Although mainstream cruse lines are only seeing single-digit growth in US capacity overall in 2019, travel franchise business Dream Vacations is above this industry average with its double-digit capacity growth thanks to its technology investments, increased engagement and other advancements made in 2018.
Brand Senior Vice President Debbie Fiorino says the company exceeded its goals and hit record sales numbers over the course of 2018.
Cutting-edge Technology
This work-from-home travel brand has been investing in technology so franchisees can work more efficiently and spend more time focusing on clients and building their businesses. In 2018, the brand upgraded its consumer website to make it more user-friendly, and they have since seen a triple increase in the number of bookings made online when compared to the same time period in 2017. Its Group Registrations tool was enhanced to take credit card payments and increase flexibility, and its IT team issued 18 releases based on popular demand and feedback from clients and franchisees alike.
Unique Marketing strategies and a Culture of Caring
In addition to forging partnerships with other brands, Dream Vacations is now going to cover the cost of direct mail marketing to clients for franchisees in 2019. It also expanded its Virtual Cruise Event program to include an event specific to luxury cruises.
Engaging with its agents has been a top priority for the brand, and Dustin Jones was named Vice President of Engagement to help further the brand's connection with its franchisees. Jones now leads open-forum calls on a weekly basis for around 1,500 agents and has held more than 50 in-person events. The brand also launched its first-ever franchisee appreciation week.
Connecting to the Community
In 2018, franchisees, the corporate team and agents donated close to $120,000--the equivalent of 24 wishes--to the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Its veteran program was also expanded to include Gold Star Families, and the brand awarded free franchises to seven veterans as part of its acclaimed "Operation Vetrepreneur" program. Military Times ranked the travel brand number one on its top franchise opportunities for vets list for the fourth year straight, and it also earned the second spot on Entrepreneur's list.
Home-based travel brand Dream Vacations, part of industry titan World Travel Holdings, is currently seeking people who are passionate about travel and helping others. The initial investment for one of these franchise opportunities is $9,800 for those new to the industry, and there are incentives available for qualified veterans, first responders and other community service providers.