Once again, we’re here to remind you the reports of the “death” of the travel advisor are greatly exaggerated.
Despite the dominance of online booking platforms, the global travel agency services market is not just surviving — it is evolving and expanding rapidly, according to a new strategic business report from ResearchAndMarkets.com.
The role of the travel advisor has fundamentally shifted from a booking facilitator to an experience curator. As travel logistics become more complex, the demand for human expertise, personalized itineraries, and crisis management is driving significant market growth.
By the numbers:
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$521.5 Million: The estimated value of the global travel agency services market in 2024.
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$776.2 Million: The projected market value by 2030.
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6.9%: The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) expected between 2024 and 2030.
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10.5%: The forecasted CAGR for China, which is expected to reach $159.8 million by 2030, outpacing many other regions.
Why it matters: The report validates the “high-touch” service model. Travelers are increasingly willing to pay for professional planning due to:
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Rising complexity: Multi-destination trips, visa regulations, and health documentation are pushing DIY travelers toward experts.
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The “Safety Net” factor: Post-pandemic disruptions (strikes, weather, geopolitics) have highlighted the value of having an advocate for real-time itinerary modification and safety assurance.
Driving the news: Agencies are diversifying revenue streams beyond standard commissions.
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Niche Specialization: Growth is being fueled by demand for medical tourism, wellness retreats, LGBTQ+ travel, and eco-tourism.
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Luxury & Corporate: High-net-worth clients continue to demand private jet charters and behind-the-scenes cultural experiences, while corporate travel remains a stronghold due to duty-of-care compliance.
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New Models: Subscription services and concierge-style memberships are on the rise, offering tiered benefits like emergency repatriation and priority upgrades.
The tech angle: Far from being replaced by AI, successful agencies are leveraging it.
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AI and CRM tools are handling routine inquiries and itinerary building, freeing up human agents to focus on high-value, personalized interactions.
Who is booking:
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Gen Z & Millennials: Contrary to popular belief, younger travelers are seeking guided planning to navigate international regulations and visa policies.
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Boomers: Continue to drive demand for agency-led group tours and cruise packages.
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Emerging Markets: First-time international travelers in developing economies are seeking expert guidance for visa processing and multilingual support.
Go deeper: The full report, “Travel Agency Services – Global Strategic Business Report,” includes profiles on major players like American Express Global Business Travel, BCD Travel, and Virtuoso partners, along with detailed regional analysis.
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