Travel agents and tour operators share their 2026 wish lists

From closer trade partnerships and business expansion to more regional flight capacity, a change in balance payment dates and more sustainable travel, the trade has a wide range of hopes for the year ahead.

In a snapshot poll by Travel Weekly ahead of the new year, travel agents and tour operators give their views on what they would like to see happen in 2026.

Helen Parry – Arundel Travel director

“I’d love to see tour operators push balance payment dates back a little, as online competition is only going to get tougher next year and this would really help travel agents support customers who are trying to spread their spending. On the flipside, I’d love to see the continued growth of long-haul and touring holidays, as couples and empty-nesters keep exploring the world and ticking destinations off their bucket lists.”

Nicki Tempest-Mitchell – Barrhead Travel managing director

“From a broad market perspective, we’d love to see continued growth in regional capacity from airlines and operators. From a business perspective, we’re hoping to continue our ambitious growth plans, including organic and retail growth. Our bespoke apprenticeship programmes will remain a focus to extend during 2026. However, we are always hopeful the government will review its apprenticeship funding framework as this would be a game-changer for future talent within the entire industry. Finally, we’re hoping to achieve a fourth consecutive record-breaking sales year."

Nicky Bird – Holiday Best head of trade sales

“Looking ahead to 2026, my wish list is simple but significant: a busy peaks period that sets a strong tone for the year ahead. I’m hoping to continue growing our trade partners, building deeper, more collaborative relationships across the industry. Plenty of fam trips throughout the year are also high on the list – nothing supports confident selling like first-hand experience. Above all, I’m wishing for sustained demand, positive momentum, and a year where agents and operators can thrive together through strong partnerships and shared success.”

Jennifer Lynch – ArrangeMY Escape general manager

“I am looking forward to growing our touring and cruise business in 2026. I have multiple events planned with more to pop in just in the first half of 2026. It’s going to be a busy year of personalised targeted events for us!”

Vim Vithaldas – The Travel Network Group chief commercial officer

“My hope for 2026 is that consumer confidence returns after a year in which many households have felt financially stretched and cautious about committing to travel. If confidence improves, we could see more bucket-list and long-haul bookings conversations taking place with customers. Also for 2026, I believe our members will extract significant benefits from the technology rolled out by The Travel Network Group. The rollout of Vision and our TTNG Digital Assistant will drive efficiencies and strengthen how our members serve customers, ultimately leading to more bookings.”