Airfare? Beyond Commission? Expansion?

This week’s Friday 15, we're welcoming Amy from KHM Travel! Let’s have some fun, plus some questions to discuss this Friday at 12 pm CST. Join us! With airfare remaining one of the biggest travel expenses, what are some legitimate ways travel advisors can maximize value for their clients? Are there particular consolidators, supplier partnerships, or booking strategies you recommend?If you were building a travel business today focused on Europe, Middle East and Asia, which host agency features would you prioritize beyond commission splits?I am a travel agent (since 2012) and own my own agency (since 2016). I am thinking of bringing on another agent and need to fully understand the differences and implications to both me as well as to the agent between me having this agent as an (a) employee, (b) and independent contractor, or (c) me being a host agency and them being a host agent.RESOURCES:https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/lary-neron-airfare-consultant (Podcast episode with an advisor who books air only and charges $50-500 fees per ticket.)Great article about top 10 things you should be asking your host /considerations when picking your host - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/ytc-q3-2023What is a sub agent - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-sub-agent