Kuoni Connect will go live on 18 November, providing agents tools, offers, learning and "AI-driven support", as well as new ways to contact the operator – including via WhatsApp.
The launch follows "extensive consultation with trade partners", Kuoni claims, while head of trade partnerships Sarah Weetman characterised it as "a reimagining of how we show up for trade partners".
"We’ve listened to what our partners need – smarter tools, easier access to content and more personalised support," Weetman continued. "Kuoni Connect delivers all this and demonstrates our commitment to building trust, loyalty and long-term growth with the trade.”
Agents can pre-register for the platform from Tuesday 4 November, and those who do will be entered into a draw to win one of five ESPA advent calendars.
Kuoni Connect is a new trade platform from the operator (Credit: Kuoni)
Kuoni said its consultation with trade partners revealed that while agents value the brand's reputation and personalised service, they found its digital tools and technology lacking.
Central to the launch is Kora, an AI-powered sales coach able to answer questions and provide insights in real-time. Kora will initially focus on helping agents sell Kuramathi Maldives, a Kuoni exclusive, but will be updated to assist with other properties and destinations in future.
The new platform is built around tools designed to make it easier for agents to work with Kuoni, bringing together learning resources, marketing content, news, offers and booking tools in one centralised location.
A new learning lounge will allow agents to expand their knowledge of the operator's product (Credit: Kuoni)
A new "Learning Lounge" will help agents tell the story of the Kuoni brand, and work towards becoming an Kuoni Insider and later an expert. Destination-specific modules will be added next year.
Kuoni Studio, meanwhile, provides instant access to inspirational promotional content and marketing materials in a range of formats to suite agents' need.
A new News Hub will ensure agents are kept up-to-date with the latest updates and insights from Kuoni, and a new Support Desk function – allowing agents to connect via WhatsApp – will allow for quicker, more personal interactions with the Kuoni team.
Future ambitions include creating a dynamic data hub which can be tailored to each individual trade partner's needs.
