Independent travel agency Blue Bay Travel has reported a record-breaking January with revenues up 30% on the same month last year.
The travel agency, which enjoyed turnover in excess of £40 million for 2018, operates under three sub-brands, Caribbean Warehouse, Tropical Warehouse and Xclusivity.
It said its close relationship with resort operator Sandals had contributed to its success. Conversion rates for Sandals bookings by Blue Bay Travel have increased from 46% to 62%, with the number of quotes for Sandals holidays up by 449% this January compared to January last year. Average booking values for Sandals’ bookings are £5,743.
The company said its average booking values for all bookings in January have jumped from £4,072 to £4,441, while the number of bookings taken for the month versus the same period last year are up 20%.
Blue Bay also highlighted growth in holidays booked with business class flights, with the number of clients upgrading their flights up by 108% compared with January 2018.
Managing director Maxine Rowland said: “We are extremely happy with the progression during these peak periods. We are now aiming to maintain this performance throughout the rest of the year.”
The agency witnessed similar record-breaking sales figures for Blue Monday, with commission up by 102% on the day, revenue up 92% and booking conversions up by 46%, above the month’s average.
For 2019 the company is focused on boosting sales in Eastern destinations and building on successes in Jamaica and Tobago. Key Eastern destinations such as Egypt and the Maldives have enjoyed increases of 38% and 56% respectively in bookings year on year so far this year.
More: Blue Bay Travel promotes Maxine Rowland to managing director
Blue Bay Travel reports record start to year [April 18]