A Suffolk travel agency has been named as the UK and Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency for 2020.
Deben Travel in Woodbridge was selected for this prestigious title as part of TTG’s Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative, a power-list of the nation’s best agents by industry bible, Travel Trade Gazette.
Deben Travel was named Top Agency in the East of England region in early June for the third year running and was then considered alongside the champions in 19 other regional and nationwide categories for the ultimate accolade – the UK & Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency 2020.
TTG group editor Pippa Jacks said:
“Now in its fifth year, our TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative sees us scour the UK and Ireland to find the hardest-working, most committed and most successful travel agency businesses in the land.
“The travel industry is currently facing a monumental challenge, but the coronavirus crisis has created an opportunity for the nation’s best travel agencies – those that offer their customers extraordinary service and expertise and do most to support their local communities – to shine.
“Lee Hunt and his team at Deben Travel have consistently impressed judges over the last three years with their expertise, their laser-focus on customer service, and their commitment to doing the right thing not only by their clients and their team, but also the environment – with a recent initiative seeing the team plant more than 700 trees in partnership with a local school. Huge congratulations to Lee and his team for this fantastic achievement.”
Director of Deben Travel Lee Hunt commented:
“To win the top agency in the East of England for three consecutive years was incredible but to then scoop the overall UK award is such a huge achievement for the team, I am extremely proud.”
Find more about TTG’s Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative at: www.ttgtop50.com
In Touch spoke to Lee about the challenges faced by the travel industry since lockdown began.
“All our staff worked from home initially, answering calls and emails, amending cancelled holidays and providing advice. The store re-opened on 15th June with just two team members to meet distancing rules.”
Unlike many online travel companies, Lee and his staff are always available, whether in store or working from home.
“We will answer your calls and reply to emails. You can book an appointment to come in to Deben Travel or Cruise Ready, or email us your holiday requirements and we can research the options and reply to you. We also have a range of luxury UK breaks to offer for those looking for a staycation.”
Lee expects demand to be high as customers tell him they very much need a holiday. When the government advice against overseas travel is lifted he’s confident many will be booking trips.
“We expect to be busy because now more than ever people appreciate the value of our knowledge and expertise and the extra care we take to find the perfect holiday for them.
“Being totally independent is extremely important to us and we work with numerous tour operators and airlines to ensure we find the perfect holiday tailored to suit your requirements at the very best price.
“Our friendly and knowledgeable team of travel consultants have over 100 years of Travel Industry experience to share which means you get the best advice along with our outstanding customer service every time you book with us.”
Following many years working within the travel industry, Lee opened Deben Travel in 2012. To be named the UK and Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency for 2020 is an incredible achievement in such a relatively short time. Lee is particularly proud that TTG group editor Pippa Jacks acknowledged Deben Travel’s involvement in and support for the local community.
“We have supported several local and environmental initiatives over the years and will continue to do so. We may work in the travel industry, but we’re equally passionate about our local community, which we can be especially proud of right now, and the local economy, aspects of which have taken a hit in recent months but will rise again with all our support.”
Lee has just relaunched the Deben Travel and Cruise Ready websites so do visit to find out more about this award-winning local company.