Of course! Hays Travel is a fascinating success story in the UK travel industry, known for its dramatic rise and unique business model. Here are some of the most interesting facts about the company:
The most dramatic fact is that in 2019, Hays Travel famously acquired the entire UK retail network of the collapsed giant Thomas Cook (555 shops). Overnight, they went from around 190 shops to over 750, saving around 2,500 jobs. This bold move made them the UK’s largest independent travel agent overnight.
Despite its massive size, Hays Travel remains a privately-owned, family-run business. It was founded by John and Irene Hays in 1980 in Seaham, County Durham, with a single shop. Irene remains the Managing Director, and the company is known for its strong, personal values and lack of corporate shareholders.
Hays Travel operates on a unique entrepreneurial franchise-style model. Branch managers are called “Hays Travel Independents” and run their shops as if they were their own businesses. They earn a significant share of their shop’s profits, fostering a highly motivated and customer-focused management team.
Their Sunderland headquarters is known as the “Hays Travel Academy” and is located in the converted former Thomas Middlecott Academy school. It’s a massive hub for training, administration, and their in-house tour operation team.