“25 per cent Boost in Commissions for Travel Agents by IHCL” Puneet Chhatwal
Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), was a key figure at the 39th annual Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) Convention held in Bhopal, where he was inducted into the esteemed IATO Hall of Fame. This award acknowledged his remarkable service and significant contributions to the travel and tourism sector.
In his address following the honour, Chhatwal announced five strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration with the travel trade industry, highlighting IHCL’s strong commitment to the growth of the tourism sector.
The first initiative that IHCL has taken is to increase the commissions for travel agents from 10 per cent to 12.5 per cent with a notable 25 per cent boost aimed at strengthening its relationship with the tourism community. The commission is calculated on the BAR rates (Best Available Rates) as per IHCL’s website. Further, Chhatwal emphasised on the need to provide better value by the travel agents, “We understand the changing needs of your clients.” So, through the next initiative, instead of the previous EP (European Plan), room rates will now be available on a CP (Continental Plan) basis, inclusive of breakfast), on the IATO special negotiated rates, offering travellers a more exciting experience. To offer agents increased flexibility, IHCL will now allow cancellations of FIT (Free Independent Traveller) bookings within 48 hours at business hotels and seven days at leisure hotels and palaces. Chhatwal also announced a 25 per cent discount on the BAR rates for travel agents attending events globally at any IHCL property, both domestic and international. Lastly, IHCL promised to spend INR 20 crores over the next three years to promote inbound tourism. The investment will fund cocktail events at international travel expos, starting in New York this October, to enhance India’s tourism appeal.
Chhatwal concluded his address with a great enthusiasm for the coming future saying, “We are going great guns.”
