Cruiseabout marked a significant milestone yesterday with the grand opening of its fourth store at Westfield Carindale in Brisbane. This expansion underscores the company’s robust growth and commitment to enhancing its presence across Australia.
Plans to Double Business in 2025
Brad Kennedy, General Manager of Cruiseabout, expressed his excitement about the new store. “Next year will see further growth as we effectively double the size of our current business by welcoming our first New South Wales store in Narellan before a third Queensland store at North Lakes,” he announced. This strategic move aims to tap into new markets and cater to a broader customer base.
Upcoming Store Locations
- Narellan, New South Wales: Cruiseabout’s first store in NSW.
- North Lakes, Queensland: Third Queensland outlet.
- Existing Stores: Adelaide, Perth, and the Gold Coast.
Kennedy highlighted that these openings are a testament to Cruiseabout’s strong performance in its inaugural year. The company plans to continue this trajectory, driven by the increasing popularity of cruising as a preferred holiday option.
The Boom of the Cruise Industry
“Cruising remains the fastest growing sector in the travel industry,” Kennedy continued. This surge in demand has positioned Cruiseabout to capitalize on the trend, ensuring a bright future for the brand. The company’s focus is on matching customers with their ideal cruise experiences, showcasing why cruising stands out among holiday choices.
Strategic Growth Initiatives
- Expansion of Team: Cruiseabout will welcome a group of cruise specialists in the coming months.
- Customer Focus: Emphasis on personalized cruise matching.
- Brand Development: Strengthening Cruiseabout’s market position.
Kennedy encouraged job seekers to stay tuned for new opportunities, emphasizing the company’s dynamic growth and the exciting prospects it offers.
Voices from the Team
Kelsey McColl, Team Leader of the new Carindale store, shared her enthusiasm about the expansion. “I’ve been working in Flight Centre stores across Queensland for eight years and am excited to take on a new challenge at Cruiseabout,” she said. Her passion for cruising and commitment to customer service will be invaluable as the company grows.
Personal Insights
- Experience: Kelsey brings eight years of expertise from Flight Centre.
- Passion: Deep love for cruising drives her dedication.
- Team Support: Eager to help customers and support her team.
McColl added, “Helping my customers find the right cruise and supporting my team to do the same is something I’m genuinely passionate about and can’t wait to do every day alongside my team at Cruiseabout Carindale.”
Parent Company’s Strong Performance
Flight Centre Travel Group, Cruiseabout’s parent company, has reported a 20% increase in cruise booking value year-on-year. This impressive uplift highlights the strategic importance of cruising within their global offerings. The focus on cruising as a growth priority aligns with Cruiseabout’s expansion plans, reinforcing the brand’s potential in the market.
Key Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Year-on-Year Growth | 20% |
| Number of Current Stores | 4 |
| Planned Store Openings | 3 |
| Target Year for Doubling Biz | 2025 |
These figures demonstrate a clear upward trend, with Cruiseabout poised to ride the wave of the booming cruise industry.
The Road Ahead
With the opening of the Carindale store, Cruiseabout is not just expanding its physical presence but also reinforcing its commitment to providing exceptional cruise experiences. The company’s strategic moves are set to benefit both customers and employees, creating a vibrant and growing community around cruising.
“We have an incredible team of Cruiseaders and I have to thank all of them for their commitment to our business over the past year, there really has never been a more exciting time to work in the cruise industry,” Kennedy concluded. His words reflect the optimistic outlook and the dedicated team driving Cruiseabout’s success.
