The Difference Between a Franchise and a Host Travel Agency

As a travel advisor, aligning yourself with a larger entity is a way to set yourself up for success. Doing so allows you to tap into an established vendor network and gain access to enhanced buying power. There are two traditional options: affiliate yourself with a host travel agency or join a franchise and start your own travel agency. While both options have benefits, it's hard to beat everything provided with a travel franchise like Cruise Planners®.

Keep reading to see why the benefits of owning a travel franchise, like Cruise Planners®, outweigh those of joining a host travel agency.
More than Just a Member
More than Just a Member
Joining a host agency means you are simply part of a membership organization. With a Cruise Planners® franchise, you can own and operate your travel business. You are the boss.
Brand Recognition
As a member of a travel agent host agency, you are not able to use the host name to represent yourself or your services and do not have built-in brand recognition. An established Cruise Planners® franchise gives you the power of brand recognition and the ability to advertise and represent yourself with the franchise brand name. This provides added value and instant credibility.
Support to Help You Grow
Support to Help You Grow

With a host agency for travel agents, technology, marketing, and support are very limited, if they are provided at all. Cruise Planners® provides robust technology tools, marketing support, ongoing training, and business development coaching to help you grow your business.

 
Make More Money

Some host companies take as much as 70% of your commissions. With a Cruise Planners® franchise, you pay a never more than 3% royalty.

Support to Help You Grow
More Transparency
More Transparency

Travel agent host agencies may not be subject to as many regulations as franchise companies and, therefore, may not disclose important details and business information to you before you join. On the other hand, franchise companies are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission. Before purchasing a franchise, we must provide full disclosure on the company’s fee structure, financial information, litigation, and more.

Proven Success

Established systems with host companies are limited, if available at all. A franchise like Cruise Planners® has been developing successful processes and tools for over 26 years. When you join, you have the use of proven systems to guide you and your business.

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