Agent starts business and joins Hays Travel Independence Group

A travel agent who was made redundant just before Christmas has realised her dream of running her own business.

After receiving the tough news, Victoria Kennan got the ball rolling on her very own venture and reached out to the Hays Travel Independence Group team.

Last Saturday, her plans came to fruition when Victoria’s Travel opened its first branch in the aptly named Victoria Square, in Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire.

Victoria said: “It is just amazing that I now have my own branch. It was daunting to make the move, but it has been really good so far.

“I worked for a Hays Travel Independence Group member for 14 years, so it is helpful that I already know people in the support team and all the systems.

“People have been very kind, and it was lovely to see so many at the opening.”

Victoria says she has also received support from local town councillors.

Among them is the Mayor of Droitwich Spa, Cllr Sue Brazier, who cut the ribbon during the branch’s opening ceremony.

Victoria added: “It has been wonderful to welcome old and new customers.

“It is a gorgeous space and I love having people in the branch for a coffee and a chat.

"I want to be here for everyone in our community and cater to everybody’s requirements.

“Being a travel agent is all about having that face-to-face interaction with people.

“It is just me working in the business, so it has been very busy. I also hope to have a website up and running soon, which will include a booking tool for Jet2holidays and easyJet holidays.

“There is a lot of positivity in our town at the moment – from comedy festivals to food markets – and my aim is to build a successful business at the heart of it.”

Victoria has been supported by the Hays Travel Independence Group team and was visited recently by Business Development Manager Helen Williamson, who toured the newly decorated branch.

Harriet Thompson, Head of the Hays Travel Independence Group, said: “All of our team is absolutely delighted Victoria has joined our consortium.

“Her new branch is fantastic and right at the centre of the community in Droitwich. I wish Victoria every success in her exciting new journey as an entrepreneur.”