Homeworking group Travel Counsellors says it has welcomed a new business owner every working day throughout August.
The company reported that the number of new franchisees joining the company returned to pre-Covid levels last month, with a “notable increase” in enquiries and new joiners with corporate travel experience.
More than half of new enquiries are in talks to launch a corporate travel business before the end of the year, Travel Counsellors said, noting that one of the main reasons for corporate travel professionals seeking a new start was redundancy packages.
Travel Counsellors said it has also seen an “ongoing uplift” in interest from independent travel agencies with ‘bricks and mortar’ stores, and travel management companies with teams of less than 10.
Travel Counsellors corporate managing director Kieran Hartwell said: “We know it’s a very difficult time for many people in the industry, and the situation is fuelling a growing trend towards independent consultants and micro TMCs being formed from teams of people who are facing an uncertain future.
“These experienced travel professionals are taking a long-term view, taking this time as an opportunity to launch a new venture and lay the foundations for a successful business as travellers seek safe ways to get moving again.
“With many people much more accustomed to working remotely over recent months the opportunity is both desirable and familiar, but they’re also discovering that they can work remotely in duos, trios and teams, employ assistants or migrate their high street store to a flexible working model whilst sharing our commitment to care, and looking after a loyal leisure and corporate customer base nurtured over many years.”
A recent survey of nearly 500 people in the company’s recruitment audiences found that 70% of travel professionals were concerned about their future career in travel – a 5% increase on a previous survey issued in June.
Despite concerns, 75% said they remain confident about running a travel business from home in the future, with 60% saying they are still planning to launch a new business this year.
One of the main concerns potential new business owners have is ensuring complete financial protection for their customers, the survey found.
More than 40% of August joiners, and those scheduled to launch their businesses in September and October, have been referred by fellow Travel Counsellors.
Hartwell added: “It’s key that the industry now pulls together to support each other wherever and whenever we can, which includes recommending the opportunities available for fellow travel professionals.
“With ever-changing travel advice this is the time for experienced travel professionals to shine, demonstrate their value and show care for their customers and clients like no one else can. The time for trusted travel advisers and travel managers to demonstrate the essential part they play in creating seamless, stress-free travel experiences, where every last detail is taken care of, is now.”
The company has adapted its induction training for new Travel Counsellors to deliver interactive sessions via webcam, enabling new business owners to virtually ‘meet’ with fellow franchisees and members of the company’s support team.