Many people from a number of different backgrounds have started their own successful travel businesses. Here is just a small selection of success stories from members of The Global Travel Group.
All the support you need
In October 1995 Mel and Linda Bramley launched their travel business. Originally from a teaching background they took full advantage of the support provided by The Global Travel Group in order to reach their full capabilities. "As an independent agent, we thought we'd feel isolated, but we enjoy getting together with fellow members and Global staff at meetings and events, it's like being a member of a club," said Linda. "You don't need to feel alone, the Group will help you go as far as you want to go and provide you with all the support you need."
A step ahead
Having spent five years travelling around the world on business, Paul Siviter decided to launch his own business venture in the exciting travel industry by joining The Global Travel Group. "I chose to join The Global Travel Group because the business model was the best fit with my own strategy and the product offering was a step ahead of the other consortia," explains Paul. "The first challenge was to get the phones ringing but with perseverance, we have steadily grown and already enjoy the benefit of many loyal customers."
The best package
In 2004, lecturer and cable jointer Dawn and Dave Jones decided to change their careers and start their own business in the travel industry choosing to join The Global Travel Group. Since opening their travel agency in 2004, their team has now doubled in size and they offer their customers a great variety of holidays from 10 weeks in Malta to cottages in Cheshire and North Wales. "The key to our success is our optimism and excellent customer service," said Dawn. "We always make our customers feel welcome and try to offer them exactly what they want - we believe that's why we get a lot of repeat business from customers and friends."
Cost effective option
Being a subpostmaster, Roy Weatherup saw the opportunity of integrating a travel agency within his existing business. He chose The Global Travel Group as it was the most cost effective option for all his requirements providing both security and back office support. Roy sells a variety of holidays from flight only to tailor-made and enjoys 90% repeat business. Manager Kath Lightbody said, "The footfall has been amazing, and I have already surpassed my expectations and targets. We did have the advantage of the automatic footfall of the Post Office, but being a member of the Group has given us more time to focus on selling holidays knowing that our client's money is safe with the Global protection scheme."
Advanced technology
After 15 fast paced years as a sales manager, Pete Forsdike is enjoying a new lease of life after acquiring a travel agency. Impressed with the technology, service and product The Global Travel Group had to offer, Pete moved quickly to sign up his new business. Three years later Pete's travel agency is hugely successful enjoying a thriving business with many loyal customers. "The reason I chose The Global Travel Group, is really down to three key features: the advanced technology, ATOL protection and Group buying power," said Pete. "The specialised technology offered by The Global Travel Group enables me to efficiently promote my offers online with a high response rate. The Group's ultimate reservation system, TritonSearch, is instrumental to our success. It allows me to identify all operators on a price range basis and to seek out many great opportunities."
Commercial buying power
Established in 2001, Clive Davies' travel agency has a brilliant name in the local community and benefits from many repeat customers and referrals. "We pride ourselves on the service that we deliver. People want a personal touch when booking their holidays, something that the internet can't provide, and that is exactly what we offer," explains Clive. "People don't always buy on price, remember people buy from people. Previously, I worked in banking and craved a job that I could enjoy - now I work in travel and I love it! It's a happy and fun environment as you are helping people find their perfect holiday. As a member of The Global Travel Group, we gain the commercial buying power and security of being part of a large group. This means that we can effectively compete in the market and be safe in the knowledge that we are financially secure."
For more information visit www.globaltravelgroup.com [1]