Classic Collection completes transition back to 'one brand, one platform' model
James ChappleClassic Collection has re-emerged with a new, simplified operating model based around a single trade platform promising agents "more product choice and booking flexibility than ever" – including being able to set their own rates of commission.
After the trade-only brand was acquired by On the Beach Group in 2018, its operations were divided between its full-service tour operator arm and a simpler self-service online portal.
However, it was confirmed earlier this year the two operations would be consolidated to create a single B2B brand, a move that saw chief executive Andy Freeth and product and commercial director Alex Gavalda leave the business.
Si Morris-Green has since been named Classic Collection director B2B and has led the transition, which has seen Classic host face-to-face events with more than 150 trade partners across the country. More than 300 also joined a recent webinar giving them a preview of the new look Classic.
"Agents have reacted well to the fact we now have more single-centre product than ever before on sale 24/7 via an easy-to-use and speedy trade-only portal," said Morris-Green.
"Capitalising on the growth in short-haul airline capacity for 2024, our new platform offers a wide choice of airlines from more than 20 UK airports and a selection of resort transfer and luggage options. Commission can be adjusted by the agent during the booking process to help close a booking.
"Our new portal is also the gateway to our tailor-made by Classic Collection sub-site with details of twin-centre, boutique cruise, rail and premium luxury holidays, which can be booked over the phone with our travel experts.
"We’ve streamlined this area of our product offering to concentrate more on those areas in which we have always excelled."
Morris-Green said the operator remained "100% trade-focused", adding the platform already featured more than 5,000 hotels across 78 destinations.
The relaunch is being supported by £50 discounts for summer 2024 and £75 for summer 2025 with no minimum spend requirement. All bookings made during June will be entered into a daily draw giving agents the chance to win a £50 Classic Collection black card.
"I’d like to thank our agent partners for their understanding as we’ve embarked on this exciting new venture," Morris-Green added. "Thanks are also owed to the entire team at Classic Collection, who have worked tirelessly to deliver our new one brand and one platform ahead of schedule.
"More than ever before, Classic Collection will support agents to grow their business. We count customers in the thousands rather than the millions. This smaller scale showcases the enhanced customer service which has always been associated with the Classic Collection brand."
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