MSC ‘Serving You’

MSC Cruises has introduced several new initiatives created specifically to underscore the line’s commitment to the travel agent community.

MSC True Partnerships, its long-standing travel agent program, is adding a new “Serving You” initiative that elevates MSC Cruises’ dedication to travel agents as it continues its expansion into the North American market. MSC True Partnerships has brought to the trade community MSC reward points for bookings that earn agents additional cash; paid commission on ancillary items such as shore excursions, transfers, air and hotel packages; a new and improved travel agent web site, and an engaging and successful travel agent-dedicated Facebook page.

Richard E. Sasso, president, MSC Cruises USA, described the significance of the “human factor” as the key driver behind the new “Serving You” initiatives.

“First and foremost, we are making a significant investment by more than doubling our sales force so we have greater face-to-face interaction with our travel agent partners ensuring we work together to design and develop sales strategies for our mutual success,” he said.

Field Business Development Managers are being recruited to cover states in key regions of the US and Western Canada. As well, a 20-city MSC True Partnerships Serving You Roadshow will hit key cities in the US and Canada beginning in May.

And, continuing the alliance between MSC Cruises and FIAT, MSC announced a first-ever joint promotion where one lucky travel agent and one lucky consumer will each win a new FIAT 500c POP, with a retail value of more than $21,000. Agents can enter to “Win a FIAT” on new cruise bookings made through May 18, on seven-night Caribbean sailings on board MSC Divina between Aug. 2 and Dec. 27. Once the booking is made, travel agents must register it on MSC Cruises travel agent web site, http://msccruisesagent.com/fiatgiveaway . Eligible agents will receive one entry per stateroom booking when registered during the promotion period. Complete rules and entry details can be found at http://msccruisesagent.com/fiatgiveaway (no purchase necessary to enter).

(http://www.msccruisesusa.com)