An exciting new training program for retailers available only through the Travel Goods Association!

Any retailer serious about being an expert in travel goods will take advantage of this important member benefit!

(Manufacturer and sales rep members are also eligible for this training by request.)

WHAT is a Certified Travel Goods Specialist?

The Travel Goods Association is offering its retail members the opportunity to make their business stand out in the marketplace — by training sales associates to be knowledgeable about different types of travelers and what products and information will meet their needs.

Nowhere else can your sales associates receive the training and education that will earn them the title of Certified Travel Goods Specialist. Associates will learn:

  • Types and styles of travel and destinations, and the implications for selecting appropriate travel goods
  • Luggage and leather goods materials and construction
  • Travel security and regulations

WHEN does the program start?

TGA officially introduced its Travel Goods Specialist Certificate Program at the March 2008 Travel Goods Show in San Diego, where attendees were able to test drive a demo of the program at the TGA booth. Launching soon after in April, retailers around the country can bring their salespeople up to speed in a snap.

It’s quick — it’s easy — and IT’S ONLINE!

Here’s how it works: a sales associate can sign up for the program through the TGA website, pay with a credit card and receive a unique username and password. Users will be able to proceed at their own pace, with 24-hour access from any computer with Internet access.

After completing each of the three training modules in the program, trainees will take a test for that module and move on to the next. It’s easy, convenient and fits into anyone’s schedule.

Trainees will receive a certificate and the right to be referred to as a Certified Travel Goods Specialist after they have successfully passed the tests for all three modules. They’ll also receive a Certified Travel Goods Specialist name tag identifying their expertise to customers, and a decal to display in their store window. A list of all Certified Travel Goods Specialists will be posted on the TGA website.

HOW much does it cost?

*Special Introductory Offer: 50% off before July 1, 2008
TGA Members: $50 per person (regularly $100)
Non-Members: $75 per person (regularly $150)

After July 1, 2008:
TGA Members: $100 per person
Non-Members: $150 per person

Group Pricing Discount:
If you sign-up five or more employees, you will receive a 20% group pricing discount.

WHAT are you waiting for?

Click here if you’re ready to get started, or contact Cathy Trecartin at ctrecartin@travel-goods.org, 419-873-0212.