How an incentive trip to Switzerland inspired insurance agents to win

Incentive trips start in a winner’s imagination. Insurance carrier EMC understood how important destination selection is in a motivating incentive travel experience. Choosing Switzerland and thoughtfully designing every detail made independent agents feel recognized and appreciated. 20% more winners qualified for this travel reward compared to other years. 

Meaningful motivation for independent insurance agents

EMC’s marketing-led brand refresh made the trip’s timing especially advantageous for building a sense of belonging. Incentive travel program KPIs focused on increasing the productivity and profitability of independent agents who sell their products. The reward trip encouraged high performers to connect with organizational leaders. 

New generations of earners 

EMC’s audience of U.S.-based agents has trended younger and more adventurous in recent years. But with most winners in their 40s to 60s, Millennial and Gen X preferences heavily influenced event strategy. That meant designing an incentive trip around experiences that made winners feel genuinely cared for. 

Incentive travel hospitality at scale

Managing a program of this size required thoughtful coordination—from rooming assignments to transfers. The Fairmont Le Montreux Palace served as the primary property with two additional luxury hotels housing guests. To ensure winners staying at the two partner properties felt just as celebrated, we secured premium suites overlooking Lake Geneva. 

Cultural connections designed to delight 

What better welcome to Switzerland than a cocktail party on the cobblestone streets in the medieval-walled village of Gruyères? Alpine horn blowers, flag throwers and cask-wearing St. Bernard dogs surprised guests, creating a festive atmosphere. Later, cowbell ringers dressed in traditional Swiss attire invited everyone into local restaurants for a fondue dinner that showcased the region’s famous namesake cheese.  

One-of-a-kind curated venues  

The trip highlighted the destination’s cultural landmarks. Hosting off-site functions in distinctive settings created unforgettable experiences. At the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, winners immersed themselves in the energy and spirit of the games. Portes des Iris, an 18th century farmhouse and garden estate, proved an idyllic backdrop for building relationships.  

Desirable day trips 

Winners explored Montreux at their own pace, witnessing the resort town’s awe-inspiring landscapes, including Matterhorn Mountain. Day trips also gave them flexibility to experience the rustic charm of countryside villages and the international intrigue of urban centers. They visited Bern, Gstaad, Interlaken and Geneva.