Jules Verne was founded in 1978 by Philip Morrell, who is widely acknowledged as having changed the way consumers travel and now offers nearly 200 tours, including river cruises, for those looking to travel with a small group of 12-15 like-minded companions.
Traditionally a direct to consumer brand, Jules Verne is now looking to build strong trade relationships to bridge the gap and to kick start 2023, it has signed with Hays, Travel Counsellors and The Midcounties Co-operative (Co-op Travel) offering a competitive commission level.
The escorted group tours specialist is also actively inviting other agents to get in touch and has set up a dedicated email address, phone number and trade Facebook page:
T: 020 3993 6042
E: agents@vjv.co.uk
Facebook Group - Jules Verne Agents
The trade team is being headed up by Abbey Renshaw, Business Development and Communications Manager – aka the ‘face of the trade’ for Jules Verne. Abbey joined the company in 2018 as an Agency Sales Manager, and was promoted to Business Development and Communications Manager in 2022. Abbey has previously held roles at Kuoni, Thomas Cook and Bristol Airport.
Abbey Renshaw commented on the trade launch saying: “Now more than ever before, we are seeing the desire for experiential and genuine personal travel experiences. Through this exciting new venture, we’ll be able to bring our offering to a wider audience. I passionately believe in the power of the trade and we recognise that customers place their trust in their travel agent and that agents stake their reputation in their choice of partners, which is why we are taking this new era for Jules Verne very seriously”.
In her role, Abbey will be spending 2023 visiting trade agents and attending key travel events and conferences in order to help educate agents on Jules Verne. Those looking to sell Jules Verne can also join the Facebook group to get tips and insider information that clients will love.
Debbie O’Neill, General Manager, who took over the helm at Jules Verne in early 2022 adds: “I started my career as a travel agent and with 30 years’ experience in this business, I can see how different things are post-pandemic. People are different. Travel has changed.
We know first-hand that travelling in a small group is about sharing experiences and making memories - not just trawling around predictable places in predictable ways, alongside predictable people. I am making it my mission to offer thoughtful travel experiences to the fore and we look forward to sharing that with our travel industry partners”
India is Jules Verne’s most popular destination, closely followed by Egypt and Italy. Key feeder markets are London, South East and the North West.
Abbey’s role at Jules Verne also includes acting as a brand ambassador and hosting the travel podcast Passepartout – People & Places where she talks to people from around the globe about their lives and their love of travel. Abbey comments on the podcast: “I really do have the best job in the world!”
