It got me thinking that this also applies to the travel industry.  As with the school term, it’s an important time of the year for the travel industry to take stock as we reach the end of the first quarter of the calendar year. And while there have been some extremely challenging times for the industry, the general report is overall very good.  

Certainly at Funway our Easter bookings are looking positive this year, with sales up by 12% year-on-year. But we can’t be complacent; we can’t rest on our laurels. We know that what we did last year, our competitors will try and copy, so it’s important to always try to move the agenda on.  Today, more than ever, there is no denying the reality that all travel companies face: Where we fail to innovate, others will not.

These are some of the challenges which I believe the summer term will present the travel industry with:

The ongoing advance of digitization:
Technology is fuelling a more demanding traveller who increasingly expects to be able to plan, tailor and book their holiday all from their smartphone.  I know I couldn’t be without mine!

Brexit:
At least in the medium to long term, Brexit could affect changes in consumer confidence and uncertainty over foreign exchange rate movements.  Both of these are certainly on our agenda.  
 
Travel Package Directive:
With the new Travel Package Directive around the corner in 2018, we all should be reviewing our business models and ensuring we adequately protect ourselves through clear trading terms with customers and suppliers. Insurance policies and covers will also need to be considered.

Cyber security and data privacy:
Every travel company holds personal data, including customer details and staff and supplier information. The rules governing data protection are changing and we need to be prepared.

Shifting traveller priorities:
Fuelled partly as a result of Brexit, we expect an increase in demand for all-inclusive offerings from currency-conscious customers.  With all challenges, the focus must be on how adaptable you are as a business and how you will rise to the challenge of the issues. Flexibility is also key to being prepared to cope with the challenges ahead and the importance of being as independent as possible.  This is very much Funway’s ethos, with our team embracing new roles or new tasks expected of them in these changing times.
 
My teacher always used to tell me to “take a deep breathe” before starting any exam and I’ve carried this through to my working career.  It’s important not to panic and worry about being undermined by events beyond our control. Rather, we should embrace the mentality of carrying on regardless, and being optimistic about the future of the travel trade.  

Happy Easter everyone and keep up the good work!