Thomas Cook (India) and subsidiary SOTC Travel have launched a novel
travel agent model which links work-from-home associates, such as
homemakers or retirees, with their closest branch travel agency and
backs them with training, tools and technology.
Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel said the new model is unique in
“providing individuals, irrespective of age, an opportunity to
supplement their income while working from home without being bound by
the need to report to offices or keep time schedules”.
The Travel Business Associate model is based on personal connections and references with no fixed cost.
“That lends itself perfectly to rapid scalability, especially in a
post-pandemic recovery period,” said Abraham Alapatt, president and
group executive Thomas Cook (India) and SOTC Travel.
An associate who refers a prospect to the local branch can earn a
variable commission based on conversion of referrals into a sale.
“In an era witnessing rapid rise of the gig economy where individuals
seek flexibility, we are emphasising on creating equal opportunities.
“Nearly 50% of our Travel Business Associate workforce comprise of
women – new mothers, homemakers, self-made women entrepreneurs; equally
retired individuals, small business owners, and mutual fund
distributors,” Alapatt said.