Travel advisors hail ‘new era’, TC…

Travel Counselors is preparing to launch “TC Co-pilot” after a year of research into the technology, heralding a “new era”.

Jon Bauer, the agency’s chief technology officer, described the new tool as a virtual assistant that will “change” the way agents work with clients.

Powered by Phoenix, it will Create tailored recommendations Can be shared with customers.

“We think you’re going to like this,” Ball told delegates at the agency’s annual meeting. “This is a new beginning, a new era. Our platform has access to over a million properties around the world. This will allow you to discover them.”

He encouraged agents to express interest in the tool, adding that it would be rolled out in the coming weeks.

“At Trip Advisor, we’re embracing artificial intelligence, but we’re balancing it with the best personal touch,” he said.

“We are committed to bringing you the best technology and leading the way, not following it. It starts with you and the relationships. Technology starts with you, it doesn’t replace you.”

The agency is also developing an interactive offer creation tool designed to “bring itineraries to life.”

Customers will be able to view practical information and advice in a way that makes them “immersed” in their travel plans, Ball said.

“You save time and effort and provide a real service to your customers,” he adds. “We are currently piloting this feature with 50 travel advisors and have received fantastic feedback. We aim to get this message out to everyone around the world in the coming weeks.”

Bauer said Phenix has made improvements over the past 12 months, lowering its average performance speed from 4 seconds to less than 2 seconds.

A total of 3,500 new features have been added to the platform, and five new accommodation providers and three new airlines have been added.

Ball said there would be a “strong pipeline” of additional airlines added over the next six months.

Disney Cruise Line and Virgin Cruises have been added to the cruise portfolio, while an increased focus on ancillary facilities and attractions will include the launch of TUI Group’s Musement product next month.

Travel Advisor told delegates the company invests £16m a year in technology.