companies.
Alex Nikonov of Rusmoto Travel (Russia) believes the
more established businesses will struggle yet should
come through the crisis with the right business planning
and management. He’s fearful for the ‘young’ businesses
that are heavily in debt and don’t necessarily have a local
market that can direct business to.
“When you take short-term loans to buy 20 or so bikes
and expect that will be repaid within two to three years it
could be a problem,” explained Nikonov. With international
borders closed he believes some companies simply
cannot sell tours to local people due to the economic
situation. It’s a valid point and remains to be seen how
these companies will come through this.
Nikonov believes how a business handles the crisis
and projects an open and transparent communication
will also dictate how they come out the other end. Reputation
is everything.
Perception is important and focusing on the future
has given many travel businesses an objective and some
hope. Marketing for future tours has already begun, several
companies are offering discounts for future tours or
“book now, travel later” options. This is keeping a positive
cash flow, and while diminished, it is allowing some
level of business to continue while many are seeking new
markets.
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