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About us
As the UKs largest independent travel agent Hays Travel, specialises in providing good value, quality holidays alongside excellent customer service. From its inception, the business expanded steadily with shops cropping up across the north-east. In 1990, the first Hays Travel call centre opened, and in 1995 the Hays Travel Independence Group was formed – a consortium of independent travel retailers retaining their own independence and branding, but benefitting from Hays Travel’s buying power, technology, and back office functions. 2019 saw Hays Travel take a strong lead in the industry and acquired the Thomas Cook retail estate; providing re-employment opportunities to former staff who were made redundant following the collapse of the travel giant. Another year later in 2020; Hays Travel took over all 20 Tailor ...Read more
Hays Travel - About Us
As the UKs largest independent travel agent Hays Travel, specialises in providing good value, quality holidays alongside excellent customer service.
From its inception, the business expanded steadily with shops cropping up across the north-east. In 1990, the first Hays Travel call centre opened, and in 1995 the Hays Travel Independence Group was formed – a consortium of independent travel retailers retaining their own independence and branding, but benefitting from Hays Travel’s buying power, technology, and back office functions.
2019 saw Hays Travel take a strong lead in the industry and acquired the Thomas Cook retail estate; providing re-employment opportunities to former staff who were made redundant following the collapse of the travel giant.
Another year later in 2020; Hays Travel took over all 20 Tailor Made Travel shops as well as retaining around 100 employees.
Today, Hays Travel has huge buying power and invests heavily in state-of-the-art technology. The company has an award-winning in-house training programme, won Best High Street Large Agency at the Agent Achievement Awards, and is recognised in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list, as well as the Sunday Times’ 100 Best Companies to Work For’ list.
Fully ABTA, ATOL and IATA bonded, it offers its customers complete financial security, and its independent status means staff are able to offer impartial advice and an extensive range of travel opportunities. The company works with hundreds of suppliers to ensure this.
Company Name : Hays Travel
News & announcements
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09 Apr 24
NEWS
Hays Travel’s rebranded tour operator makes wavesHays Travel’s dedicated team of cruise specialists is celebrating a stellar first quarter of 2024. ...Read moreHays Travel’s rebranded tour operator makes waves - News & announcementsHays Travel’s dedicated team of cruise specialists is celebrating a stellar first quarter of 2024. The new rebranded Vista team of 14 specialists exceeded their own targets for support offered to agents, cruise bookings made, and cruise launches delivered for operators. Vista – the B2B-only tour operator - has a dedicated in-house product team to support Hays Travel’s agents in branches, personal travel consultants and Independence Group members. Kathleen Molloy, Vista’s Head of Sales, said: “Cruise is a priority area for Vista, so as well as improving our product offer, we also invested in a dedicated cruise sales team.” “They are equipped with the expertise to support the agents working with us, so that they in turn can meet their customers’ needs.” Since the start of 2024 there are 32 cruise lines available to sell and package through Vista. The cruise specialists attended dedicated training and worked with cruise line partners to fully understand their product. “The team made full use of newly integrated TProfile quote platform to offer bespoke and interactive quotes for our customers.” The Vista Cruise team are based around the UK. They gathered at Hays Travel’s head office for a cruise training session that was specially prepared by Catriona Parsons, Hays Travel’s Head Of Cruise, and facilitated by Cruise Engagement manager, Julie Simpson. “The impact of Vista’s new specialist cruise team has been huge. Sales during the first three months of this year were meteoric,” Parsons said.Related News Stories: Hays rebrands tour operator unit as standalone B2B brand Vista Partner News - TravelMole
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29 Feb 24
NEWS
Hays Travel Independence Group set for UK conferenceHays Travel Independence Group members will gather in Leeds next week, for the independent consortia’s ...Read moreHays Travel Independence Group set for UK conference - News & announcementsHays Travel Independence Group members will gather in Leeds next week, for the independent consortia’s annual UK Conference. Hays Travel is gearing up for ithe annual UK Conference, which takes place in Leeds next week. It is hosted at the Queen’s Hotel, and independent travel agency members will hear insights from keynote speakers and panelists on the ‘Year of Two Peaks’ theme. The conference is supported by Jet2holidays and Norwegian Cruise Line. Head of Hays Travel Independence Group, Harriet Thompson, said: “Through our UK conference we want to support all our IG members’ businesses to thrive. We are excited to welcome our consortia to Leeds. Nothing beats getting together in person.” Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, Hays Travel’s COO, said: “Business is buoyant for our Independence Group members, who work hard to understand their customers and exceed their requirements.” "For some of our consortia, this was their first experience of January peaks and they have seen phenomenal success.”Related News Stories: Hays Travel Payday campaign rounds off record-breaking January ... Royal Caribbean International - TravelMole Partner News - TravelMole
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28 Feb 24
NEWS
Hays Travel plans to hire a foreign exchange cashier for every branchHays Travel plans to recruit hundreds of seasonal foreign exchange consultants. It wants to ensure ...Read moreHays Travel plans to hire a foreign exchange cashier for every branch - News & announcementsHays Travel plans to recruit hundreds of seasonal foreign exchange consultants. It wants to ensure all 470 branches have a dedicated cashier over the peak summer holiday period. It follows a successful foreign exchange pilot scheme last year. No experience is required, as successful applicants will complete a comprehensive three-week training programme including two weeks in-branch. They can choose the hours and days they work, with the option to work part-time. The announcement follows a successful January. Jonathon Woodall-Johnston Hays Travel COO, said: “We have to keep up with what our customers want, not least because they voted us the nation’s favourite foreign exchange provider.”Related News Stories: Hays Travel acquires agency group Travel House Hays Travel Payday campaign rounds off record-breaking January ... Intrepid Travel - TravelMole British Travel Awards winners announced Carnival Cruise Line - TravelMole Partner News - TravelMole British Travel Awards - TravelMole DidaTravel - TravelMole
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30 Jan 24
NEWS
Hays Travel Payday campaign rounds off record-breaking JanuaryThe Hays Travel January Payday campaign drove its best ever trading weekend on 27-28 January. It ...Read moreHays Travel Payday campaign rounds off record-breaking January - News & announcementsThe Hays Travel January Payday campaign drove its best ever trading weekend on 27-28 January. It rounded off consecutive record trading throughout January for retail branches and Hays Travel Independence Group. Cruise and long-haul bookings particularly strong over the Payday campaign period. Jane Schumm, Retail Director, said: “We are delighted with our Payday campaign, which we shared to reassure people that there are still plenty of great holidays to be had.” “Many are making the most of low deposit and direct debit options to spread the cost of their holiday.” Hays travel will finish this month ahead of target with record sales across all areas of our business in January, said Dame Irene Hays. “Despite the squeeze on personal finances, we are seeing people continue to prioritise their holiday plans, with increasing numbers planning to venture further afield or try a cruise.”Related News Stories:
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16 Jan 24
NEWS
Hays Travel reports second consecutive weekend of record salesHays Travel just had the best day in the company’s history on Saturday. It topped ...Read moreHays Travel reports second consecutive weekend of record sales - News & announcementsHays Travel just had the best day in the company’s history on Saturday. It topped the record trading Hays Travel reported for 6 January. Dame Irene Hays said: “Saturday was the best trading day in history and a record day for our Hays Travel Independence Group members too.” “Despite the ongoing cost of living challenges, we know that people are willing to prioritise their annual holiday.” “Booking now means that our customers can access great deals from operators and secure their chosen destination.” To meet additional demand, approximately 90% of Hays Travel branches are open on Sundays, with many opening for extended hours during January. Popular destinations such as Spain, Portugal, and Turkey continued to be top sellers for summer 2024. Branches are also reporting increased interest in holidays to North America, particularly New York and Orlando. For long haul holidays, Hays Travel has seen increased bookings for luxury hotels in the Far East, namely Thailand, Bali, and Singapore.Related News Stories: Hays Travel acquires agency group Travel House Hays Travel ditches skirt-only rule The 50 best and worst travel companies for cancellation refunds ... Fiji Times says no talks between State and tourism stakeholders in ... Solomon Islands Update - TravelMole Arkansas's scenic byways lead to fall color Travel Agent Busted for Fraud - TravelMole In today's tough economy, beware of the web's many scam-a-ramas ... Tourist killed by hippo in Kenya New Berlin airport on hold again
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11 Jan 24
NEWS
Hays Travel acquires Holiday With Us agency storesHays Travel has acquired the former Holiday With Us Group and its three shops in March, ...Read moreHays Travel acquires Holiday With Us agency stores - News & announcementsHays Travel has acquired the former Holiday With Us Group and its three shops in March, Spalding and Wisbech. The new branches will trade as Hays Travel from 10 January, and on the same day six full-time equivalent staff will join Hays Travel. This includes former Trusted Package Company (Holiday with Us Group) owner, Christina Fitzpatrick. Christina Fitzpatrick said: "I have loved running my own travel business, but now is the right time for me to step back a little to focus on my young family.” “The new arrangement means I can stay in travel and will continue to work alongside my excellent team." The three stores are located in Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire. Dame Irene Hays said: "We welcome Christina and her team to Hays Travel. In Holiday With Us Group Christina has established a high-quality business.” “We are confident that this latest acquisition fits well with our strategic ambitions." The acquisition will create new jobs with Hays Travel recruiting staff in all three branches.Related News Stories: Hays Travel acquires agency group Travel House CHTA AND ASTA team up to boost member benefits United Airlines escapes prosecution over 'chairman's flight' scandal ... Jet2holidays announces second VIP conference - TravelMole
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28 Dec 23
NEWS
Former M&S retail director joins Hays Travel boardHays Travel is welcoming Helen Milford to its board on 1 January 2024. Hays ...Read moreFormer M&S retail director joins Hays Travel board - News & announcementsHays Travel is welcoming Helen Milford to its board on 1 January 2024. Hays Travel has appointed renowned operations director, Helen Milford to its board as a non-executive director. She takes a seat on the board from 1 January 2024. Milford brings years of experience across retail and customer service in blue-chip organisations. These include Boots, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer where she was Retail Director until September. “I am delighted to be joining Hays Travel at what is a pivotal and exciting time as the business continues to grow,” she said. “As a business with such a strong culture and values I am really impressed with how colleagues are truly empowered to deliver for their customers.” Dame Irene Hays said: “She shares our values, and - just like Hays Travel - was born in Seaham right here in the North East of England.” "Helen is the perfect fit for Hays Travel and we are looking forward to working with her in the new year.” Milford recently attended Hays Travel’s retail conference in Portugal. “What I witnessed at conference was Hays Travel’s clear focus on developing talent,” she added. “It is no surprise that their workforce is so engaged.” It has been a year of positive growth for Hays Travel. The group acquired 45 retail branches when it acquired Just Go in September, and a further 16 with the acquisition of Travel House, announced in December. -
21 Dec 23
NEWS
Hays Travel Broughton store reopensFollowing a £200k refurbishment programme, Hays Travel Broughton this week reopened. Situated close to the ...Read moreHays Travel Broughton store reopens - News & announcementsFollowing a £200k refurbishment programme, Hays Travel Broughton this week reopened. Situated close to the Wales–England border, it is one of its largest travel agency stores. The store was opened by Thomas Cook in 2000 and was one of hundreds to transfer to Hays Travel when the entire portfolio of former Thomas Cook shops was acquired by Hays. "We can't wait to welcome our customers back. After the collapse of Thomas Cook in 2019, and then the pandemic, this coming January will be the first for several years with nothing stopping us," said Branch Manager Emma Manley. Jane Schumm, Hays Travel's Director of Retail, said: "We have a three-year refurbishment strategy and this has been our most ambitious and expensive refit to date.” “We are committed to making branches more appealing and welcoming, while also improving energy efficiency across our retail estate." Along with Dame Irene Hays, suppliers including Celebrity Cruises, Scenic River Cruises, Gold Medal, Jet2 Holidays, If Only, and Do Something Different met staff and customers as the travel agency reopened. -
23 Nov 23
NEWS
Hays Travel acquires agency group Travel HouseHays Travel has acquired Travel House and its 16 stores across South Wales. Martin Morgan, ...Read moreHays Travel acquires agency group Travel House - News & announcementsHays Travel has acquired Travel House and its 16 stores across South Wales. Martin Morgan, who has been a member of the Hays Travel Independence Group since 2021, and Jacob Hughes, Group MD of owner Swansea.com, shared the news with their team today. Hughes said: “Having been a Hays Travel IG member for a couple of years now, we already feel part of the Hays family. There is no other organisation we would trust our team’s future with.” “We know they are in great hands." “We joined Hays Travel Independence Group in 2021, after weathering the storm of Covid,“ said Martin Morgan “Now is the time for Travel House to expand and thrive even further under the guardianship of Hays and Dame Irene.” The acquisition will not impact Travel House day-to-day operations or affect customers in the short term, Hays Travel COO Jonathon Woodall-Johnston says. Any refits will be added into the company’s 2024 plans. “Our teams will work closely with our newest colleagues to offer support and development opportunities.” Dame Irene Hays said: “We are very pleased with this latest acquisition, which further supports our strategic priorities. We wish Martin and Jacob every success with their future plans.” This latest acquisition announcement follows Hays Travel’s addition of Just Go’s 45 branches across the North West and North Wales. -
15 Nov 23
NEWS
Hays rebrands tour operator unit as standalone B2B brand VistaHays Travel Tour Operator (HTOL) is getting a new lease of life as a standalone ...Read moreHays rebrands tour operator unit as standalone B2B brand Vista - News & announcementsHays Travel Tour Operator (HTOL) is getting a new lease of life as a standalone brand called Vista. HTOL will be rebranded Vista from the end of 2023. As Vista, the B2B-only tour operator will offer travel agents a product offering across cities, beach, cruise-and-stay, and touring holidays It will have a dedicated in-house product team Kathleen Molloy will be Head of Vista Sales and Product “We have done a lot of work to build HTOL’s expertise and reputation over the past three years and now is the right time to rebrand,” she said. It’s an opportunity to move our operation to the next level.” Sales and product for HTOL have been headed up by former Travel2 manager Molloy, since May 2022. Tracey Luke will be Head of Vista Operations. She said: “We are focused on delivering exceptional service, efficiently and accurately, every time." For aftersales, the Vista operations team will support agents and supplier partners, offering a 24-hour emergency line for customers at UK airports or overseas. Lisa McAuley, Hays Travel Director of Strategy, said: “The time is right for us to refresh and relaunch HTOL and we are excited to see the opportunities that emerge as we develop Vista as a standalone B2B brand.” -
12 Nov 23
NEWS
Hays Travel set for Portugal conferenceHays Travel is all set to welcome 600 delegates to Portugal for its largest overseas ...Read moreHays Travel set for Portugal conference - News & announcementsHays Travel is all set to welcome 600 delegates to Portugal for its largest overseas travel conference. It kicked off today at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura, and runs until 16 November. Hays Travel managers from branches across the UK will join senior colleagues and supplier partners for a full agenda of supplier showcases, presentations, workshops and networking. Dame Irene Hays said: “Our annual Retail Conference is an important time for us. It’s an opportunity to connect with our retail team who have worked exceptionally hard this year.” “We have lined up an impressive programme of speakers, an expert panel, and networking events - all sure to inform and inspire our retail branch managers and senior colleagues.” Headline sponsors for the Hays Travel Retail Conference are easyJet Holidays, Mastercard, Riviera Travel, Virgin Voyages, and Visit Algarve. Retail Director, Jane Schumm, said: “We encourage our colleagues to bring their personality to work every day, so naturally we provide networking and entertaining evening events.” “It’s a chance for them to catch up and share ideas.” The conference theme is ‘Power of You.’ It will encourage colleagues to value their expertise and Hays Travel managers will share their approach to deliver excellent customer service. Consumer behaviour expert, Ken Hughes will offer insights on this in his keynote speech. -
12 Sep 23
NEWS
Hays Travel acquires franchise partner Just Go TravelHays Travel has acquired the Just Go Travel portfolio of travel agency stores across the ...Read moreHays Travel acquires franchise partner Just Go Travel - News & announcementsHays Travel has acquired the Just Go Travel portfolio of travel agency stores across the North West and North Wales. It has acquired 45 out of 46 shops in these regions. Just Go has worked with Hays Travel as both an Independence Group member and franchisee. Just Go Travel’s owner and MD, Don Bircham, joined Hays Travel as an Independence Group member over 22 years ago, before becoming a franchisee in 2015. Don said: “It gives me great comfort that all my staff have found a great home with Hays Travel, our partners for over 20 years. All 300 jobs are safe and secure.” “My thanks to Dame Irene Hays for her support in recent years, and of course to her late husband John.” Dame Irene Hays said: “Don Bircham is a true entrepreneur and among the most experienced people in the travel industry. Just Go is an outstanding business and we are all delighted with this latest acquisition.”
VIDEOS
Apprenticeships at Hays Travel
Our apprenticeship programmes put you at the heart of the action. Every year we take on apprentices nationwide; helping develop their potential, support their goals, and inspire their futures. You’ll learn, earn, and bring the sunshine to Hays Travel. Whatever your background, skills or passions, there are plenty of opportunities for you to explore.
Want to learn the ins and outs of business but don’t think College or Sixth Form is for you? Or maybe you want a head-start in your career by gaining valued hands-on experience in a specific field. Whatever your reason for joining us, there’s a perfect fit at Hays Travel.
🔸 RETAIL APPRENTICESHIP 🔸
Our retail teams are at the core of everything we do. Showcasing sales skills, achieving targets, building lasting relationships with customers, and making their dreams come true. It’s in our branches where the amazing moments happen. Find out how our retail teams work whilst you work towards a Level 3 Travel Consultant qualification.
Our Retail Apprentices get to know our products inside out. They help us drive new business and find the most effective ways to sell to our customers whilst developing their customer service and selling skills to become a rounded member of our fast-paced retail teams. If want to develop your passion for travel, this is a perfect start!
🔹 HEAD OFFICE APPRENTICESHIPS 🔹
Our Head Office in Sunderland City Centre is a hub of excitement and home to over 35 different departments. As a Head Office Apprentice, you will get the chance to work with some of these teams to support our retail, homeworking, franchises, and independence group divisions. All whilst working towards a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner qualification.
Marketing:
Join one of our Marketing teams and gain knowledge into how Hays Travel creates marketing communications strategies and find the most effective ways to sell to our customers both online and offline. From Commercial, Events, and Product, to Creative, Social Media, and Digital Marketing, we have some exciting apprenticeship opportunities.
Finance:
Join our Finance Department and gain hands-on experience in accounting and financial management while working alongside experienced professionals. With teams specialising in Payroll, Banking, and Forex, this is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking to kick-start their career in finance.
Support Services:
Join one of our Support Services teams and gain knowledge of how Hays Travel works behind the scenes. Learn our selling systems software, understand our aftersales processes, assist with training new recruits in the business, or help to improve our customer services and support systems.
Find out more about Apprenticeships at Hays Travel & APPLY here: https://careers.haystravel.co.uk/apprenticeships
Check out our socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaysTravelCareers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haystraveljobs/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hays_travel
X: https://twitter.com/HaysTravel
Want to learn the ins and outs of business but don’t think College or Sixth Form is for you? Or maybe you want a head-start in your career by gaining valued hands-on experience in a specific field. Whatever your reason for joining us, there’s a perfect fit at Hays Travel.
🔸 RETAIL APPRENTICESHIP 🔸
Our retail teams are at the core of everything we do. Showcasing sales skills, achieving targets, building lasting relationships with customers, and making their dreams come true. It’s in our branches where the amazing moments happen. Find out how our retail teams work whilst you work towards a Level 3 Travel Consultant qualification.
Our Retail Apprentices get to know our products inside out. They help us drive new business and find the most effective ways to sell to our customers whilst developing their customer service and selling skills to become a rounded member of our fast-paced retail teams. If want to develop your passion for travel, this is a perfect start!
🔹 HEAD OFFICE APPRENTICESHIPS 🔹
Our Head Office in Sunderland City Centre is a hub of excitement and home to over 35 different departments. As a Head Office Apprentice, you will get the chance to work with some of these teams to support our retail, homeworking, franchises, and independence group divisions. All whilst working towards a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner qualification.
Marketing:
Join one of our Marketing teams and gain knowledge into how Hays Travel creates marketing communications strategies and find the most effective ways to sell to our customers both online and offline. From Commercial, Events, and Product, to Creative, Social Media, and Digital Marketing, we have some exciting apprenticeship opportunities.
Finance:
Join our Finance Department and gain hands-on experience in accounting and financial management while working alongside experienced professionals. With teams specialising in Payroll, Banking, and Forex, this is an excellent opportunity for someone who is looking to kick-start their career in finance.
Support Services:
Join one of our Support Services teams and gain knowledge of how Hays Travel works behind the scenes. Learn our selling systems software, understand our aftersales processes, assist with training new recruits in the business, or help to improve our customer services and support systems.
Find out more about Apprenticeships at Hays Travel & APPLY here: https://careers.haystravel.co.uk/apprenticeships
Check out our socials:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HaysTravelCareers
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haystraveljobs/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hays_travel
X: https://twitter.com/HaysTravel
