Virtuoso, a leading travel agency network, has reported a significant increase in sales, showcasing a strong recovery in the luxury travel sector. The company announced that its sales have surged by 213% compared to 2019, the year before the pandemic struck. This growth is particularly impressive considering the challenges faced by the travel industry during the global health crisis.
According to Tourism Economics, spending for outbound leisure travel, which is Virtuoso’s specialty, has also seen a substantial increase of 126% this year compared to 2019. This data reflects a growing confidence among travelers to explore the world once again and indulge in luxury experiences curated by Virtuoso.
During the first half of 2024, Virtuoso reported a 14% increase in sales compared to the previous year, further solidifying its position as a leader in luxury travel sales. Executive Vice President David Kolner expressed pride in Virtuoso’s ability to outperform the industry and continue to drive growth in the luxury travel market.
Virtuoso Travel Week, often referred to as the “Fashion Week of Travel,” kicked off at prestigious venues such as the Bellagio Resort & Casino, Aria Resort & Casino, Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and Vdara Hotel & Spa. The event attracted over 4,700 attendees, including top producers and new advisors from around the world.
This year, Virtuoso implemented changes to enhance the event experience. For the first time, advisors had to apply to attend Virtuoso Travel Week, ensuring a curated mix of attendees that included both established top producers and emerging talent. Additionally, the event did not feature assigned appointments between advisors and suppliers, allowing for more flexibility in scheduling meetings and activities.
Sustainability took center stage at Virtuoso Travel Week, with a focus on promoting responsible travel practices. Virtuoso recognized several suppliers and member agencies for their sustainability initiatives, highlighting the importance of incorporating environmental and social considerations into travel planning. The company emphasized the business opportunities that sustainable travel presents for advisors, as affluent travelers increasingly seek meaningful and eco-conscious experiences.
Virtuoso’s Impact Report on Sustainable Travel revealed that a majority of advisors view selling sustainable travel as a lucrative business opportunity. Clients are also willing to increase their spending on trips that align with sustainability principles, indicating a growing demand for eco-friendly travel options.
In light of recent anti-tourist incidents worldwide, Virtuoso emphasized the importance of promoting respectful and responsible tourism. CEO Matthew Upchurch urged advisors to remind travelers to be mindful of their impact on local communities and to support destinations that prioritize sustainable tourism practices. By advocating for ethical travel behavior, advisors can contribute to creating a more positive and sustainable travel industry.
Overall, Virtuoso’s success in driving sales growth, promoting sustainability, and fostering a culture of responsible travel underscores the company’s commitment to excellence in the luxury travel sector. As the industry continues to recover from the impact of the pandemic, Virtuoso remains at the forefront of innovation and leadership in delivering exceptional travel experiences for discerning travelers worldwide.
