LETTER FROM CHAIRMAN

What I find most inspiring about the organization I head, is its Code of Ethics. And I think it is very important for senior people in any organization to believe in its core values – the percolation is constructive.

AIRDA’s Code of Ethics (COE) underlines the need to outline limits and procedures for the marketing of timeshare and the methods employed to solicit business. The operating canvas for the COE covers those who are engaged in the promotion of vacation or holiday ownership in India.

The COE also aims at ironing out the inconsistencies of business models adopted by various resort developers to arrive at one unified, working model - for members of AIRDA and new entrants who wish to join the fold.

Some key takeaways and highlights from the COE

• Cooling off period
  After a purchase has been made, AIRDA recommends a cooling-off period of 10 clear working days - enough time to change your mind if you have a valid reason.
  
  
• Cancellations
  AIRDA has also outlined policy guidelines for cancellations after the cooling off period and if necessary, mediate on the dialogue between resort owners and customers.
  
  
• Sales & Marketing
  We think the buyer should have access to the complete picture – information provided must specify the offer / sale of vacation ownerships / timeshare. There is a clear emphasis here on the offer being accurate, factual and complete, without hidden clauses or misrepresentation.
  
  
• Exchange Programs
  We also advocate total transparency on exchange programs – covering information on methods, terms, conditions and fees applicable.  
  
  
• Resale Weeks
  Under COE guidelines, developers / marketers offering resale weeks must extend the benefits of a cooling off period to new purchasers.
  
  
• Rentals
  The rental clause in the agreement will clearly explain modalities and payment structure to customers.
  
  
• Clubs & Points
  Another stipulation in the COE is the accurate description of terms and conditions relating to the reservation / assignment / accommodation – helping retain clarity and avoiding ambiguity in the minds of purchasers.
  

As you can see, the COE aims at total compliance from members, to give the customer the kind of reassurance he could be looking for. The reach and scope of the COE covers all methods of customer contact and the media options available to marketers – including press, print, direct mail, radio, digital media, TV and outdoor.

Members of AIRDA commit to abide by the stipulated guidelines in law and spirit and ensure an extended compliance with subsidiaries, agents, employees, support staff, advertising and marketing agencies, sales and marketing personnel.

Companies that stick together, grow together. Here’s an invitation to new resort owners to join hands in building a bigger, stronger AIRDA.

B. S. Rathor
Chairman, AIRDA