Polka Dot Travel today completed the sale of the business they established in 2013 to Hays Travel.

The business’s 15 branches – in the North West, Midlands and North Wales – will continue to trade as Polka Dot Travel and all of its employees’ jobs are safe.

Jane Schumm, Retail Director of Hays Travel, praised Helen Johnson, Philippa Wilcox and Mark Johnson on establishing and growing a business with a reputation for exceptional customer experience and the team for their knowledge and professionalism.

Jane said: “We are delighted to welcome Polka Dot Travel’s people to our Hays Travel group – their expertise, experience, and enthusiasm for travel are a significant factor in our decision to acquire the business from Helen, Philippa and Mark.

“We look forward to learning from the team in Polka Dot Travel’s 15 branches.

"We know the Polka Dot team will benefit from the huge choice of suppliers we represent across long-haul, short-haul, and cruise, and the opportunity to introduce our award-winning foreign exchange offer to their customers.”

Helen Johnson, who founded Polka Dot Travel with Philippa Wilcox, said: “The time is right for us to sell the business that Philippa and I established in 2013.

"Mark joined us in 2015 and was integral to our growth from that point. Together we have worked so hard to build our business and it’s reassuring to know that our brilliant people are now part of the Hays Travel family and that their jobs are safe.

“Thank you for being incredible, we know how much your customers love you and that you will fully embrace every opportunity that comes from being part of the UK’s largest independent travel agent!”

Paul Nunn, Chief Operating Officer of Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “It’s been a pleasure to support Polka Dot Travel since they opened their first branch door 12 years ago, and incredibly rewarding to be a part of their continued growth.

"Although we’re obviously sad to see Polka Dot Travel leave Advantage, we’re absolutely delighted for Philippa, Helen and Mark on the sale of a wonderful business.

"We thank them for the partnership we’ve shared and wish the remaining team at Polka Dot continued success.”

Jane Schumm added: “Congratulations Helen, Philippa and Mark on building an excellent business with an enviable reputation for customer care.

"Rest assured that we will take great care of your people, and we wish you every happiness and success with your future plans.”