The Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) has recognised the outstanding contributions of frontline agents in Scotland at the 2024 Sparkle Awards.
During a ceremony at The Caledonian in Edinburgh on September 6, Barrhead Travel’s Fraser Hopkins was named Leisure Travel Manager of the Year, John Stewart Travel’s Elise Sanderson was unveiled as Leisure Consultant of the Year and Hays Travel Personal Travel Consultants’ Donna Payne was recognised as Cruise Consultant of the Year.
SPAA president Jacqueline Dobson (pictured) congratulated all 12 winners on their “remarkable achievements”.
She added: “This year’s winners have truly set the benchmark for excellence in the travel industry. Their commitment to providing exceptional service and their ability to navigate the challenges of the industry with grace and professionalism are truly commendable.”
The judges evaluated anonymous submissions highlighting how entrants excelled in their customer roles, with the panel representing award sponsors Royal Caribbean, Edinburgh airport, Delta Airlines, Stuba, Travelsphere, Travel Matters and Gold Medal.
Dobson said the SPAA was “incredibly proud” to recognise agents’ efforts, adding: “The SPAA’s Sparkle Awards continue to highlight the dedication and expertise that these professionals bring to the travel industry, fostering a spirit of excellence and customer service that is second to none.”
The full list of winners:
- Corporate Travel Manager of the Year: Jennifer Doak, Clyde Travel Management
- Agency Support Award: Leanne Weir, Barrhead Travel
- Touring and Adventure Consultant of the Year: Audrey Quinn, Thorne Travel
- Newcomer of the Year: Kacie Dick, Murray Travel
- Leisure Travel Manager of the Year: Fraser Hopkins, Barrhead Travel
- Luxury Consultant of the Year: Heather Currie, Hays Travel PTC
- Business Travel Consultant of the Year: Charlie Downer, ATPI
- Corporate Account Manager of the Year: Amy Anderson, Clyde Travel Management
- Cruise Consultant of the Year: Donna Payne, Hays Travel PTC
- Leisure Consultant of the Year: Elise Sanderson, John Stewart Travel
- Team Player of the Year: Laura Main, Greig Avinou Travel
- Rising Star of the Year: Stuart Clark, ATPI