Cruise Planners Introduces Online Client Management and Reservations Tool for Home-Based Agents

Cruise Planners/American Express, the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network in the cruise industry, today launched eREZ^SM, the company’s first web-based customer relations management program that allows agents to organize and store in-depth client information in an easy to navigate system accessible from any computer or smart phone with Wi-Fi.

Created exclusively for franchise owners by the company’s information technology team, eREZ^SM was developed to improve productivity by providing agents with the convenience of managing client reservations for cruise travel, air travel, car rentals, land tours and hotel bookings from any computer. eREZ^SM is replacing CP Software, a desktop-based system for agents’ personal computers.

“eREZ^SM is truly an example of the continued support we provide our franchisees,” said Terri Burke, senior vice president of relationship marketing. “We’re always improving our programs and creating new ones, strengthening the marketing efforts of our agents to ultimately drive sales. Our tools and resources provide a solid foundation for Cruise Planners agents to succeed, and I believe this is what sets us apart from competitors.”

The system’s unique navigational tools help agents generate client lists, add new client information as well as changing or editing reservations. A calendar reminds agents of important dates such as payment deadlines and client birthdays, and with the new program, agents can send personalized e-cards promoting new travel packages and cruise deals. eREZ^SM is integrated with the cruise lines’ systems for dispensing commission payments electronically to agents.

The launch of eREZ^SM has been strategically designed based on agents’ production levels to customize training by group. Cruise Planners created more than 20 informational webinars, posted on the Cruise Planners University website, to teach agents how to use the system, and a dedicated group of coaches are available at Cruise Planners’ Home Office to assist with questions or concerns.

“It’s important that Cruise Planners agents understand how eREZ^SM can work for them,” continued Burke. “It’s all about increasing consumer confidence to keep our clients happy and to ensure they return again and again to Cruise Planners for all their travel needs.”

About Cruise Planners/American Express

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Services Representative, is the largest home-based travel agent network in the cruise industry with more than 700 franchise owners across the country that independently book cruises and associated travel. Named No.1 Cruise Tour / Travel Agency by Entrepreneur magazine for the past seven years, Cruise Planners positions franchise owners for success by providing them with innovating marketing, booking and lead-generating tools as well as professional development and hands-on training with the industry’s top executives.

Headquartered in Coral Springs, Fla., Cruise Planners has achieved top producer status with every major cruise line. Accolades include Royal Caribbean International Home-based Partner of the Year (2007 – 2009); Regent Seven Seas Cruises Top Producer (2009); and American Express Travel Representative Excellence Awards (2004 – 2009). For more general information, please visit www.cruiseplannersfranchise.com.

Media Contact:
Holly Zawyer / Deseraé E. del Campo
Cheryl Andrews Marketing
P: 305-444-4033
holly@cam-pr.com / deserae@cam-pr.com