Travel agent commissions at WorldCell have increased about 300% over the past three years, says Ellie Khouri, director of corporate marketing.
“Travel agents now account for up to 30% of our business,” he said.
WorldCell, a Maryland-based supplier of global mobile phones, raised their commission rates last year to $25 for each phone.
Mr Khouri says travel agents who want to rent phones get them at a 50% discount. The company also has various promotions to travel agents, with the current one an offer of a television for 10 rentals in three months.
“If they (agents) do 40 rentals in three months, we offer an even bigger TV — the biggest one available,” said Mr. Khousi.
Unlike similar companies, WorldCell does not charge a deposit or require users to make a minimum number of calls.
“Most companies charge $400 to $500, but we feel customers should not have to pay that,” said Mr Khouri.
WorldCell phones are offered for either specific countries or for geographic destinations such as Europe. A typical price is $40 for a week (with $35 for shipping).
The demand for mobile telephones has grown “dramatically,” Khouri said. He attributes the growth in part to a growing awareness of the service.
“People became more particular after 9-11. They all want to remain in communications with others,” he said.
Report by David Wilkening
