MONTREAL — Transat Distribution Canada has introduced a comprehensive bilingual training program designed to help TDC franchise and affiliate agency owners navigate the process of business succession.
As TDC notes, whether it’s a case of preparing to sell or become owners for the first time, the succession training program offers a structured, expert-led approach to navigating this crucial transition.
“Selling or acquiring a travel agency is more than just a transaction; it’s a deeply personal and strategic decision,” said Dianne Jackson, TDC’s Director of Franchise and Affiliate Members. “It’s not just about logistics, but also about legacy. We’ve developed a program that reflects the real challenges and opportunities of succession, with practical advice and an understanding of the emotional aspect of this type of transaction (both selling and acquiring), to help owners move forward with clarity and confidence.”
The bilingual online training course is 3.5 hours for the selling component and 5 hours for the acquiring component. The course was developed in collaboration with Transat’s teams of legal, financial, and human resources professionals, and shaped by contributions from agency owners through the TDC Lab think-tank.
Training covers everything from operational management to marketing, legal compliance, and talent development.
Jackson added that although the program is comprehensive, it’s not a substitute for personalized advice from professionals such as lawyers or tax specialists, who are often called upon to assist with this type of process. “But we are certainly achieving our goal of presenting the essential elements to consider in this important step and providing our owners with ideas for action and reflection.”
The program includes …
- A component for owners in selling mode, which includes valuable tools on financial, legal, and human resources preparation, not to mention the emotional aspect of such a transaction.
- A component for new owners, aimed at both future owners and those who have recently become owners
- Legal and financial preparation: Contracts, compliance and the essentials of budgeting and financial management
- Human resources and leadership: Building and managing high-performing teams
- Marketing and growth strategies: Positioning agencies for long-term success
- Emotional intelligence: Managing the personal impact of ownership transitions
“This initiative reinforces TDC’s commitment to giving its network of franchisees and affiliates the tools they need to thrive, not only today, but also in the years to come. Because, as always, our goal is to be there for them when they need us, to support them,” said Jackson.
