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Cruise Week 12/17/08

1. Stimulating Suppliers
Several of the new supplier stimulus programs recognize the importance of the distribution system, say retailers. Programs drawing the most comments are those involving commission structures, such as Silverseas' 25% commission program and Royal's tri-branded ASAP Program....

2. Freed On TCs, Co-Op, & 'Mini-Wave'
Altruism is partly responsible for Royal's ASAP Program. "It's easy to say, 'We love travel agents,' and then not back it up," explains RCI Senior VP Vicki Freed. "We are particularly concerned that travel agents be around in the future, because when you build an Oasis with 37 different stateroom categories, you need professionals to help the consumer figure it all out."....

3. Luxury: Rebating & Commissions
When Silversea came out with its 25% commission program for voyages departing on or before March 31, 2009, competitors criticized that it would spur rebating and move marketshare but not spur the market....

4. News Shorts
Carnival Ads, Norwegian Gem....

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