johnpondworld.com

APT, a vitally fit 85, and still growing. APT is as fit today as it was in its formative years, according to owner Geoff McGeary.

“Innovation and growth have gone hand-in-hand,” he said. “It’s an exceptionally fit business and it’s our customers who have made it so, because they keep pushing us for new experiences, as long as those experiences are supported by the APT way of doing things.”

“Our focus is on our customers, making changes quickly, having control over product standards and service delivery and establishing trusting working relationships with our business partners and suppliers.”  ”Being a privately owned company, APT also enjoyed the freedom to create and innovate, and deliver operationally … and quickly. The company’s product diversity, financial security and 85 years of experience are integral elements of continuing support APT received from both agents and consumers,” he said.

European river cruise market had grown at a rate of 22% from 2010 to 2011, APT’s growth rate was 36%. This above average growth rate has APT with over 40% of the market here, which makes APT the largest operator.  As a result of the recent growth, APT Head Office in Hampton was bursting at the seams. Last year it moved management, reservations, sales and marketing into smart new premises in Cheltenham which Mr McGeary said immediately delivered service efficiencies to agent customers.

Mr McGeary said APT listened to its customers. He is renowned for his own market research, opting to dine and meet with as many customers as possible when ‘road testing’ an APT cruise or tour. In an exotic location, in a relaxed environment over great food and wine, passengers tend to be unrestrained when offering an opinion or comment, he said.  Report by John Pond.