Riviera Travel has revealed it is working on a “comprehensive programme of incentives and fam trip opportunities” to reward travel agents who have supported the company through the pandemic.

While no dates have been set for the trips, the company confirmed it is considering launching a Riviera Travel agent award scheme in 2021.

Earlier this year Stuart Milan joined as channel director, with the remit to boost trade engagement.

The former general manager for travel agency Broadway Travel stated that trade sales could grow to a third of Riviera’s overall sales “over the medium term”.

He added: “I believe that travel agents are the great survivors of our industry – because they know their clients, they can give a personal service, and they are so enthusiastic about our wonderful industry.

“For those that emerge next year their services will be in huge demand as people look for trusted advice and guidance when selecting their much-needed break.

“A belief that trust will be a core component of future holiday decisions underpins Riviera’s confidence in the travel trade.

“We have plans to grow the volume of bookers through our travel agent partners and envisage trade sales rising to a third of our overall sales over the medium term.”

Milan added that the Riviera trade team was now primed to “spend more time with agents”, adding: “We are investing in our team. While times have been tough, and some in our industry have cut back on their trade teams, we have grown our agency sales team.

“We want Riviera’s multi-award-winning reputation with customers to be matched with a five-star rating from travel agents.”

Riviera added that sales through travel agents “are on rise and engagement of agents with Riviera has increased dramatically”, partly due to a series of webinars it produced in collaboration with trade partners.