FT. LAUDERDALE — Host agency Avoya is encouraging its independent agencies to operate as corporate entities, such as a limited liability company (LLC), and have their own errors and omissions (E&O) insurance.

Avoya Travel Network, with a handful of agencies in Canada, says the program is aimed at promoting increased professionalism, and better protects each independent agency owner in business.

“A few years ago we began to educate independent agencies in the Avoya Travel Network on the tremendous benefits that corporate ownership and having their own E&O insurance brings to both their agency and customers, including more business credibility and reputation along with reduced business risks,” said Avoya President, Brad Anderson. “Avoya Travel has always been an innovative thought leader committed to helping independent agencies and this initiative once again raises the bar on integrity and professionalism. Given the proven benefits of corporate ownership and E&O insurance, we predict that other hosts and travel franchises will eventually begin to encourage their agents to do the same, which will benefit the entire travel industry.”

As a key part of the initiative, new customer leads from Avoya’s ‘Live Leads’ program are available exclusively to corporate independent agencies in the Avoya Network with their own E&O insurance. September was another record-breaking month for Avoya, said Anderson.

Sharon Sherrif-White, owner of Sheri-Funtastic Travels and Resorts Ltd., has the only official cruise travel agency on Jamaica. “I’ve always trusted Avoya Travel to always do what is right for my Independent Agency and customers, and when discussing becoming an LLC operating within the Avoya Network with our attorney, his response was ‘that’s a good company, they obviously care about you a lot’.”

Sherrif-White said she has seen many benefits. “Not only have I gained new levels of respect and am viewed as a serious player in the industry, I also have more opportunity to grow my business and am attracting more clients assured that they will receive the quality attention that a reputable agency can offer.”

Avoya’s recruitment website is JoinAvoya.com.