Is Hays Travel still in business?

Hays Travel Limited is an independent travel agent chain headquartered in Sunderland, England. As of 2023, the company has the largest number of retail travel shops in the United Kingdom. A Thomas Cook branch in Denton, Greater Manchester taken over by Hays Travel.



Yes, Hays Travel is very much still in business in 2026 and continues to be the UK's largest independent travel agency. Following its massive expansion when it acquired the Thomas Cook retail estate in 2019, the company has remained robust, reporting strong profits in 2025. In early 2026, the company’s leadership, including COO Jonathon Woodall-Johnston, announced a new strategic focus on "productivity and performance," aiming to modernize its selling systems and boost the profitability of its 450+ high-street branches. Despite rising costs for rent and energy, Hays Travel is currently undergoing a significant store refit programme to introduce energy-efficient features. It remains a staple of the British high street, successfully competing against online-only platforms by offering personalized service, foreign exchange, and a diverse range of holiday packages that cater to the "rebound" in both long-haul and cruise travel.

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Hays Travel Limited is an independent travel agent chain headquartered in Sunderland, England. As of 2023, the company has the largest number of retail travel shops in the United Kingdom.

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In the 2022 fiscal year, Hays Travel Limited reported a profit after tax of nearly 13 million British pounds, recovering from the significant loss recorded with the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines.

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A key ingredient to the Independence Group's success is our passion for travel and people; as an independent travel agent with over 40 years of experience, we have real insight into the business. With a dedicated support team we offer a personal service.

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The majority of our suppliers now issue e-tickets. Information relating to your booking will be sent to you within 48 hours of the booking being made. There are, however, some exceptions. Some low cost airlines now require boarding cards to be printed before check-in.

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HAYS TRAVEL TAKES FLIGHT – AND STILL ROOM FOR MORE ON BOARD Hays Travel, the independent travel agent that bought the former Thomas Cook retail portfolio, saving 555 shops and more than 2,000 jobs just a month ago, took to the skies today (November 12).

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We've come a long way, and we're growing all the time. Our franchise product could give you the chance to run your own profitable business as part of the Hays Travel family. Take a look at this brochure to find out more. Ready to start your journey?

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People still choose a travel agent to help them book their travel experience, whether it is for business or pleasure. A travel agent helps travelers navigate any issues that may arise. They can even help save travelers money because they know what kinds of discounts and packages are out there.

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Hays Travel is the UK's largest independent travel agency with a strong high street retail presence.

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Generally not, and especially not for short distances. For the most part, any discount you'd get from using a travel agent would be for a combined package. Still, it never hurts to ask if your travel agent can get you a deal on your flight.

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1. Jet2holidays. Jet2holidays is now the UK's largest tour operator and has won awards for its excellent service at reasonable prices.

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Do travel agents get discounts on flights? Generally not, and especially not for short distances. For the most part, any discount you'd get from using a travel agent would be for a combined package. Still, it never hurts to ask if your travel agent can get you a deal on your flight.

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