Agents also had the opportunity at yesterday’s event to network directly with WestJet reps, hotel partners, tourism boards, and friends and colleagues in the virtual networking lounge and breakout sessions.
Prizes were up for grabs too, with the collection of Xperience Points (XPs) throughout all areas of the show.
Chuck Crowder, Vice-President of Sales, Distribution, WestJet Vacations and the Contact Centre, welcomed agents, saying that the interactive virtual event was designed to offer the latest information about WestJet’s network products and WestJet Vacations destinations “so that you can continue to promote travel with confidence.”
Added Crowder: “We’re excited to announce new destinations and increased flight frequencies along with premium and business cabin features, all designed to elevate your clients’ travel experience and to take them further.”
WestJet has introduced enhanced digital self-serve options and a refreshed Travel Agent Resource Site. Yesterday’s event also offered more info on WestJet Rewards benefits, and corporate program updates.
Crowder struck a note of optimism and brand leadership in his opening remarks to agents yesterday.
“As your clients and our guests return to the skies, we want to reassure you that ‘Safety Above All’ is more than just a saying. It’s our promise to you and our guests,” he said.
WestJet’s Travel Ready series of short videos, packed with helpful tips about health and safety protocols, are ideal for sharing with mutual clients, to give peace of mind every step of the way, he added.
Crowder also underlined WestJet’s commitment to travel agents.
“As a company built on care and connection, our travel trade partners are important to us. We recognize that the past 18 months have been hard for you and we value your partnership and consider you to be an extension of our sales force,” he said.
Returning to a more robust network after the past 18 months doesn’t happen without a few bumps along the way. Crowder also addressed WestJet’s recent operational issues.
“Our recent operational disruptions are not representative of the WestJet you know and love,” he told agents. “You deserve better and be assured these challenges are temporary.”
Crowder finished with a thank you to all of WestJet’s and WestJet Vacations’ travel agent partners: “On behalf of all of us at WestJet we’re thankful for your support and for allowing us to celebrate 25 years of connecting you and your clients to the places you all love to go. Thank you for your trust and support. We hope you enjoy this interactive virtual expo and we wish you a strong and successful booking season.”
