Specialist tour operator Involved Holidays has expanded its team with two new staff to support growing demand for walking holidays.
Hayley Sumner, who has worked for Thomas Cook and First Choice in the past, has joined as operations executive while Emily Dixon, formerly a teacher, has become marketing executive for the walking specialist.
The appointments bring the marketing team to two and the operations team to three members of staff. They follow the recent addition of sales director Richard Forde, who previously worked for Newmarket Holidays as head of trade sales and partnerships.
Managing director Steve West said: “As Richard strengthens our distribution channels, it’s essential that we align all aspects of the business.
“Hayley brings invaluable travel experience, having worked with First Choice and Thomas Cook, and will play a key role in expanding our product portfolio. Emily is already contributing fresh ideas to our marketing strategy, particularly as we broaden our offerings beyond traditional walking holidays to include ‘Holidays with Walks’ and specialised ‘Walking for Solo Travelers.’”
Forde said agent feedback to the operator, which hopes trade bookings will account for 10% of sales within a year, has been “overwhelmingly positive”.
He said: “Agents appreciate the unique concept of our holidays—where walking is part of the experience, but not the main focus—along with the extensive range of solo holidays we offer. Additionally, our ability to fly from 19 regional airports across the UK makes it easier for agents to approach local walking groups and offer tailored packages.”
The operator has already brought out new itineraries for 2026, including in Malta and Gozo. Further trips are set to launch in the coming weeks for National Walking Month in May, a campaign which promotes the benefits of walking.
The operator has more than 40 walking, birdwatching and rail holidays across the UK and Europe, with flights from 18 regional UK airports.