Advantage Business Travel bosses have decided not to invite agents from rival consortia to its October conference, after members argued against the move.
The conference has traditionally been only for Advantage members, but last year, in a departure from the norm, some Worldchoice business agents were invited, amid closer ties as part of the Triton partnership.
But some Advantage agents felt attendance by Worldchoice hindered debate, according to business travel director Norman Gage.
He said: “Members felt they weren’t so comfortable with sharing experiences. A lot of the conference is about members getting up on stage and talking about best practice and they didn’t feel comfortable doing that last year.”
However, Gage has allocated more time this year to the ‘speed dating’ appointment system linking agents with suppliers.
He said: “Last year, it was two hours, this year, it will last for three. The suppliers asked for more time – they see it as a major benefit.
“With suppliers cutting back on their field sales forces, this is an opportunity for them to see over 60 travel management businesses in one sitting.”
Over 150 delegates have so far signed up to the conference, which takes place from October 7-9 at the Swissotel, Zurich.
By Lisa James
