USAirtours has outlined ambitious growth plans for the next two years thanks to more-efficient post‑Covid processes and working from home.
The trade-only operator is also planning a series of themed incentives for travel agents to mark its 40th anniversary.
Founder and chief executive Guy Novik said: “Working from home means we are no longer restricted by the number of desks if we want to expand. We will be looking to significantly grow the business and expect to be two-and-a-half times the size by the end of September 2025.”
More: Special Report: USAirtours eyes growth as it celebrates its 40th anniversary
Sales for 2023 are expected to reach pre-Covid levels with turnover of £35 million, with about 15,000 passengers – although the number of customers is 25% down on 2019.
Novik said the prices of holidays are about 23% higher than in 2019, adding: “We are targeting 50,000 passengers by 2025.”
The workforce is expected to grow by half, from 60 to 90, but not as fast as passenger numbers thanks to in-house technology investments.
“Covid gave us a chance to take a fresh look at our processes and become more efficient,” Novik said. “Staff can turn quotes around in a third of the time.”
He said USAirtours will celebrate its 40th anniversary with agents via ‘40-themed’ promotions such as £40 booking incentives, draws with 40 prizes and fam trips with 40 places.
“We have been supported by a loyal group of agents over the years,” he added.
As well as US holidays, the company sells Canada, the Caribbean and fly-cruises to North America.
Despite the rising cost of holidays since 2019, Novik pointed out that holidays to the US are about the same price now as they were in 2000.
“Long-haul fares haven’t changed, so more people can afford them,” he said. “There is demand for more specialist touring and activity holidays – that’s an area we are focused on.
“Customers are more discerning and will book premium economy or business-class flights and they want to stay in decent hotels. Their expectations have increased.”
More: Special Report: USAirtours eyes growth as it celebrates its 40th anniversary