Founders of iSki agency branch out with holidays brand

The co-founders of specialist agency iSki have diversified with the introduction of new brand iHolidays.

Adrian Russell and Nick Heriot-Hill, who set up iSki in December 2014, have launched a website covering the summer market in addition to winter destinations.

Russell said: “The plan has always been to branch out to wider travel because we’re very aware we’re in a niche market.”

The decision was also made in recognition of the changing ski sector, he added.

“I think the ski industry is going to be very different in 50 years. Everyone realises we have to adapt to change with the times,” he said.

“There’s going to be more pressure on the extremely high resorts in Europe, so people are going to start skiing in other destinations, including Scandinavia, North America and Japan.”

Through the new website, the Protected Trust Services member will eventually sell “worldwide destinations” but will initially focus on selected areas.

“Our focus is probably going to be more on European and Caribbean destinations in the short-term, as well as luxury destinations including the Seychelles, Mauritius and the Maldives,” Russell said.

The business currently has a staff of 10 serving winter destinations, but Russell said it will likely grow to have a similar number specialising in summer bookings.

The website has an online booking function, though some customers prefer calling. Russell himself continues answering the phone to customers.

“It’s not often you can call up a managing director and get advice directly, but I’m very hands-on,” he said.