Travel giant Hays snaps up rival and 15 branches

NORTH East independent holiday specialist Hays Travel has snapped up a business and its 15 branches across the UK.

- COREENA FORD

The Sunderland group has acquired Shropshire-based Polka Dot Travel for an undisclosed sum, expanding the new addition’s list of holiday suppliers for its customers.

Established in 2013, Polka Dot Travel’s 15 branches spread across the North West, Midlands and North Wales will continue to trade as normal and all of its employees’ jobs are safe.

Jane Schumm, retail director of Hays Travel, said Helen Johnson, Philippa Wilcox and Mark Johnson had launched and grown a business with a reputation for exceptional customer experience and the team for their knowledge and professionalism.

She said: “We are delighted to welcome Polka Dot Travel's people to our Hays Travel group - their expertise, experience, and enthusiasm for travel are a significant factor in our decision to acquire the business from Helen, Philippa and Mark.