Some 3,000 Hays retail staff are working from home on cancellations, refunds and rebookings; but Hays is now gradually reopening branches across the UK where safe to do so.

It is now seeking additional staff to assist owing to the many changes in people’s circumstances during the coronavirus lockdown.

“During the months of lockdown, many things have changed,” said Irene Hays, chair and joint owner of Hays Travel. “We have some colleagues who were due to leave anyway, some who have decided on a change of lifestyle, and some who will be taking maternity leave soon.

“There will be people in the travel industry who are looking at their options just now and we want to let them know we are recruiting.

"We will welcome people with the right skills and experience who can do their bit to help our industry recover, and help more people get a holiday to look forward to.” 

Hays has also relaunched its annual drive to recruit an apprentice in every one of its stores, now numbering more than 700 after Hays acquired Thomas Cook’s retail estate last September.

“By September, there will be lots of school leavers who might be interested in a career in travel," said Hays. "Our paid apprenticeships, with a job at the end of them, are a fantastic opportunity."

As the UK emerges from the coronavirus crisis, Hays has seen an uptick in bookings for later in the year and 2021; popular destinations include Greece, the Balearics and the Canaries.

Certain new bookings will qualify for Hays’ Peace of Mind Guarantee, which allows clients to cancel or change their booking, for any reason, for free within six weeks of departure and claim a full refund.

Screens have been installed at Hays branches that have reopened, and teams will be working within strict new social distancing and hygiene regimes. It is taking bookings online, over the phone, by email and by video conference. Clients seeking a face-to-face consultation are advised to book.