Ashdown Travel acquires Hertfordshire agency Ultimate Destinations

Ashdown Travel has acquired Hertfordshire agency Ultimate Destinations for an undisclosed sum, taking the business to five branches.

The company said it sees this acquisition in Chorleywood as a platform for “further innovation and growth”, as it is now seeking a sixth branch.

The seven-strong Ultimate Destinations team will remain in place and are “enthusiastic” about the transition, said Tricia Lester, Ashdown Travel head of retail.

She said the new branch’s location is “particularly significant” as it opens up new opportunities within an affluent part of Greater London, allowing the growing agency to further expand its reach and strengthen relationships with new and existing clients.

“The synergy between our client bases is a perfect fit, and we are incredibly excited to welcome such a knowledgeable and passionate team into the Ashdown family,” said Lester.

A member of Advantage Travel Partnership, Ashdown Travel’s fourth high street shop opened in Knutsford, Cheshire, in January, and it also has two shops in Kent and one in Surrey.

As part of the integration, Ultimate Destinations’ consultant Andy Carr has been appointed as branch manager, “recognising his leadership and expertise”.

His colleagues are Chantelle Rosario, Debbie Parker and Leonor Correia. There are two homeworkers – Corin Germany and Bob Mortimore – who will now continue to be homeworkers under Ashdown Travel.

Alan Haynes, owner of Ultimate Destinations, will continue to support the business during the transition and beyond, working one day a week to ensure continuity for clients. He founded the business in 1994.

The Chorleywood branch has been renamed, and will be refurbished, bringing it in line with Ashdown Travel’s other four locations.

Lester added: “This is an exciting step forward, and we remain focused on expanding thoughtfully while maintaining the personal, expert service our clients and trade partners expect.”