Agent Discounting Policy Change?

[seaproponent]

We had lots of chatter last month about a possible January 1 change of HAL policy, under which agents would no longer be allowed to discount fares &/or advertise discounts. As the magic date has past, it looks like there has not been a change. Anybody heard anymore about this?

[cp556]

If my info is correct, the change affects how agents ADVERTISE as of 1/1. They can no longer say "Save 10% off the printed rate" or the like. However, they can adjust the prices they offer you, as long as they don't advertise it.

[Cruzman]

If my info is correct, the change affects how agents ADVERTISE as of 1/1. They can no longer say "Save 10% off the printed rate" or the like. However, they can adjust the prices they offer you, as long as they don't advertise it.

If in fact you are correct, it is obviously not being enforced. Just checked one of the larger on line TA's for March 2010 HAL Caribbean sailings, and they are all discounted (% showing) from 10% to 55%.

[gentlemancruiser]

Is this HAL agents or any TA? It sounded to me like HAL is saying to their agents, not any TA's.

It does make sense for HAL to tell their own agents - "don't give up the discounts, unless the guests are specifically requesting it", that would be good salesman ship.