Hays Travel confirms Just Go Travel acquisition

45 of the brands branches across the North West and North Wales will fall under the Hays Travel banner.

Just Go Travel's owner and MD Don Bircham previously joined Hays Travel as an Independence Group over 22 years ago, and became a franchisee in 2015.

He said of the acquisition: "Although there has to be an element of sadness that my journey has come to an end, it gives me great comfort that all my staff have found a great home with Hays Travel, our partners for over 20 years. All 300 jobs are safe and secure, with little disruption to day-to-day activity and better opportunities for career development and progression.

"I pay tribute to Lindsey Barber, our retail director, the senior management team, and all the staff who have delivered underlying profits (EBITDA) of £6M for the last financial year.

"I'm not quite ready yet for retirement and I'm delighted that we will retain our very first store in Mold, North Wales and operate it under the Hays Travel brand.

"I also intend to take a more active role in our bar and restaurant portfolio, as well as developing the inbound tourism opportunity that has grown in Wrexham and North Wales since the involvement of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney at my beloved Wrexham F.C," Don concluded. 

Dame Irene Hays added: "This acquisition has come at a perfect time for Hays Travel as we focus on executing our strategic priorities around cruise and experiential travel. I wish Don all the very best success for the future."

www.hays-travel.co.uk