Presidential
campaigns are among the most demanding travel accounts on the planet. Without
fail you can absolutely bank on last minute changes becoming a way of life, a
campaign staff constantly in flux, the operation running around the clock, no
history to plan and negotiate with, and the volumes going over the top. For
these unique customers, every nickel is critical, and impressions mean
everything. Mistakes? Don’t even think about it. They could cost a campaign
dearly. To be successful, the travel management system has to be established
with great care and then of course follow through has to be perfect.
A
great deal of collaboration and advance planning took place at MacNair Travel
for the Bush/Cheney '04 Campaign that resulted in the development of first rate
travel management systems and procedures that delivered the powerful results
listed below. Strong airline partnerships were established with preferred
carriers without the benefit of a track record; a credit card relationship was
developed to improve cash flow and earn benefits, the lead travel consultant
was relocated to the campaign’s travel office and was equipped with an enhanced
communication package that provided remote access and after-hours support. More
importantly, policies and procedures were defined in order for cost saving
systems and authorization processes to be implemented. These policies also
ensured the tracking of travelers, accurate and timely reporting, time savings,
and compliance with campaign finance/travel laws.
Results
- $140.42 savings per ticket, or $662,641 total saved on
airfare. The campaign’s average ticket cost was $328.89 versus a national
average of $469.31 for the same time period on 4,719 tickets. We assisted
in negotiating the airline agreement.
- Over 260 free tickets issued against American Express
Membership Rewards Miles to eliminate high cost itineraries, saving over
$274,000.
- Car rental reservations booked below ceiling rates and
on supplier relationship that included direct bill, great rates, and
under-aged drivers.
- Prepaid Hotel blocks were made across the country
on a shoestring.
- Constant changes were managed 24/7 by our dedicated
team with help from our after hours team. Many travelers only used one way
tickets as they had no idea where there next destination may be.
- Traveler confidence was at an all time high.
Safety and security issues were addressed.
- Candidate wins.
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