The attendees represent the top 10 selling advisors from each of Flight Centre Independents five regions: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Along with a guest of their choice, Icons were flown to Heritance Aarah Maldives Resort via private sea plane and greeted with spa vouchers and champagne before commencing four days of celebration, exploration and rejuvenation.

Global Managing Director Danielle Galloway said Icons encapsulate the essence of what it means to be a Flight Centre Independent member.

“Icons is not just a reward but a testament to the extraordinary efforts of the people who strive for excellence and help propel our brand forward.

“As we gather at the breathtaking Heritance Aarah Resort, we celebrate not only individual achievements but the collective spirit that unites us as the Flight Centre Independent family. The heart of the Maldives perfectly aligns with our vision of being the home and heart of the travel industry, where aspiration, connection, and exceptional experience converge.

“I cherish the opportunity to connect with our highest performing members and wonderful event partners every year at Icons and come away so energised from each conversation. We have some incredible entrepreneurs as part of our global network.”

Chantal Gouws, GM of South Africa, said the retreat provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate its extraordinary members and connect with other regions.

“Watching our members not only celebrate their achievements but connect with the extended global family to share advice and form friendships was incredibly rewarding and is reflective of the brand’s core values – engagement, entrepreneurship and endurance.

“The Maldives is a truly aspirational destination that relaxes and inspires, which is exactly how we wanted our members to feel when they walked away from this four-day celebration.”

Rachel Beaumont-Smith, Journey Beyond Strategic Account Manager said the organisation is honoured to have been a platinum partner of Icons 2024.

“The connections forged during this event are truly invaluable and are sure to last a lifetime. The genuine interest and professionalism displayed by the group towards our incredible range of Journey Beyond experiences is inspiring.  

“We are looking forward to further integrating Flight Centre Independent into Journey Beyond’s strategic sales strategy and solidifying our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to the travel industry globally.

“This partnership marks an exciting chapter for Journey Beyond.”

Ama Waterways and Europ Assistance were also platinum partners for the event. Gold Partners included Azamara Cruises, Cover More Travel Insurance, Exoticca, Expedia TAAP, Intrepid Travel, Addicted to Maldives, Viking Cruises and Inclusive Collection, part of the World of Hyatt. Etihad Airways was a Silver Partner of Icons 2024. 

Flight Centre Independent recently announced South Africa as the location of Icons 2025, which will follow the brand’s largest annual event, Worldwide, also hosted in South Africa. Worldwide is open to all Flight Centre Independent members and features partner exhibits, engaging panel sessions, and hand-selected speakers focusing on topics that empower Flight Centre Independent members to thrive.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Nick Queale, GM Australia; Anita Emilio, VP & GM Canada; Chantal Gouws, GM South Africa; Danielle Galloway, Global Managing Director; Astrid Richardson, Director of Operations; Christina Pedroni,  VP & GM USA and Jason Buckley, GM New Zealand. 

ENDS 

Note to editors: 

About Flight Centre and FCTG Independent 

After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) (ASX:FLT), has enjoyed remarkable growth to become a $20 billion business consisting of more than 30 brands. One of the world’s largest travel agency groups, it has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. FCTG was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995 (ASX: FLT). Flight Centre Travel Group employs more than 11,000 people globally.  

FCTG Independent is a global network of over 1,400 independent travel agents and agencies across the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.  

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Celine Patterson

celine@bigambitions.co.za

Icons rewards the brand’s top 50 global achievers and will be held at the five-star 12 Apostles. Throughout the week, delegates will be treated to a series of luxurious and adventurous activities in the spectacular city of Cape Town and surrounding wine regions.  

Icons 2025 will precede FCI’s already announced Worldwide 2025 event in Sun City, also in South Africa. The timing and location of the two events has been aligned to be beneficial to members who attend both, allowing more time on the ground to fully immerse themselves in the destination.  

Global Managing Director FCTG Luxury and Independent Brands Danielle Galloway said the third Icons offers another incredible destination, following previous events in the Maldives and Europe. 

“Cape Town is the perfect backdrop for Icons, and being able to host the event for a third consecutive year truly highlights the remarkable achievements of our members. The itinerary for 2025 is shaping up to be unmissable.   

“Our members run incredible travel businesses, delivering exceptional service to their customers around the world. Each year, we hope to inspire, and reward are highest performing members with the opportunity to attend Icons: an exclusive four-night event in a stunning locale. Icons is truly the pinnacle of reward and recognition within the FCI network. 

“Icons also provides a wonderful opportunity for our global members to engage with each other and a select group of event partners. The event fosters a sense of community where they can connect, collaborate and share their journeys as travel entrepreneurs.” 

Chantal Gouws, General Manager of FCI South Africa, expressed deep enthusiasm as she shared, “We are absolutely thrilled to bring Icons 2025 to Cape Town. This extraordinary experience for distinguished top performers holds a special place in our hearts at FCI. As we look forward to Icons 2025, we are committed to uniting and celebrating the industry’s leading talent.”

For more information about Flight Centre Independent visit HOME — Flight Centre Independent Partners interested in attending the 2025 Icons event may submit expressions of interest here. 

 To view the official Icons 2025 destination reveal video, please click HERE 

**ENDS**

About Flight Centre and FCTG Independent 

After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) (ASX:FLT), has enjoyed remarkable growth to become a $20 billion business consisting of more than 30 brands. One of the world’s largest travel agency groups, it has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. FCTG was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995 (ASX: FLT). Flight Centre Travel Group employs more than 11,000 people globally.  

FCTG Independent is a global network of over 1,400 independent travel agents and agencies across the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.  

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Tracy Porter 

Phone: +27 (0)82 891 4353 

Email: tracy.porter@flightcentre.co.za 

Chantal Gouws, General Manager at Flight Centre Independent (FCI), says: “We’re seeing a marked increase in requests for specialised itineraries. From marine conservation expeditions along the Wild Coast to mindfulness retreats in the Drakensberg, travellers are looking for holidays that reflect their individual passions.”

This trend is not isolated to South Africa. Globally, the adventure tourism market, valued at USD 366.7 billion in 2022, is projected to reach USD 4.6 trillion by 2032, according to Allied Market Research. Meanwhile, wellness tourism and sustainable travel are also gaining traction, with the global wellness tourism market expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2023 to 2030, as reported by Grand View Research. Solo travel, particularly among millennials, is another niche seeing significant growth in South Africa, according to research conducted by the Flight Centre Travel Group.

This paradigm shift isn’t just a fleeting trend—it’s a fundamental change in how South Africans approach travel. For independent travel consultants (ITCs), this evolution represents more than just a challenge—it’s an unprecedented opportunity to redefine their role and value in the travel ecosystem. By specialising in niche markets, ITCs can transform themselves from mere booking agents into indispensable travel partners, curating experiences that speak directly to their clients’ passions and dreams.

Gouws explains: “Niche travel is where ITCs truly shine. As experienced travel professionals, our ITCs – or travelpreneurs as we like to call them – are uniquely positioned to specialise in niche travel, showcasing their passion and expertise while tailoring their businesses with complete freedom as they wish.”

Specialising in a niche market offers several advantages both for ITCs and their customers:

• Enhanced Customer Understanding: By focusing on a specific niche, ITCs can better understand their clients’ needs and preferences, leading to stronger relationships and increased customer loyalty. Travellers benefit from more personalised service that caters specifically to their interests.
• Market Differentiation: By focusing on specific niches, travel consultants can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. This could mean becoming an expert in adventure travel, wellness retreats, or sustainable travel. For travellers, this means they have access to a wealth of specialised information and unique travel opportunities.
• In-Depth Destination Knowledge: With travellers seeking more authentic, localised experiences, in-depth knowledge of destinations – particularly those popular among South Africans like Thailand, the UK, and Indian Ocean islands – becomes crucial.
• Increased Earning Potential: Niche travel often commands premium prices, allowing ITCs to increase their earning potential. For travellers, the higher cost is often justified by the enhanced and tailored experiences they receive.
• Established Authority: By becoming experts in their chosen niche, ITCs can establish themselves as trusted authorities in that segment, further enhancing their reputation as thought leaders. Travellers gain confidence in the expertise and reliability of their travel consultants.

The ability to cater to niche interests and provide personalised, high-value experiences will be crucial for travel consultants in 2025, according to Gouws. Those who can successfully navigate this changing landscape, backed by established industry players like Flight Centre, will thrive in South Africa’s evolving travel market.

For travellers, this shift promises a future of more tailored, meaningful, and unforgettable journeys.

Popular Niche Travel Segments for 2025

• Solo Travel: With 80% of solo travellers being millennials, ITCs can offer tailored itineraries and resources for independent exploration.
• Wellness Tourism: The global wellness tourism market was valued at USD 817 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow significantly. ITCs can specialise in wellness retreats, yoga holidays, and health-focused travel experiences.
• Adventure Tourism: This rapidly growing market includes activities such as hiking, wildlife safaris, and water sports. The global adventure tourism market is projected to reach USD 4.6 trillion by 2032.
• Sustainable Tourism: As environmental awareness increases, sustainable tourism is gaining traction. ITCs can focus on eco-friendly accommodations and responsible wildlife tourism to cater to the growing “conscious traveller” market.
• Destination Specialisation: Focusing on specific regions, such as the Indian Ocean islands, allows ITCs to offer in-depth knowledge and expertise.

The future of travel is niche. As South African travellers continue to look for personalised and meaningful experiences, the demand for niche travel experts will only grow. By embracing this trend, travel consultants can position themselves for success in the ever-evolving South African travel landscape.

JOHANNESBURG, 14 November 2023 – Flight Centre Independent (FCI) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of its inaugural global FCI Icons event, a historic convening of top performers from Flight Centre Travel Group’s Independent businesses worldwide.

The event took place aboard Uniworld’s S.S. Beatrice from 1 to 4 November 2023, sailing from Budapest to Vienna. A total of 76 travel advisors and agency owners representing 55 independent agencies from South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and Canada came together to celebrate their achievements and to network, share knowledge, and learn from each other, as well as from FCI’s main suppliers and the global leadership team.

Allie Sparrs, FCI’s Global Head of Brand and Marketing spoke about the event’s significance. She noted the full attendance from top agencies and being honoured with the presence of Ellen Bettridge, Uniworld’s CEO, for the entire trip. Danielle Galloway, Global Managing Director, FCTG Independent and Premium Divisions, was also onboard, making it a truly international gathering of travel trade talent and leadership.

The exclusive event brought together an impressive group of sponsors including Uniworld, TTC Tour Brands, Adventure World, Lindblad Expeditions, Cover More, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Expedia TAAP, and the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt. This created valuable opportunities for networking and education. Other sponsors who supported the event virtually were Intrepid, AAT Kings, Back Roads Touring, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Attendees enjoyed exclusive experiences like Trafalgar’s Be My Guest luncheon at Schieszl Winery and an unforgettable silent disco after-party hosted by Singapore Airlines, complete with SQ business class pyjamas.

“The Inclusive Collection, part of the World of Hyatt, also generously provided all agents with a three-night stay at one of their properties, showcasing the recognition bestowed upon all the agents, not just the ‘icons’, throughout this special event,” said Sparrs.

One of the FCI Top Performers who attended, Gary De Sa, called it an “unforgettable trip”. He highlighted “being exposed to interesting and unique offerings from sponsors, to meeting and engaging with many of our peers from around the world and all of that while being spoiled rotten aboard the S.S Beatrice!” Another Top Performer, Ane Steyn, echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the memories created with colleagues and suppliers from five continents. Wendy Murray, shared the sense of privilege felt by all, noting the importance of being able to spend time with colleagues from across the globe.

“It’s always good to know people in other countries if you ever need assistance with a destination or supplier in their country. It was also great to find out how their business works and what clients they have. Our suppliers were just great. We were treated like royalty for the entire time,” said Murray.

The FCI Icons event not only celebrated achievement but also underscored FCTG’s commitment to sustainability, with carbon emissions offset through a partnership with Allianz and Trees4Travel, aiming for a 100% carbon-neutral event.

As General Manager of Flight Centre Independent Brands, Chantal Gouws reflected: “As we look back on the success of our first FCI Icons trip, we are immensely proud of the experience created for our top performers. Their dedication is what makes FCI the extraordinary network it is today.”

The FCI team looks ahead to the 2024 Icons event, with plans to continue setting new benchmarks for excellence, recognition and rewards in the travel industry worldwide.

The next Icons destination was unveiled on the final night at this year’s event. The Maldives will be the tropical backdrop where FCI’s top-selling agents from 2023 will be recognized and rewarded for their outstanding sales results during an exclusive trip next year.

FCI would like to extend an enormous thank you to all the sponsors. Without them, this event would not be possible.

2024 Icons destination reveal video: https://youtu.be/SsHa_qoAdso

END

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kim Taylor, Big Ambitions

Phone: +27 (0)76 825 5508

Email: kim@bigambitions.co.za

About Flight Centre and FCTG Independent

After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) (ASX:FLT), has enjoyed remarkable growth to become a $20 billion business consisting of more than 30 brands. One of the world’s largest travel agency groups, it has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. FCTG was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995 (ASX: FLT). Flight Centre Travel Group employs more than 11,000 people globally.

FCTG Independent is a global network of over 1,400 independent travel agents and agencies across the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.  

ITCs from various age groups and genders polled in the Flight Centre Independents survey were asked to share their views on what it’s like to work as an Independent Travel Consultant. Areas of focus included the positive and negative aspects of becoming an ITC, and their level of happiness with the decision.

The survey further revealed that 82% of independent travel advisors recommended becoming an ITC, with 73% saying that their working hours improved when they went solo.

All of the respondents said that they enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with running their own business. The study showed that a better work-life balance was an important consideration in choosing FCTG as a host brand with which to launch their business.

FCTG launched an independent model for experienced consultants to work from home in 2013 and now has 175 teams and businesses, as well as a support team.

“There is a large earning potential for ITCs since your income is based on commission. You have complete control of the scale of the business you want to build. You work when you want because you’re the boss, but you’ve also got the backing of a host agency like FCTG to help grow your business,” says Chantal Gouws, General Manager Flight Centre Independent Brands.

Making the move

Independent Travel Consultant Wendy Murray was a single mother of a four-year-old when she chose to open her own travel advisory business. She says that an initial concern was letting go of the security that came with a salaried job. “I prepared for a few months by looking at what I would earn in commission at the agency where I worked. It got to the point where I was confident that the commission would give me the return I needed. I also knew that most of my clients would move with me because they had done so when I’d moved agencies twice before,” says Murray.

For other agents considering becoming an ITC, Murray recommends that they first work out what they would need to earn, then consider if their clients are able to support that, and finally determine if their clients are willing to follow them once they become independent.

“It’s essential to have a contingency plan if you don’t earn the expected income in one month. As an entrepreneur, your earnings can vary significantly from one month to the next, ranging from R15,000 to R150,000, and it’s crucial to be prepared for such fluctuations. That’s what comes with running your own business,” she says.

A work-from-home opportunity

Penny Matela, a South African-based ITC with FCTG, has young children and says the commission structure works wonderfully for her, and her earnings have increased since she became independent. She adds: “What you put in is what you get out”.

Another benefit of being an ITC is that childcare costs may be reduced. “My husband is also a freelancer and works from home. We can care for our children and work at the same time, so being an ITC works financially for our family too,” she says.

ITC Ané Steyn shared the following about her business growth: “As a business owner, I’ve experienced exponential growth thanks to the help of FCTG marketing materials which are readily available. It has freed up time and allowed me to focus on other aspects of my marketing. I enjoy having the autonomy to decide on my own niche market and to grow my business in the way I want. With FCTG, I am able to sell what I personally want to present to my own target market.”

Entrepreneurial opportunities

“As an ITC, you have everything you need to start your own business. You sell premium travel with Flight Centre Travel Group’s negotiated content and manage your customers using FCTG’s operating and banking systems. The commission split is 75-25, meaning 75% goes to you and 25% goes to FCTG; what’s more, there are no joining or monthly fees,” concludes Gouws.

Gouws has the following advice for travel agents considering becoming an ITC:

• Assess whether your existing customers will transition with you as you launch your travel advisory business. Building a loyal customer base with which you can expand, should be your objective.
• Make a thoughtful selection of a host brand. Opt for a trustworthy brand such as FCTG that provides advanced technology, valuable tools, and comprehensive support to assist you in growing your business.
• Consider partnering with other ITCs with expertise in areas that complement yours. Doing so will boost your capacity to serve your clients while providing you with valuable information and specialised knowledge.
• Assess your skills and enrol in a training programme to fill the gaps. By partnering with FCTG, you automatically gain access to training resources and continual learning prospects. Since the travel industry evolves swiftly, it is essential to have access to current information that helps you stay abreast of these changes.
• Get your agency out there to attract the right audience and demographics. Digital marketing is the way to as most people go online to research information when they plan a trip.

For more information on how to become an FCTG ITC, visit www.flightcentreindependent.co.za

The refreshed ITC brand will launch in market from January 2022, offering even more content and value to ITCs and small travel businesses in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, 11 NOVEMBER 2021 – Flight Centre Associates (FCA), the independent travel consultant brand of the Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), will undergo an exciting brand refresh in January 2022. In anticipation of the launch, FCA has been renamed as Flight Centre Independent, effective immediately.

“Our independent offerings continue to be incredibly popular and updating our brand identity, including the new Flight Centre Independent name, is the next step in aligning ourselves to what the market needs,” says Chantal Gouws, Flight Centre Independent General Manager.

“Our customers won’t notice much of a difference as they will still receive the same expert, highly-personalised attention from their ITC. But we are working hard behind the scenes to offer even more value. All will be revealed when we officially take Flight Centre Independent to market in January 2022,” says Gouws.

“Flight Centre Independent offers 2 unique offerings: the branded offering where you will trade as Flight Centre and the unbranded offering – our ticketing option – which also provides you access to our exclusive land and air content.

“These two models continue to deliver ITCs and smaller travel companies the flexibility of running their businesses independently but with the peace of mind, support and financial backing of a globally recognised and secure company – the world’s largest travel retailer,” explains Gouws.

“We will soon be able to offer our ITCs both corporate and leisure content but will announce specifics when we go to market next year,” concludes Gouws.

Flight Centre Independent currently consists of 175 highly experienced independent consultants and small travel businesses throughout the country.

For more information on Flight Centre Independent, visit https://www.flightcentreindependent.co.za/

***Ends***

FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL GROUP SOUTH AFRICA

Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) SA is part of Flight Centre Travel Group, an Australian-based international travel company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange. The company is listed on the ASX, with a market cap of AU$4.05 billion and a current share price of AU$20.27 as of 11 November 2021. Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa is a level 1 BEE company with three leading brands: Flight Centre, Corporate Traveller and FCM. FCTG SA is wholly owned and has been recognized as one of Deloitte’s Best Companies to Work for in South Africa for 14 consecutive years.