TRAVELSAVERS Canada Survey Names Direct Bookings and Staffing Shortage as Top Challenges

According to a new survey from TRAVELSAVERS Canada, the greatest challenge travel advisors face is competition from suppliers accepting direct bookings.

The survey polled TRAVELSAVERS Canada agency owners and managers on their greatest pain points. Participants took the survey from August 12 to 16, 2024.  

Competition from suppliers who accept direct bookings was in the top spot, being named by 54% of those polled. 

“Suppliers who prioritize direct bookings over the travel advisor network are missing the bigger picture,” said Jane Clementino, senior vice president and general manager, TRAVELSAVERS Canada. “Those who support agencies understand that clients who book through advisors not only enjoy enhanced travel experiences but also tend to invest more in their journey.”

Competition from online came in third, with 33% of those surveyed naming OTAs. The survey results did not identify other potential competitors – namely AI and other agencies – as concerns.

Travel advisor shortage and economic outlook

The agencies surveyed also identified the travel advisor shortage as one of the industry’s greatest challenges: Recruiting and hiring advisors was named by 44% of those polled. Additionally, 11% said they are concerned about handling their workload of client bookings while being short-staffed.

Most agencies are considering growing this year, with 44% answering they are planning to add staff advisors this year and 26% stating they might.

Agency owners and managers also expressed concerns about the rising cost of travel (31%) and economic concerns (13%) impacting travel sales; however, Clementino argued the industry’s outlook is strong.   

“Even in the face of current market uncertainties, we are seeing growth for 2024 and beyond,” said Clementino. “As we move through this year, we’re seeing substantial momentum across key segments, with several showing double-digit growth. This builds on an already strong performance in 2023, and our forecast for 2025 is really encouraging.”