During these challenging times, our partners become more critical than ever in supporting our business and ensuring our longterm sustainability. We want to shine a light on this support, by giving an insight into what makes each of our partnerships tick. Martin Bovingdon gives us an insight into their business and their partnership with Fever.
Tell us about your organisation?
Flight Centre is one of the largest travel groups in the world, however, it is Australian grown and owned and maintains a strong community focus. Flight Centre provides locally based travel services both at home in Australia and in a number of countries around the world.
How do you help people/other businesses?
The famous red and white of Flight Centre brand is split into 2 distinct brands, Flight Centre Leisure and Flight Centre Business Travel.
Both brands help our customers by providing expert advice in all things travel, and high levels of customer service which is available 24/7 no matter where you are in the world.
Flight Centre Business Travel builds on this by pairing businesses with a dedicated Travel Manager who works with our clients to reduce time and add value to corporate bookings.
Why did you decide to partner with netball?
We looked at a number of different partnerships options; with WA Netball we found a local organisation whose commitment to the local community and grass roots of Netball in WA, mirrored our own values. In the end it was an easy decision!
What have been some successes you’ve had from a partnership with netball?
There have been a number of great things to come out of our partnership. Simply being affiliated with WA Netball and the engagement we have had with the fan base has been amazing.
At the same time the Flight Centre Green Room has given us the opportunity to engage with WA Netball partners and build ongoing strategic partnerships. To the benefit of both businesses.
It’s a challenging time for all organisations, how is your business dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak?
Flight Centre took the very difficult decision to stand down 3800 of our Australian family due to how hard the travel industry has been hit. It has been an incredibly difficult time for the whole FCTG family, however, we are still strong! As travel picks up again, we will be able to bring these people back.
The whole company has been focused on helping our customers and in fact anyone who has needed assistance. It has certainly meant a lot of long hours and weekends worked. However, through this we have maintained our unique culture and both Flight Centre Leisure and Flight Centre Business Travel are still working hard to deliver the same high levels of service as ever.
How do you see our community evolving over the coming months?
Through tough times communities always come together and support each other. I see stronger relationships and partnerships being formed and a real commitment for people and businesses in WA to support each other.
What message do you give to other businesses considering a partnership with netball?
That one is easy.... Just do it, you won't regret it!
How can people get in touch with you and your business?
For any companies interested in our business travel service, I can be contacted directly on - 04 8191 5510 or martin.bovingdon@flightcentre.com.au
For any leisure enquiries, pop into your nearest Flight Centre or call 133 133
