Top 50 2025 - Northern Ireland – Downe Travel, Downpatrick

Since devastating flooding swept through Downpatrick in late 2023, many in the town’s business community have struggled to get back on their feet. It is testament then, to the tenacity and spirit of the team at Downe Travel to have bounced back so strongly. Although the agency was unscathed by the flood waters, the Downe Travel team have had to contend with the town’s recovery and subdued footfall. With such challenges, looking after staff is paramount, with new private medical cover and mental health support introduced in the last year, while the team also enjoyed a Yoga Nidra session together at the end of the peak booking season to de-stress. 

Spirits are lifted as soon as you enter the bright, modern store on Downpatrick’s Market Street with a wall-to-wall lightbox at the back of the agency, showing an enticing tropical beach scene. Although there is also fun to be had off the shopfloor as on quieter days, the staff kitchen transforms into “Paul’s Pub” complete with dart board and miniature pool table for some friendly competition amongst colleagues. The same light-hearted approach is extended to Downe Travel customers, who are regularly invited in for in-store promotions all creating a buzz around the agency. A firm favourite amongst the team – and locals – are Downe’s ‘Disney Days’, where you could find a host of familiar characters roaming the streets of Downpatrick bringing smiles.

Striving to keep engagement with their customers personal, the team’s refreshed approach to social media sees them more likely to have fun on camera rather than simply feeding customers deal after deal. Boss Paul’s keepie-uppie challenge is a firm favourite among followers. That personal approach is felt in the support for the local community, with various sponsorships of local football and cricket teams, and generous donations of vouchers for local schools and charities on an ongoing basis. The team proudly came together to raise more than £1,500 for NI Hospice in a ‘steps’ challenge, with staff taking part on their days off and even on holiday, whether in Boston or Bruges to make sure they achieved a collective target of 315,000 steps over six weeks.

downetravel.co.uk