Uniworld Australia Offers Floriade 2012

John Molinaro Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has embraced social media with the launch of a dedicated Australian Facebook page, hoping to entice future business and giving local agents easy access to up-to-date, country specific information in a bid to leverage business from competitors. To coincide with the launch, Uniworld Australia are asking fans to ‘Like’ the new Facebook page to win a Parisian Winter Cruise. The competition, open to domestic travel agents, is also expected to help increase sales through connections between agents and past, prospective clients. Speaking at the launch of Uniworld’s 2012 Europe and Russia brochure, General Manager Australia, John Molinaro said agents who received the brochure last week would immediately be able to spot the high-end quality of the product, which now incorporates all gratuities, a commissionable bonus for agents. “The way we have positioned the brand, you know it’s a five star product that’s different,” Mr Molinaro said. Two new itineraries connected to Floriade have been incorporated into the 176 page brochure, taking the total to 32 itineraries ranging from 8 to 32 days. A new “Choice is Yours” programme offers seasoned travellers the option of alternate shore excursions off the beaten track, while the new “Go Active” or “Gentle Walking” programmes caters to each person’s touring style preference. Mr Molinaro stressed how Uniworld’s unique quality and service due to their association to Red Carnation Hotels was still a fundamental aspect when educating consumers and agents alike. Off the cuff of their $100 million investment to the fleet in 2010-11, Uniworld’s last three ships to undergo refurbishments are expected to be completed in time for new itineraries and possible destinations in 2012-13. “The ships speak to our relationship with Red Carnation, which will allow passengers to see the common threads between the brands with service being the key,” Mr Molinaro said. “We have to provide what the consumer wants, and we feel they need to understand how beautiful and opulent the ships are.” Forecasting for more inter-generational travel in upcoming seasons, Mr Molinaro said it has already resulted in a change of demographics on board, producing a renewed image and perception of boutique river cruising versus ocean liners. “It’s a brand building exercise, and we have come an enormous way in Australia in the past 3 years,” he said. According to Mr Molinaro, Australia remains as a key driver for Uniworld as one of their top five markets globally, resulting in increasing investment to sustain growth with full-time sales managers now appointed in each State. “There is so much noise in the market place in this segment that we need to educate the trade on our product so they understand the difference,” Mr Molinaro said. “The fundamental message we send to them is to book clients in early due to our limited capacity on board.” To join Uniworld on Facebook visit www.facebook.com/uniworldcruisesaustralia and click ‘Like’. For more information on Uniworld visit www.uniworldcruises.com.au