Most of our travel consultants have never worked in travel before, but some have travelled the world.
Not only has Andy lived in south and central America, the Caribbean, Papua New Guinea and the UK, but he’s also spent years on long-haul flights around the world in several previous careers including furniture retail.
But in 2022 Andy decided to invest in a franchise and although he has never worked in travel before, he’s now booking 40-50 holidays a month.
If Andy’s business growth continues at the same pace – he has already taken on one new member of staff and plans to recruit at least another two – he aims to book 50 holidays a week by the end of 2023.
“I am staggered by how many people have booked their holidays with me and the volume of business,” says Andy modestly.
“Each month has gone from strength-to-strength and I am really looking forward to what 2023 will bring.”
So what’s Andy’s secret and why are so many people booking holidays through him?
“I guess it’s down to good old-fashioned service,” says Andy, who receives five-star reviews on Trustpilot.
“I grew up in a world where the customer is key, as is attention to detail – and when you are arranging someone’s holiday, that’s what counts.”
Andy insists that while anyone can push a few buttons to find a flight or hotel, he offers “everything the best travel agents offer and more”.
As part of travel giant Hays, Not Just Travel has access to 450 operators which means that Andy can sell thousands of holidays which are all fully protected by ABTA ensuring his customer’s peace of mind.
He also has access to exclusive deals with Not Just Travel’s key trade partners and is a member of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) and deals with every cruise supplier direct.
“I make sure customers get the absolute best value for every penny they spend. I speak and build relationships with the tour operators and suppliers to source the absolute best seats, rooms, flights and to build bespoke itineraries for everyone.”
However, like most of our new travel consultants, Andy had no idea of how to book a holiday when he joined, he gained his knowledge by completing our intensive training when he joined The Travel Franchise in 2021.
He also had access to our personal Business Development Managers, travel professionals with decades of experience, to help advise him on how to build his agency.
But, at the end of the day, his success is ultimately a result of his passion and drive.
Andy loves his job so much he considers it a hobby and enjoys every minute that he spends creating memorable experiences for customers, tailor-making each holiday and providing round-the-clock personal support, if needed.
“With my passion for travel and previous business experience, customers receive a completely different level of service when travelling with me.”
Follow Andy on his Facebook page.
