Travel Leaders Network's Top Leisure Agencies Project Growth for 2026

Travel Leaders Network's highest-producing leisure agencies are projecting strong performance for 2026, according to survey results released following the company's annual Leisure Leaders Meeting.

The survey polled 20 of Travel Leaders Network's top leisure agency owners, who collectively represent more than $2.5 billion in annual preferred partner travel sales. The findings indicate widespread confidence across multiple travel sectors, with cruise sales expected to lead growth.

All agencies surveyed anticipate cruise growth in 2026, with 95% forecasting increases in the premium and luxury segments. Nearly half of respondents project cruise sales gains exceeding 10%. River cruising showed particularly strong projections, with 100% of agencies expecting growth in that category.

Land-based travel is also showing positive momentum, particularly in escorted tours and foreign independent travel (FIT). All-inclusive and group travel categories are maintaining steady performance but with slower growth trajectories.

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"Our top agencies are confident heading into 2026," said Lindsay Pearlman, president of Travel Leaders Network. "Luxury and cruising continue to deliver exceptional returns, and even slower categories remain stable. This is proof of a healthy leisure market overall."

The survey revealed that leading agencies plan significant operational investments in 2026. Half of respondents intend to increase marketing budgets by 10% or more, while 35% will invest in new technology, including artificial intelligence tools. Additionally, 45% plan to raise employee wages and 30% will recruit more independent contractors.

Social media, paid search and email emerged as the most effective marketing channels among surveyed agencies. Travel Leaders Network offers programs in these areas, including Social Share Pro, Engagement Marketing and agency-branded publications.

"It's validating to see that the tools we've built align directly with how our members are growing their businesses," Pearlman added.

Artificial intelligence adoption is accelerating among surveyed agencies, with only 5% indicating no plans to use AI. The majority of agencies (69%) are incorporating AI into customer service operations, while others are using it for marketing communications and advisor profile development on TravelLeaders.com, the network's consumer lead-generation platform.

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Despite the optimistic outlook, agency owners identified concerns for the coming year. Forty-five percent cited the domestic economy as a primary concern, while 20% pointed to political factors.

Survey respondents reported high utilization of Travel Leaders Network programs. All agencies use the network's exclusive consumer offers, including onboard credits, value-added amenities and prepaid gratuities. Ninety percent utilize bonus commission programs for advisor motivation, and 60% identified preferred-partner promotions as major profit drivers.

"These leaders show how partnership, innovation and scale translate into growth," Pearlman said. "Their success underscores why being part of Travel Leaders Network is such a competitive advantage."

Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Travel Leaders Network. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.