TORONTO — TRAVELSAVERS Canada is anticipating a profitable year ahead following 2023’s strong return to travel.

According to results of a recent survey, 75% of respondents foresee their sales increasing in 2024, with 30% envisioning significant growth and 46% believing sales will grow somewhat. Only 3% predict sales will somewhat decline, with no one anticipating a significant drop.

The survey also highlighted the emerging trend of artificial intelligence (AI), with 60% of advisors viewing it positively, saying it’s a great tool or has potential. Another 18% regards AI neutrally, while 17% said they aren’t sure about its impact. Just 5% of advisors view AI negatively.

Advisors named AI-assisted travel planning as one of the top five trends emerging in 2024. Two-thirds of respondents (68%) have used AI already or want to try it, and only 12% said they are not using it and don’t plan on trying it all.

“We’re excited about the possibilities AI brings and how it can be leveraged by advisors to streamline their planning and marketing tasks,” added Clementino. “We’re implementing AI in our proprietary technology tools so that advisors can focus on what they do best – providing excellent customer service.”

Other notable survey results include:

2024 Sales

• 46% predict sales will increase somewhat
• 30% predict sales will increase significantly
• 21% predict sales will stay the same
• 3% predict sales will decrease somewhat

Biggest Challenges

• 19% cited air issues (fare costs, NDC)
• 18% cited inflation/rising prices
• 16% cited burnout
• 11% cited fears of recession/less purchasing power
• 11% cited geopolitical issues