The survey for the final two weeks from 18 September to 1 October found that 97% of agents had seen enquiries during the fortnight – up by two percentage points on the previous fortnight’s Tracker, which had been the highest level for six months.
While 87% of agents also took bookings during the same period, which was also a rise of two points on the previous two weeks.
There was further good news for the trade, with the volume of both bookings and enquiries rising for agents: the average number of enquires went up from 23 to 28 and average bookings rose from 14 to 19.
The increase in business looks to have confirmed how the government’s latest easing of Covid-19 restrictions has finally improved consumer confidence – even if it was too late for the peak summer season.
Another key finding in the latest Tracker is the return of long-haul with both enquiries and bookings for the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Middle East rising significantly.
There has also been a surge in bookings for the US and Canada, which has doubled from the first half of September, after the Biden administration said the US would reopen to British visitors in early November. A further boost in bookings is likely once the US sets date for this reopening.
Another key finding is a resurgence of cruise bookings for agents – going up by an impressive 19 points on the previous fortnight’s Tracker.
Despite these positive trends, plenty of barriers remain for agents: many clients are still nervous about booking as they are concerned about testing and filling out the necessary online forms.
The traffic light system may have finally gone, but customers are still nervous about their destination suddenly ending up on the red list. Although this fear should hopefully recede now the red list has been cut to just seven countries from 4am on Monday (11 October).
The trade could also face a cash squeeze over the winter, with many clients not due to depart on holidays until summer 2022. Although agents are now, at least, benefiting from stronger winter 2021-22 sales (up by 14 points on the previous fortnight).
TTG’s fortnightly Travel Agent Tracker reports are a benefit of TTG+ membership. To find out more, head to ttgmedia.com/membership.
