Sandstone Way Networking:A Tour Operator’s Perspective

Tour Operator’s Perspective

Who are Saddle Skedaddle UK largest cycle tour operator 20 years old NE based All types of cycling, multi-day UK, EU and further afield 50% product in UK, 75% of that in NE

Saddle Skedaddle and the Development of the Sandstone Way

Involved as one stakeholder in a larger Cycle Northumberland advisory group

Helped particularly with promotion, in practical ways (eg stuffing feedback cards into map packs) as well as helping gain national visibility with press releases

Ran 2 trips this year, with 3 scheduled for 2016

Trip Feedback “I loved it all - great variety of riding, plenty of challenge and

beautiful views.”

“It's difficult to pick a favourite but the challenge of

completing the 50 miles on Sunday was rewarding. I had

not previously realised the beauty of the Northumberland

countryside..”

“it is typical mountain bike

country so if u like a challenge which I do...go for it.....”

“Great scenery and a good mix of

riding”

Tour Operators – What We Need

A really good route / good cycling Place to place / journey Destination marketing Infrastructure / Service providers Accommodation Luggage transfers Transfers ‘Easily’ Accessible

Tour Operators – What We Offer

Relationships with a Tour Operators helps you extend your reach Brochures 30,000 people Websites 20,000 a month Newsletters 20,000 per month Bring customers from outside the region (UK plus some inbound)

and return custom Circa £100+ per person per day in the local economy*

*Accommodation, snacks, transfers, guides, meals etc. (not including our own NE based staff)

Tour Operators – How We Benefit

What Tour operators get out of this…. Good product ‘Destination marketing’ Service providers (accommodation, transfer

people, places to eat) Feedback opportunity Local, easy to run

Perfect partnership – a win-win situation!

Say hello to amazing cycling holidays