THE much-anticipated South African Vehicle Renting and Leasing Association (SAVRALA) and the Association of South African Travel Agents (ASATA) convention - which works in favour of both travel agent and consumer - has been completed for final implementation on November 1.
Martina Nicholson, a spokesperson for ASATA, says both companies will be launching a "comprehensive public relations campaign" to highlight the responsibilities of and implications for both the agents and consumers.
"The convention was basically drawn up - after much deliberation - to protect consumers, travel agents and car rental companies and to bring South Africa's car rental industry much more in line with what is being done abroad."
Nicholson says all SAVRALA and ASATA members will be required to abide by the rules and will be well informed by means of "strong educational programmes", articles in industry publications and other relevant documentation.
Tour operators and travel agents will be required to print the new rules and information on tickets and itineraries.
A 10-page convention document, as well as an executive summary, is to be distributed to all ASATA and SAVRALA members.
(Adéle Mackenzie)