Dunstable family, independent businesses: Hays Travel
By Cllr Peter Hollick, Past Dunstable Town Mayor.
Searching for your dream vacation.
While the internet enables many to search for information about those places they would like to visit, to book their holidays, flights and hotels, there are still many who prefer to visit a trusted travel agent for suggestions and up to date advice.
Hays Travel was founded by John Hays in Sunderland in 1980. He was joined by his wife, Irene; so began a small, private, independent, family owned business. Since John Hays passing in 2020, the business is now owned and chaired by Dame Irene Hays.
In 2019 Hays acquired all the Thomas Cook stores. The business now has the largest number of retail travel shops in the UK. In 2023 the business also acquired 61 branches from two other businesses, in North West England and in South Wales.
Dunstable has seen other travel agents which have come and gone from the town centre. The town was ready to welcome Hays to the Quadrant helping to bring a more diverse offering to the shopping centre.
James Little, local Branch Manager, outlined the services Hays has to offer, “We have a wide range of travel services including holiday bookings, flights, cruises, tours and tailor-made travel experiences.”
Hays Travel has built a formidable reputation over the years giving excellent customer service and expert advice.
For those who want a personal touch to help them decide their next adventure whether at home or abroad, a visit to the Quadrant Shopping Centre would not go amiss.