Downe Travel, Downpatrick: Northern Ireland’s Top Agency

The newly decorated premises feature desks strategically placed to maximise privacy during enquiries, while a four-metre lightbox has been installed in the window to entice shoppers with regularly updated offers.

The eight-strong team is always looking to further its industry knowledge, and consultants regularly take in-store training, attend supplier events and head off on a familiarisation trip at least once a year.

Going above and beyond is second nature for Downe Travel and should problems arise, clients can certainly expect agents to fight their corner. For example, the team had two girls travelling to Australia who missed their connection, so staff spent three hours on the phone to get them on the next flight free of charge.

It’s dedication like this that means customers stay loyal to Downe Travel, with one cruise client having now booked with them 66 times! Customer reviews on its Facebook page further demonstrate their satisfaction – with a 4.8 out of 5 average rating.

Downe Travel prides itself on supporting the local community and frequently engages with charities, gives talks at colleges and sponsors the local youth club.

The agency is especially passionate about raising awareness of autism and works closely with Belfast International airport to offer resources for clients with autistic children.

Savvy marketing on the agency’s Facebook page has generated some serious revenue too. The team played on the superstition of Friday 13th by posting a “not unlucky if you book a cruise” offer to its 8,900-strong database, which generated sales of £30,000.

It’s clear that Downe Travel is an integral part of the Downpatrick community and a business that is as popular as it is skilled in selling travel.