This is a common discussion I’ve been having with operators over the last few years. The typical reaction is that’s too hard to generate an accurate price in real-time and also there’s a fear that online booking will facilitate shopping around for the cheapest price.

The reality is the Motorcoach is not seen as a viable alternative for a large percentage of the population. In fact the figure of 7-9% is quoted regularly at conferences about the percentage of North Americas that use Motorcoaches. So why is it that the remaining at worst 81% don’t ever use your services?

1)   Lack of Awareness

2)   Unfashionable image of a “Motorcoach” (an old Bus)

3)   Not marketing to new markets / customers (too much focus on older/traditional audience)

4)   Inability to get a fast quote/price

5)   All of the above and more…

I see the Motorcoach Council are trying to coordinate an industry wide campaign with their “Motorcoachified”  message which is a step in the right direction on the awareness front but….

Internet Sales coming soon

It’s not enough the industry needs to change how it sells to the new customers who will what the convenience of real-time booking before they see the Motorcoach as a real alternative to taking a car, train or flight.

It can happen but does the industry what this? – We think at TravelManager that 2010 is the year for it happen

Regards,

Eamonn

**Not convinced of the benefits? Here’s a good article from the LCT (Limousine, Charter & Tour) website: http://www.lctmag.com/features/features-story.cfm?id=1537

Tags: Booking Online, Charter Reservations, Charter Sales, Internet Sales coming, Motorcoach Council, online booking, Real Time Reservations, TravelManager, TravelManager 2010