A new homeworkers’ hub has been created by Royal Caribbean to “support independent travel agents who run their business from their home”.

Described as a “one-stop shop”, the hub includes the latest brand news, sales campaigns and promotions, and enables agents to access real-time, personalised sales support via the Live Chat function or request a virtual visit from a Royal Caribbean team member.

The hub links through to the Club Royal training modules (L.E.A.R.N.).

Exclusive Royal Caribbean benefits and rewards are also available, including a concept called Pitch for Pounds, launching on 1 January 2021, giving homeworkers the chance to win marketing spend with Royal.

Homeworkers who have signed up to Club Rewards could also win £50 worth of bonus Club Rewards through a new leader board scheme, while customisable social media assets are available on the hub.

Royal Caribbean International head of sales Torey Kings-Hodkin said: “Homeworking travel agents are responsible for a significant amount of our business, so it’s vital that they understand their value and know that we see them as an extension of our sales team.

“The hub is an initiative that will help equip homeworkers with all the tools and know-how to effectively sell our holidays, while offering some fantastic, exclusive incentives along the way.

“It’s been an undeniably tough year for the industry, but especially for independent homeworkers. I hope this additional support will greatly benefit homeworking agents as travel kicks back off in 2021.”

Response from the trade has been positive. Travel Counsellors head of cruise Janet Whittingham said: “We are grateful that Royal Caribbean recognises how invaluable the home working community is to the future success of the cruise industry.

“While Covid-19 has been hard for everyone in our beloved industry, members of the home working community have continued to work around the clock to support and advise their customers.

“The New Royal Caribbean homeworking hub has so much to offer. Having all the necessary tools, sales advice and key brand information in one place is going to have a great impact on their knowledge and sales confidence.”

Not Just Travel and The Travel Franchise co-founder Steve Witt added: “Seeing Royal Caribbean dedicating support for homeworkers shows they are very committed to this growing area of the travel industry. This is great news for homeworking travel consultants across the industry.”