2018 was not the easiest year for the industry. There were significant changes, a series of bankruptcies, and a consumer reassessment of the entire system. Customer trust is becoming paramount, and it's no longer a matter of preference or brand strength, but of real risks for all participants. Yana Muromova, Deputy General Director of ANEX Tour Russia, discusses the results of the outgoing year and forecasts for 2019.
"The desire to make the tourism industry transparent is nothing new. All of the year's significant events were the result of processes initiated in 2016 related to legislative changes. These primarily affected tour operators, and within two years, we had time to adapt to the new regulatory framework. In 2018, it was the turn of the agency sector.
A serious problem is that market changes have an irreversible impact on consumer confidence. The economic situation in the country isn't improving, people are becoming increasingly disposable, and the overall information environment isn't particularly positive. Every time a player leaves the market, there are those who suffer. But how can we assess the damage caused by the decline in trust of other tourists in tour operators and travel agents who haven't been affected?
The market has changed, as has the typical tourist. It's rare to see a live queue at an agency anymore. People are switching to online or independent booking, unwilling to be reliant on the industry's difficulties. This is often driven by the fear of losing money and not receiving the vacation they paid for. But there's another important factor here: responsibility. Not all clients are willing to fully assume it.
In 2019, these trends will continue, with the market moving toward maximum transparency and the development of direct cooperation schemes between tour operators, travel agents, and tourists. It's possible that some companies will leave, following the example of 2018, but this will create more opportunities for large suppliers. However, even market leaders won't be able to stand still and enjoy preferential treatment. They must constantly evolve, keep up with the times, and utilize all available technological solutions.
About the electronic travel voucher
Tourism is becoming increasingly technologically advanced. Technology underpins global and national booking systems. Automated services are becoming the norm, and regulatory bodies are keeping pace with this process, introducing the state information system "Electronic Travel Package," which ensures tour operators fulfill their obligations to clients.
Using a unique travel voucher number, tourists will be able to track the status of their tour online. All payment and booking stages for flights and hotels will be accessible in a single, easy-to-use system. The rapidly growing travel industry requires even greater traffic, turnover, and updated information to reach its target markets. In this environment, consumers will easily obtain accurate and complete product information while minimizing financial risks. As a major market player, we are primarily interested in launching a mechanism that will lead to market transparency.
Forecasts aren't predictions or precise instructions; they're, first and foremost, personal reflections. Now, in the run-up to the New Year, I want to congratulate Travel Russian News readers on the upcoming holidays and wish each of you to preserve and carry throughout your life the ability to enjoy the little things, a sense of anticipation for magic and faith in miracles, and a desire to share celebration and love with your loved ones. Happy New Year 2019!
Source: trn-news.ru
