Fareconnect’s Annual Conference Concludes with Celebration

Fareconnect recently concluded its annual conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The event brought together more than 70 advisors and 19 suppliers for three days full of learning, celebration and community.

This year featured a new program, “Build Your Business,” designed to help advisors create stronger, more sustainable businesses. The sessions focused on practical tools and strategies to help advisors succeed, such as: Accounting 101, the use of artificial intelligence in business, fraud prevention, group booking management and marketing. The goal was to provide advisors with practical knowledge they could take home and put to work in their businesses immediately.

“While product knowledge is essential to being a successful travel advisor, running a successful business requires so much more,” says Rick Gaudet, CEO of Fareconnect.com Inc. “We wanted to give our advisors dedicated time to focus on the business side of travel, introduce them to tools that can make their work easier and help them identify new opportunities for growth.” 

Having suppliers in attendance is an important aspect of the Fareconnect conference. In addition to a trade show, suppliers were given opportunities to deliver classroom presentations, allowing them to focus on their products, destinations and programs while engaging directly with travel advisors. 

“Our conferences are all about learning, and having our suppliers present is a key part of that,” said Gaudet. “The classroom setting gives our partners dedicated time to explain their products, answer questions and build relationships with our advisors. These connections are valuable to both sides and ultimately help our agents better serve their clients.” 

On top of the days full of learning and connecting, the conference had plenty of opportunity for fun, culminating in a gala event where advisors and suppliers were celebrated for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. 

Among the evening's special honours were two awards that reflected the values at the heart of the Fareconnect community.

The Above and Beyond Award was presented to Dean Nicolos and Lucy Bettencourt in recognition of an extraordinary act of customer service. When their clients became stranded in Thompson, Manitoba, after experiencing difficulties with their train journey, Dean drove approximately 10 hours to pick them up. Their willingness to go to such lengths to help their clients exemplified the dedication and personal service that distinguish exceptional travel advisors.

The Heart of Fareconnect Award was presented to John Fraser in recognition of his 17 years of loyalty, dedication and contribution to the Fareconnect community. The award celebrates the individuals whose commitment and ongoing involvement help shape the company's culture and strengthen the bonds between its members.

“The strength of Fareconnect has always been our people,” Gaudet said. “Our advisors work hard to build their businesses, and our supplier partners work hard to support them. Bringing everyone together gives us the opportunity to learn from one another, recognize achievements and strengthen the relationships that make this industry so special.”

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