More than 500 travel agencies and branches put themselves forward for consideration for TTG’s Top 50 Travel Agencies 2019 from which a shortlist of 100 finalists across 20 categories was selected.
The TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies list was revealed in a glittering ceremony in Birmingham on Thursday night after an extensive judging process, which saw agents rated by tour operators and other suppliers, and then assessed by travel trade journalists.
Downe Travel was named Top Agency in Northern Ireland from a shortlist of five.
TTG Group Editor Pippa Jacks said: “Now in its fourth year, our Top 50 Travel Agencies initiative has seen us tour the length and breadth of the UK and Ireland to uncover its most dedicated and innovative travel agency businesses.
“Our winners demonstrate that travel retailing in 2019 is a vibrant and successful business sector, and that experienced travel professionals continue to add value through their expertise and by delivering extraordinary service to their customers.”
“The team at Downe Travel impressed our judges with their drive to try new things, their impeccable customer service and their support for local charitable causes. Huge congratulations to Marie, Paul and the team for taking home this prestigious accolade.
Paul Gallagher Director said: “I am absolutely delighted to win the TTG Top 50 Travel Agency for Northern Ireland. To receive this prestigious accolade two years running is just amazing and I am delighted for the staff who are so passionate about their job and their hard work has certainly paid off.
“As a family run independent agency it it is just fantastic to see Downe Travel’s name up there competing on a national stage. We are very grateful to all our customers for their loyalty and support over the years. What a fantastic evening at the awards and our team already have the champagne chilling.”
The shortlisting stage was undertaken by a panel of 60 travel suppliers including airlines, tour operators and car hire providers, who rated hopeful agencies according to their business performance, customer service and expertise. To decide which shortlisted agencies made it into the Top 50 list, a TTG journalist visited or interviewed each shortlisted agency to carry out an assessment.
