Q: What type of background, experience, and capabilities are required?
A:
Local revenues are generated through advertising sales and sales promotions,
so direct experience in B2B sales and marketing is highly beneficial.
Travelhost generally seeks goal-oriented, entrepreneurial individuals with a successful business background, optimistic outlook and knowledge of their local community.
In addition to sales/marketing experience, Travelhost is looking for someone who:
- Has a clearly defined personal goal for their future
- Thinks like an entrepreneur and wants to be their own boss
- Likes being of service to others and sharing their success
- Truly enjoys, perhaps even loves, their home community
- Displays a history of winning and a successful business background
- Brings an optimistic outlook to life and relationships
- Is fun to be around
Q: Would I be buying an established business opportunity or developing my own company?
A:
Some operating territories may be available from time to time.
In most cases, however, the new Distributor will be expanding into an area not currently served by Travelhost publications.
Travelhost has identified a number of targeted cities and expansion territories based on the concentration of hotels, attractions and other travel amenities.
To determine if your desired area may still be available, please contact the Market Expansion Department at (800) 527-1782.
Q: What are my time commitments to the business?
A:
As a Travelhost business owner, you are free to determine and manage your own local business
operations, time schedules, and management routines as you deem best. Many Distributors/ Associate Publishers do work out of their homes,
while others hire employees or use independent contractors to help build their business.
However, the great majority of Travelhost Distributors / Associate Publishers operate the business as their sole, full-time profession,
keeping in mind that the financial success of your operations will be dependent solely upon your own efforts.
Q: Is the Travelhost relationship a franchise?
A:
Travelhost is structured as a distributorship, rather than as a franchise.
Associate Publishers have the freedom to establish their own business and marketing plans, time schedules and routines - yet operate in coordination with a strong national
organization with an established track record. While the publication format, submission guidelines and non-local content are determined by Travelhost,
the Distributor/AP is given wide latitude and autonomy over its business operations.
Q: Can I sell my business and transfer my contractual rights?
A:
Travelhost Distributors/APs may sell their business and transfer their contractual rights subject
only to approval of the transferee by Travelhost.
As with any other independent business, each Distributor/AP is responsible for establishing its own price and terms and negotiating directly with any prospective purchaser.
Q: What Travelhost products are available to APs?
A:
In addition to representing the nation's leading hotel visitor publication,
Travelhost Associate Publishers may offer an array of other specialty products designed to reach travelers at visitor centers and high-traffic locations,
in RV parks and campgrounds, at major events and tourist destinations, and even on-line through our national web site.
Q: What type of office facilities and equipment are required?
A:
While some Distributors/APs operate homebased businesses and others work
from a small office. The principal focus of the business is in-the-field and on-site with local advertising clients and our strategic partners in the
hospitality industry. No specific facilities are required by Travelhost, and beyond the typical business office equipment (computer with high speed
Internet access, printer, etc.), no special equipment is needed.
Q: Does owning my own business provide other financial or tax benefits?
A:
As a true entrepreneur, you are in control of all business finances and daily operations.
However, Travelhost recommends that you seek guidance from your own CPA or legal counsel on these issues.
Q: What is the process to start up my new business?
A:
Candidates for ownership must first be approved and selected for their desired territory.
Upon consummation of the Agreements, new Distributors and APs are introduced to the Travelhost publication process and typical industry practices,
and they then proceed with development of their local business operations.
Q: How can I learn more about the business?
A:
A selection process is currently underway for many expansion areas.
To learn more about the local opportunity and requirements, please speak with our Director of Market Expansion at (800) 527-1782.
After an exchange of information, qualified candidates will be invited to a personal interview and briefing at corporate headquarters.
