January sales are up 82% on the same period last year, despite an “anticipated decline” in European travel.
The last week in January (January 24-31) proved particularly successful, setting a new seven-day sales record.
“With the uncertainty of Brexit looming over us, it’s fair to say many of us weren’t sure what to expect from peaks this year,” said Not Just Travel co-founder Steve Witt.
“Having been to a number of conferences and trade events recently, there’s definitely been one word on everyone’s lips, and that’s Brexit. We had anticipated a possible decline in European travel but were estimated to remain on track to exceed last year’s figures.”
“In fact, the business has seen a huge surge in holiday sales over the month of January, blowing any concerns completely out of the water.”
Three key performers for Not Just Travel have been Turkey (up 148% year-on-year), Sri Lanka (up 150%) and South America (up 126%).
Witt though said he was particularly pleased with with the 80% increase in bookings for Spain, “beating all expectations”.
Supplier links have also proved fruitful, with Tui bookings up 236% year-on-year during January, Beachcomber 150% and JTA Travel 128%.
Elsewhere across the business, Not Just Travel has seen “strong and steady” year-on-year growth of its teams of home-based travel consultants, with franchise recruitment “also on the up”.
Fellow co-founder Paul Harrison said the company’s ongoing success was down to the “entrepreneurial spirit” of its franchisees, as well as the support provided by the group such as its turn-of-year training sessions.
“I’ve seen their skills, knowledge and confidence grow massively over the last few months, and that’s why we’re seeing such fantastic figures,” said Harrison.
Not Just Travel is also preparing to launch its new website, welcome two groups of new franchisees for training, and add to its marketing and operations teams.
