State of the homeworking market: the leaders' view
Four homeworking business bosses reveal their views about a sector that’s more competitive than ever before. Juliet Dennis reports
Competition has further intensified between travel homeworking companies in the past year. This has reduced barriers to entry for would-be homeworkers looking to join the sector but ramped up pressure on companies aiming to grow their business in the current market.
Companies cite the increased importance of training, support and communication in order to attract more recruits as homeworkers face demand from customers for more personal service and expert advice.
We speak to the leaders of four homeworking companies of different sizes, who assess the state of the market and the outlook for the next 12 months.
Karen Pocock
Managing director, Designer Travel
How is business going for you?
We had the most amazing start to 2026, then the Middle East conflict dampened the long-haul market. For a few months our growth was in single, rather than double, digits. However, the change in the Foreign Office advice has made a big difference. Our focus on lates has produced some amazing results since Easter. Our turnover exceeds £80 million. We have more than 190 professional travel experts, with an attrition run rate of about 4%.
What do you think are the key factors shaping growth in the sector?
The market for homeworking agents is saturated, with so many companies thinking it’s an easy ‘get rich quick’ opportunity. The truth is far more complicated and the amount of resources you need to support a team of homeworkers is larger than most anticipate. We perform well because we have a structure supporting those who need and want help. Customers are looking for an individual who goes the extra mile without thinking and has the product knowledge to understand their requirements.
How do you see the homeworking landscape changing over the next 12 months?
Suppliers are becoming increasingly aware of the need to work with companies that produce results, invest in team training and recruit the right people who treat their jobs as a vocation. Doing homeworking ‘right’ isn’t as easy as it looks.
Tricia Handley-Hughes
UK & Ireland managing director, InteleTravel
How is business going for you?
Our bookings are up 41% year on year and revenue is up 20%. Our average booking values are £1,500. We have more than 40,000 advisors in the UK at different stages with their businesses. Our sales increase versus 2025 is testament to the desire to change work routines. InteleTravel is reaping rewards from the trend by ‘normalising’ working from home.
What do you think are the key factors shaping growth in the sector?
As customer habits change with the use of technology and search engines, looking for a holiday has never been easier. However, the volume [of holidays] on offer makes decision-making harder. Technology is an enabler, not a replacement for travel advisors. Smart travel advisors will embrace the opportunity to enhance their business. AI tools are an aid to productivity, with the caveat being that the end result still requires checking by agents.
How do you see the homeworking landscape changing over the next 12 months?
The number of homeworkers will continue to rise; the costs of office floor space and associated rental charges are creating more demand for alternatives. The rising cost of living and need for supplementary income, and online behaviours replacing traditional purchasing methods, are making homeworking a natural choice and a way to minimise expenditure. Homeworking is thriving as the mindset changes.
Sean Fletcher
Founder and director, Travel Four Seasons
How is business going for you?
Business is buoyant. There have been a few headwinds with the Middle East issues and media coverage, but our team are well placed to look after clients. Since Covid-19, clients have chosen travel professionals who support them down to the finer details. Value is important to them, but being a stable presence keeps clients loyal and helps our partners grow their businesses, which has helped to keep us on a growth trajectory in 2026. We have 15 homeworkers, up four on last year. Our total homeworking turnover is £2.8 million.
What do you think are the key factors shaping growth in the sector?
The growth is driven by two clear shifts: experienced travel professionals wanting greater flexibility and ownership of their careers, and customers placing more value on personal service and expert advice. They’re less concerned with whether that advisor sits in a shop or works remotely. We’re seeing growing demand for insider knowledge, luxury partnerships and bespoke planning.
How do you see the homeworking landscape changing over the next 12 months?
It will continue to grow. We’re working towards continued growth, with successful businesses focused on expertise, niche positioning and long-term client relationships. Our goal is 30 partner homeworkers, focusing on quality and diversity over quantity.
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