The Weekly Compass: Travel Industry Insights for Independent Consultants

Edition: Sunday 17 August 2025

Hello Agents!

Summer’s energy is shifting toward savvy strategy. Despite challenging heatwaves and geopolitical tensions, the market shows resilience—and fresh openings. Here’s your up-to-date industry compass to guide your bookings, bolster margins, and keep clients confidently planning their next escapes.

Industry Snapshot

• TUI Surges Ahead Despite Hurdles
  In Q3 (to 30 June), TUI lifted revenue by 7.1% to nearly €6.2 billion—despite a 2% drop in bookings caused by heatwaves and Middle East tensions. They offset this with an average 3% price hike, delivering €321 million in underlying EBIT (38% year-on-year), and raised their full-year earnings outlook to 9–11%. Egypt, Spain, and Greece nailed sales, with winter bookings already strong and promising city break demand emerging. 
• Cruise & Experiences Fuel Growth
  TUI’s cruise division posted a striking 56% lift in earnings, thanks to new ships and robust demand. Its experiences arm also contributed significantly, proving the power of diversification. 
• Celebrity-Endorsed Scheme Sparks Alarm
  Investigations reveal that InteleTravel—a travel scheme promoted by TV stars—left many young mums hundreds of pounds out of pocket, despite promises of income. With 92% of agents earning just £32 in 2024 yet paying high fees, the scheme raises serious ethical flags. 

Consultant Opportunity

Capitalize on winter city and cruise offers.

TUI’s results show winter holidays—particularly in value destinations like Egypt and popular European cities—are already selling well. Plug into this momentum by marketing cosy off-season city breaks and value-led winter escapes. Pair them with “experience extras” (wine tastings, city tours, steaks and castles) to boost appeal and your commission.

If cruises are your wheelhouse, consider spotlighting new itineraries or experiences-rich packages. Many clients are eager for curated, experiential travel—and TUI’s numbers show you're not alone in that space.

Skill of the Week

Anchor conversations in reassurance—“Why book now?”

Clients often hesitate due to uncertainty or perceived risks. Combat this by:

1. Acknowledging their concern (“I know it feels like you can wait…”).
2. Highlighting protection (“Booking through me includes ATOL/PTS protection, plus flexible changes.”).
3. Framing value (“Your experience gains peace of mind—and I'll proactively manage any hiccups.”).

Turn hesitation into confidence—and hesitation into bookings.

Motivation Boost

“When challenges rise, the best consultants do more than cope—they help clients feel safe, savvy, and excited to travel.”

Jamie Wake

Wrapping Up

This week, your edge lies in well-timed value offers, destination-savvy promotions, and building trust amid uncertainty. Keep reading the signs, blend authenticity with reassurance, and you’ll navigate this season with finesse.

With you, every step of the journey — Ava Wake

Further reading

Financial Times

Tui overcomes heatwaves and Middle East conflict as profits rise

4 days ago

thesun.ie

How 'shady' travel firm flogged by TV stars like Vicky Pattison & Jess Wright is leaving young mums £100s out of pocket

Yesterday