Hays Travel has made a significant move by opening a new branch in Sutton, eyeing opportunities for growth and community engagement.
Led by Michael Fox, a former chef turned travel expert, the branch celebrated its official launch, marking a new chapter for Hays Travel in the region.
Grand Opening Celebrations
The newly established Hays Travel branch in Sutton marked its inauguration with a ceremonious opening, graced by the presence of the Mayor of the London Borough of Sutton, Colin Stears. The store’s opening event was not only a moment of celebration but also a testament to the strategic expansion efforts by Hays Travel in the region.
The event featured a delightful atmosphere, where cake was shared among attendees, and a prize draw was conducted. Enthusiasts could win a £200 Hays Travel voucher or a Royal Caribbean goodie bag, adding excitement to the occasion. The event was successful in drawing a diverse group of participants, ranging from local residents to invited guests.
A Community Engagement Perspective
During the official opening, the attention also turned to the creative prowess of local children from Barrow Hedges Primary School. They were invited to showcase their artistic talents by designing their vision of an MSC cruise ship. The responsibility of selecting the best artwork was handed over to the Mayor, who faced the challenging task of choosing a winner from the outstanding submissions.
The winning design earned the young artist a Lego model of a ship, delighting both the participant and the audience. The initiative not only fostered community involvement but also highlighted Hays Travel’s commitment to engaging with local communities through creative and educational projects.
The Strategic Location of Sutton
The selection of Sutton for the new branch was a decision driven by opportunity and location insights.
Jane Schumm, Hays Travel’s retail director, expressed her satisfaction with the store’s early performance, stating that the choice of location was immediate when it became available. The branch, described as ‘gorgeous,’ is staffed by a team with extensive travel knowledge and experience, including Michael Fox and his colleagues, some of whom migrated from the former Thomas Cook establishment in the same town.
The store aims to capitalise on the vibrant local market and provide unparalleled travel services to the residents of Sutton.
From Cuisine to Travel – Michael Fox’s Journey
Michael Fox’s transition from a renowned chef to a travel industry expert is a unique narrative of career transformation. His culinary journey took him to prestigious hotels and expansive chalets in Austria before he delved into the travel sector in the early 2000s.
Initially joining the industry as a holiday representative with Tui, Fox’s career evolved as he acquired in-depth knowledge of key destinations like the Maldives, Mexico, and Switzerland during his tenure with Kuoni.
His experiences across 13 countries have enriched his understanding of the travel landscape. Fox’s leadership at the Hays Travel Sutton branch is a continuation of his remarkable career journey, characterised by adaptability and diverse expertise.
Anticipation for the Hays Travel Advert
The Sutton branch is gearing up to make its television debut in an upcoming advertisement. Michael Fox shared his excitement about the filming process, noting that a full crew and cast of 25 visited the branch in April. The branch’s forthcoming appearance on TV is eagerly anticipated by the Sutton community.
The involvement in the advertisement is seen as a significant opportunity for the branch to gain visibility and attract new customers. This marketing effort underscores Hays Travel’s commitment to innovative promotional strategies aimed at expanding its brand reach.
A Legacy of Knowledge and Experience
Michael Fox exemplifies a blend of culinary and travel expertise, contributing to the branch’s potential for success. His extensive background in diverse sectors is an asset that enhances the team’s ability to deliver exceptional service.
The branch benefits from the combined experience of its staff, many of whom have longstanding ties to the travel industry. This depth of knowledge positions the Sutton branch as a key player in the local travel market, poised to offer both unique insights and comprehensive travel solutions.
As the Sutton branch embarks on its journey, it stands poised to leverage the rich experiences of its team under Fox’s leadership.
The Sutton branch of Hays Travel is set to become a central hub for travel enthusiasts in the area, thanks to its knowledgeable team.
As it gains prominence, the branch’s community initiatives and strategic marketing will play a crucial role in its success.
