Regular staff members will receive a £100 bonus for each year of service, with many being given several thousand pounds. 

Personal travel consultants and Explorer franchisees will not be eligible for the cash reward but will receive a shopping voucher for every year they have been a member.

Hays Travel declined to give an exact figure to the payouts total, but confirmed the figure was in the “millions”.

The agency chain achieved the £3 billion milestone a month ahead of its financial year-end on 30 April. The increase in total transaction value follows the 2023/2024 figure of £2.55 billion, which saw group profits before tax hit £73.4 million and means this year’s profits could nudge £100 million.

Lenore Mason, general manager for recruitment and people services, who has clocked up 37 years with Hays Travel, said: “I feel so fortunate to work alongside brilliant people, for a company that values me and has continued to grow in the region where I grew up. 

“Although Hays Travel has seen many changes over the years it has always been totally committed to its values and people. Today’s news is exciting for everyone and just shows how much we are appreciated.”

In a video message to employees, Dame Irene Hays, owner and chair of Hays Travel, said: “Since Hays Travel began trading 45 years ago, we have always remained true to our vision and values, and our strategic priorities: our people, our customers, and the communities where we operate. 

“As I have said many times, our success is down to our people, which is why achieving this £3 billion milestone is an opportunity to demonstrate just how much their excellent work and unwavering loyalty are appreciated.”