Pole Travel, a family-run travel agency, marked its 40th anniversary with a celebration involving customers and staff. The agency’s legacy of dedicated service spans decades.
Founded by Jean Ivell in 1984, Pole Travel has become a cornerstone of its community, consistently offering personalised travel solutions. The celebration honoured lasting relationships and the agency’s impact.
A Family Legacy in the Travel Industry
Jean Ivell, the visionary founder of Pole Travel, established the agency in 1984. Situated in Failsworth, Greater Manchester, the agency continues to prosper on the same premises. Ivell’s determination to gain the necessary qualifications underscores her commitment to this entrepreneurial journey. The longevity of the agency highlights the enduring bond it shares with its community and customers.
Generational Transitions and Continuity
Jill Waite, Ivell’s daughter and the current owner, exemplifies the seamless transition of the agency across generations. What began as a temporary assistance role evolved into a 36-year career. This underscores the compelling allure of the travel industry. Waite’s leadership has been pivotal since her mother’s retirement in 2007.
The agency once operated a second branch in Openshaw, Manchester, acquired in 1996. However, it has since consolidated operations to focus on its original location, reinforcing its roots and community presence.
The Next Chapter with Jasmin Waite
Jasmin Waite, Jill’s daughter, represents the third generation involved in this familial enterprise. Initially intending to pursue higher education, Jasmin opted to support the agency during a colleague’s maternity leave. Her involvement today underscores a family passion for travel and service.
With four dedicated staff members, including Jill and Jasmin, Pole Travel embodies a close-knit team ethos. Their collective efforts continue to drive the agency’s success, reflecting a shared commitment to customer service excellence.
The agency’s customer-centric approach is a testament to the values instilled by each family member. This approach has cultivated long-lasting relationships with clients, some of whom have been patrons for decades.
Celebrating Four Decades of Service
To commemorate 40 successful years, Pole Travel hosted a celebratory event for loyal customers and business partners. The festivities included a bar set up within the branch, alongside a nostalgic display of travel brochures spanning four decades. Jill Waite reflects, “We wanted to mark the occasion by acknowledging those who have been with us from the start.”
The anniversary event was not only a celebration of the agency’s achievements but also a recognition of the mutual relationships fostered over the years. With drinks and cake, the atmosphere was both festive and reflective.
Engaging with the Community
Pole Travel’s impact extends beyond customers, involving collaborations with suppliers who attended the anniversary. Such interactions highlight the agency’s role within the broader travel industry. The event reinforced the agency’s dedication to fostering strong community and industry ties.
These partnerships have been instrumental in maintaining the agency’s competitive edge. Suppliers benefit from the agency’s steadfast reputation, while Pole Travel leverages these relationships to offer diverse travel options to its clients.
The agency’s sustained relevance in the travel sector is bolstered by these strategic collaborations, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.
Looking Forward
As they celebrate past successes, Pole Travel also eyes future opportunities. The family remains enthusiastic about evolving industry trends, seeing these as avenues for growth. Jill Waite remains optimistic, “Our history is just the beginning of our story; we’re excited about what lies ahead.”
Plans to embrace digital tools are underway, aiming to enhance customer engagement and expand service offerings online. This strategic direction will support the agency’s aim to attract new clients while retaining loyal ones.
Conclusion of Celebrations
The anniversary not only marks a significant milestone for Pole Travel but also affirms the family’s enduring passion for the industry. Their journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, sets a foundation for continued success.
Pole Travel’s 40th anniversary is a testament to its strong foundation and family-driven ethos. The agency looks forward to future opportunities and continuous service excellence.
With a focus on evolving in the dynamic travel industry, the third-generation family members are committed to upholding Pole Travel’s tradition of remarkable service.
