In recent years, the UK online travel industry has continued to grow despite the economic headwinds. While it?s definitely the case that budgets are stretched, we?ve seen that consumers consider holidays to be a necessity rather than a luxury. Research from TravelSupermarket found that, on average, Brits are planning to take three holidays this year. Travel companies which have thrived in this period have done so by combining a value message along with standard holiday marketing.

The next few months are traditionally a key booking time in the travel industry. Agents are maximising on the lates market, and it?s also the perfect excuse to make time to head to warmer climates ourselves. Summer in Glasgow is not to be relied on for a Corona in the sun on a summer afternoon, not unless you own a cagoule. The first May bank holiday also tends to marks the start of conference season. A brilliant opportunity to network, make new contacts and attend industry talks about the latest travel trends and industry updates.

Today, travel companies looking to retain clientele and ensure customers? loyalty have to go through several challenges.

The cruise and ferry industries may enjoy a different customer profile and face different competitive challenges but there is one underpinning goal that they both share: the sale of ancillary products (from destination excursions to onboard meals) can mean the difference between profit and loss on any single journey. Bet Maguire, Senior Analyst, Maxymiser, outlines the importance of online content and customer journey optimisation to drive up revenues.

With the new pension freedoms coming into force this month, only 20% of over-55s are planning to take up George Osbornes offer to cash in their pension pots early according to a new report released by Warner Leisure Hotels, underpinned by consumer research from market intelligence agency, Mintel.

Over the past decade, the world has experienced a technological revolution.