被白嫖急眼的旅行社，这个暑期开始反击了

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing trend of travel agencies in China to charge a customization consultation fee to combat the rising issue of clients taking advantage of their services without making a purchase. This shift aims to enhance transaction efficiency and reduce the prevalence of "freeloading" behavior among clients [6][11][24]. Group 1: Freeloading Behavior - Travel agencies are experiencing a surge in clients who excessively modify travel plans and then choose not to proceed with bookings, leading to frustration among agency staff [2][3]. - Examples of freeloading include clients demanding detailed itineraries and then using them to negotiate lower prices with other agencies or opting for self-guided trips after receiving extensive planning assistance [4][5]. Group 2: Introduction of Consultation Fees - Many travel agencies are now requesting a customization consultation fee after understanding a client's needs, which has surprised clients who are accustomed to free services [7][8]. - The fees vary widely among agencies, with some charging a flat rate, while others base it on the length of the trip or a percentage of the total travel cost [10][11]. Group 3: Rationale Behind Consultation Fees - The primary intention behind charging consultation fees is not profit but to improve transaction efficiency and deter freeloading behavior [11][24]. - Agencies are facing pressure to increase the efficiency of their sales processes due to reduced staff and the need to maximize the productivity of existing employees [11][19]. Group 4: Industry Challenges and Historical Context - The call for consultation fees is not new; similar discussions have occurred in the past, notably around 2019, but previous attempts largely failed due to market dynamics and internal competition among agencies [13][16]. - The travel agency sector is highly competitive, with a significant increase in the number of agencies but a decrease in market share, leading to a buyer's market where clients have substantial negotiating power [18][19]. Group 5: Current Market Dynamics - The current environment is different, as many agencies are focusing on niche markets and unique products, which provides them with the confidence to charge consultation fees [23][24]. - Agencies are adopting a more selective approach to client acquisition, aiming to filter out low-value clients and focus on those who are more likely to convert [25][26]. Group 6: Future Outlook - The sustainability of the consultation fee trend remains uncertain, as the industry must unify its approach to effectively implement such fees [20][21]. - The article suggests that industry associations could play a role in exploring the feasibility of standardizing consultation fees and addressing consumer concerns regarding service quality [26].