Saturday, February 8, 2025

AGENT MASTERCLASS: How technology can boost sales

Australia’s travel and tourism industry is more competitive than ever, with businesses constantly looking for ways to stand out and attract increasingly value-conscious consumers.

With cost-of-living pressures influencing travel decisions, customers are seeking more than just a holiday – they want personalised experiences, seamless service, and compelling reasons to book.

Fortunately, advancements in technology are making it easier for travel businesses to engage potential customers, enhance their offerings, and drive sales. From AI-driven personalisation to digital signage and influencer marketing, here are four ways travel businesses can use technology to stay ahead.

Personalising the customer journey with AI

Artificial intelligence is no longer just for large corporations. AI-powered tools can personalise every stage of a traveller’s journey, from trip planning to post-travel engagement.

Intelligent chatbots can recommend customised travel packages based on user preferences, while AI-driven email campaigns can segment customer lists to ensure the right deals reach the right audience at the right time.

Mario Paez, managing director and co-founder of Planetdwellers Travel in Darlinghurst, New South Wales, says AI has transformed his business.

“I no longer need to take hours finding, then perfecting content to display. The AI tool allows me to find promotional content for every possible type of travel activity. I can search for absolutely anything, whether it’s an Antarctica Pride Cruise with a penguin video background or upcoming bus tours, I have template options in seconds that have specific images and text that is an exact match to my search,” Paez said.

By using AI to create tailored content and recommendations, travel businesses can boost engagement and turn potential customers into confirmed bookings.

Embracing digital signage for real-time marketing

For travel businesses with a physical presence, digital signage is an effective way to capture attention and drive sales. Studies show digital signage can increase brand recognition and recall by up to 47 per cent, while real-time updates allow businesses to respond to market shifts instantly.

A sudden cold snap? Promote winter getaway packages. An unexpected flight sale? Display last-minute deals. Digital signage, offered by companies such as Mandoe Media, allows businesses of all sizes to quickly update content without requiring technical expertise.

Placing digital displays in high-traffic areas such as hotel lobbies, storefront windows, or café waiting areas can highlight promotions and encourage bookings. Businesses should experiment with visuals, videos, and messaging to see what resonates with their audience.

Optimising mobile booking platforms

Modern travellers expect seamless digital experiences, so ensuring that websites and mobile booking platforms are user-friendly, fast, and secure is crucial. Features such as one-click bookings, mobile wallet payments, and real-time pricing adjustments can improve conversions and reduce drop-offs.

Businesses can also integrate QR codes into their digital signage, brochures, and promotional materials, allowing customers to scan and book instantly. Secure payment gateways and SSL certificates are essential to building trust and ensuring a smooth transaction process.

Leveraging social media and influencer partnerships

Today’s consumers are heavily influenced by social media, making influencer partnerships and user-generated content valuable tools for travel businesses. Authentic, experience-driven content feels more engaging than traditional advertising, helping businesses build trust with potential customers.

Displaying live social media feeds or user-generated highlight reels on digital screens can inspire travellers and encourage bookings. Businesses can also collaborate with influencers to showcase unique experiences, tapping into new audiences and increasing brand awareness.

Turning technology into a competitive advantage

By integrating AI, digital signage, mobile-friendly platforms, and social media strategies, Australian travel businesses can create a more engaging and seamless experience for customers. Those who embrace technology will be best positioned to attract and retain travellers, ensuring long-term success in an evolving market.

Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Travel Monitor has been delivering the First News of the Day to the travel industry since 2009 and continues the tradition of only engaging experienced writers, editors and other professionals to source and create Travel Monitor content.

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