Theme revealed for Hays Travel Independence Group conference

Hays Travel Independence Group members will gather for the annual UK conference under the theme ‘Year of Two Peaks’, it has been revealed.

The event, taking place in Leeds’ Queen’s Hotel from March 5-6, will be held on the back of “buoyant” trading, according to Hays Travel’s chief operating officer.

Jonathon Woodall-Johnston said: “For some of our consortia, this was their first experience of January peaks and they have seen phenomenal success – which is an excellent start to the year for their business.”

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The conference, supported by Jet2holidays and Norwegian Cruise Line, will feature a line-up of keynote speakers and panellists.

Woodall-Johnston added: “The ‘Year of Two Peaks’ theme for this year’s conference is all about sharing our broader market insight with members so they can make the most of the opportunities [brought by] additional capacity and changes in customer behaviour.”

Harriet Thompson, head of Hays Travel Independence Group, said many members had reported their best-ever January and recorded “consecutive record sales for the first four weekends of 2024”.

She added: “Members including Miles Morgan, Not Just Travel and Designer Travel all reported good trading and footfall, particularly from repeat customers who are spending more on bucket-list holidays including long-haul destinations and luxury cruises.

“Through our UK conference we want to support all our independence group members’ businesses to thrive. We are excited to welcome our consortia to Leeds on March 5 and 6 – nothing beats getting together in person.”