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MSC putting faith in travel agents
Italian based cruise line MSC said they will focus on strong travel agent relationships to increase awareness for the growing cruise line in the US market.
The company recently announced an order for two new ships in addition to two other vessels under construction, and according to MSC Cruises USA president Richard Sasso there is an option for up to seven new ships over the next five years.
Sasso says although MSC has been in the North America market for a decade, awareness with US cruisers needs improving.
"We are the number one brand in Europe and also South America and we are looking to become more prominent in North America and other emerging markets," Sasso said.
"This is a very fertile ground we can tap into more aggressively but it’s not just about another ship in the Caribbean, it’s about doubling our market penetration."
Sasso believes its reputation with travel agents and cruise customers is growing after a successful season with the MSC Divina and has doubled the US based sales force as a result.
"To an emerging brand like us, we need to make sure we are the best partner for our travel agent friends; we are now are giving them the ability to earn commission on some pre-booked items," said Sasso.
The cruise line last week announced a 5% commission to agents who book prepaid spa treatments, specialty restaurants, beverages and celebration packages.
"We rely on travel agents and put our faith in the travel agent community. We want to make sure they are fully informed, compensated and respected and that will be the trigger to get the consumer awareness."
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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