Helloworld, goodbye Jetset and HWT
A big shake-up of High Street travel brands is on the way with the move by Jetset TravelWorld to launch a new retail network called helloworld.
The new brand is likely to see the disappearance of existing brands Harvey World Travel, Travelscene, Jetset and Travelworld
JTG is also calling in one of the big guns of online travel, Orbitz Worldwide, to drive its online presence.
JTG expects the first helloworld branded store to open in the second quarter 2014.
Rival Flight Centre, with its strong bricks and mortar presence, has been going from strength to strength, announcing record profits in Australia and the UK.
JTG agents are being offered three options: to become a fully branded agent, to join as a helloworld associate member or become part of an affiliate network.
In addition, agents will be able to continue using their existing brands until the end of their franchise agreement.
JTG says it will embark on an intensive process of engagement with all existing franchisees and members over the next two months, communicating the values of helloworld and details of the new retail models.
Franchisees and members who choose to adopt helloworld will be supported via extensive training and mentoring, a focused marketing campaign, and basic lease negotiation support.
JTG chief executive Rob Gurney said: "The existing portfolio of brands has served our members and franchisees well over many years.
“However, by building critical mass under a new, contemporary brand, we will drive stronger economic alignment, build purchasing power and scale and secure key supplier relationships."
Qantas chief financial officer, Gareth Evans, said as a shareholder in Jetset Travelworld Group, "Qantas supports this new direction."
Ian Jarrett
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