Protected Trust Services (PTS) has reported a “strong start” to 2025 with record-breaking sales figures and more to come with the pay-day weekend ahead.
Executive director Emma Collis said that the consortium has about 160 agents, who have experienced a “remarkable surge in bookings and revenue”.
Together, the PTS agents have made 2,967 bookings in January so far, generating revenue that has increased by 8.9% year-on-year – up by more than £1.8 million.
“While some agents initially reported a slower-than-expected start to the year, largely due to challenging weather conditions in early January, they have quickly rebounded,” she said.
“High street locations, in particular, faced unexpected setbacks in the worst affected locations, but these have been more than made up for in the later weeks of the month.
“Agents are now preparing for one of their busiest weekends yet, as the post-Christmas pay day period approaches.”
She said agents are seeing “high demand” for summer and late summer 2025 bookings.
“With attractive discounts offered by tour operators, destinations such as Turkey, Morocco, Portugal, Egypt and Spain are proving to be especially popular,” added Collis.
“In addition, cruising has seen a 6% increase in bookings compared to this time last year, with Norway emerging as a very popular choice, along with the Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises that continue to draw attention.”
More: Protected Trust Services opens office in Sunderland
PTS brings tech team inhouse and plans to invest ‘heavily’
Protected Trust Services targets 1,000 members in next five years
The increased sales also follow “significant enhancements” that PTS made to its software to help members focus more on selling than administrative tasks.
The consortium will launch a live pricing tool in the coming months, further automating workflows for its members, added Collis.
She said training remains a “top priority” with February’s face-to-face training days fully booked and a series of events being planned with supplier partners.
The group will also hold a conference in early 2026 which “promises to be even bigger and better than before”, said Collis.
Last year’s conference was held in Warwickshire.
She said PTS has also welcomed six new travel businesses since January 6, including experienced homeworkers, specialist sports operators and travel agents.
One business is Case Travel, co-founded by Ally Case and her daughter Danielle Case.
The homeworking business is based in Bournemouth and has taken on Sue Smith as travel experience coordinator to handle concierge services.
Collis concluded: “2025 has started with incredible momentum and we are thrilled.
“Our focus remains on enhancing the services we offer our members, ensuring we continue to provide value, innovation and support to make selling travel simple for all.
“We look forward to an exciting year ahead with our members as we all continue to grow and evolve.”
Pictured: Emma Collis with PTS chief executive Daniel Landen at last year’s conference.