Island Cruises beefs up sales force

**Ally** · 08-21-2006, 01:12 PM

Island Cruises has redesigned its brochure and expanded its sales team.

The second edition 2007 brochure has been re-written to make searching for and booking a cruise simpler following research with customers and agents.

The release of next year's programme coincides with the unveiling of a new look sales team including two newly-created roles of national sales managers, supported by six regional sales managers and two sales support co-ordinators.

The national sales managers replace the role of national account manager, with a broadened responsibility.

The line says a particular focus is on developing business with cruise specialists, multiples and consortia.

Sales director Leslie Peden said: "These newly created positions facilitate a more unified approach to our account management at both national and regional level, ensuring that we as a company continue to set high standards."

Meanwhile, marketing director Andy Furlong, explaining the new-look brochure, said: "The brochure has been totally redesigned and given a contemporary look that will last, incorporating new photography throughout, whilst still communicating our relaxed, friendly and informal ethos. One of the biggest difference agents will notice, other than the general tone, is the ease in which they can now navigate around the brochure."

The cover now contains a gatefold page with a step-by-step guide to booking a cruise. Each step is colour coded to match the corresponding section within the brochure. Photography is new following a shoot this summer on the Island Star.

The line's Mediterranean Explorer itinerary will takes in two new ports of call, Valencia and Genoa next summer, while the Mediterranean Discovery itinerary will visit Mahon in Menorca rather than Sète in France.

A range of early booking offers have been extended to apply to bookings made until October 31, including free all inclusive upgrades on Island Escape.

(TravelMole)