Long-haul tour operator Kuoni has unveiled the first stage of a dynamic packaging function on its website, covering USA and Canada, with other regions expected to follow in the coming weeks. The new website will allow users to enter a list of preferred locations, desired mode of transport, dates, type of accommodation and excursions. The…
North America heads Kuoni dynamic packaging overhaul
Long-haul tour operator Kuoni has unveiled the first stage of a dynamic packaging function on its website, covering USA and Canada, with other regions expected to follow in the coming weeks.
The new website will allow users to enter a list of preferred locations, desired mode of transport, dates, type of accommodation and excursions.
The move is being hailed as a landmark for the 100-year-old company as previously its online booking system had only featured existing brochure references.
Managing director for Kuoni UK, Sue Biggs, claimed the new functionality is a “revolution in long haul travel”, hitting out its rivals in the same market that have failed to provide “sheer flexibility, choice and levels of expertise” as the new Kuoni service.
“A completely personalised, tailor-made itinerary can be created in moments, supported by the specialist, expert knowledge for which Kuoni is justifiably renowned,” she added.
“Clients and agents will become ‘masters of their own universe’ as they select and build online their own complex holidays across North America for now, whilst the site for Australasia and Round the World will be launched in early February.”
The number of online bookings by travel agents to Kuoni has accelerated in recent years, from only 3% in 2004 to over 50%, according to recent figures.
The latest move by the operator comes as it celebrates its centenary year with a major push across its online operation.
Kuoni’s senior manager for e-business, Matt Rooke, said: “The key difference with this site is its open-ended nature, allowing customers to literally create and book something precisely to their own requirements.”
