Travel Counsellors celebrates 20 years at U.K. event

Travel Counsellors marked its 20th anniversary in Manchester recently, with a star-studded celebration and a recap of a strong 2014.

Speaking at the conference, Managing Director Steve Byrne told delegates that the company’s global sales for the financial year end (Oct. 31) were up $760m from $680m the previous year, said a release from Travel Counsellors. The UK business grew by 11 per cent over the past year for both its leisure and business division, with growth of 53 per cent over the past five years. The Canadian business grew by 20 per cent over the past year. On average, each Travel Counsellor grew their individual income by 10 per cent last year, with 620 Travel Counsellors achieving their best ever sales months in 2014, the company said.

During Steve’s presentation he outlined plans for growth over the next five years focusing on enhanced marketing and brand awareness, improved margins, corporate travel and international expansion.

An array of special guests helped Travel Counsellors celebrate their success, with over 1,500 delegates in attendance. At a welcome bash hosted by TV personality Vernon Kay, guests took in a performance from the ‘people’s tenor’ Russell Watson and an entertaining set from stand-up comedian Sean Lock. Attendees at Saturday evening’s Oscar-themed gala dinner and awards ceremony were treated to a performance by pop stars Simply Red.