B2B bedbank Youtravel.com is to expand it long-haul offering as it marks its tenth anniversary in 2016.
A series of promotions and events for agents are planned during the year following a claimed “record performance” in the January peak selling period.
Sri Lanka, Seychelles and Mauritius have been added as part of the long haul expansion plans with hotels in the Maldives, South Africa, India, Kenya and South America to be introduced over the next 12 months.
Chief sales officer, Paul Riches, said: “After a very tough November and December, we have seen excellent trading in January, with incredible growth verses the same period last year.
“We have had some record trading days last month and long may it continue.”
He added: “The winter lates market has been tough for everyone, due to the Egypt situation and the lack of availability in the Canaries.”
However, the Dubai-based company had a “distinct advantage” due to 34 group-owned Labranda hotels, many of which are in the Canary Islands.
The company has increased its range of exclusive hotels in Greece, Spain, Balearics and Portugal for summer 2016.
Riches added: “Youtravel.com has traditionally been seen as a ‘short haul beach’ hotel provider.
“Whilst we will continue to develop and grow in our traditional markets, we see massive potential in developing our long haul products, in order to service our existing UK and rapidly growing number of global trade partners.”