The company introduced travel agents to its membership last October and is already planning to host an event for members next year.

However, it stipulates agents joining must be experienced, adding its service is not appropriate for start-ups.

Co-director and head of communications Jacqui Cleaver told TTG that such was the demand from agents to join, she expected the proportion of agents versus operators to grow to 40% of a membership of 250 by the end of the year.

PTS sees itself as a “disruptor” to the traditional consortium model, designed for established firms and individuals that “want to be left alone to run their business”.

“Our growth since rolling out to agents has been remarkable,” said Cleaver.

PTS charges a £1,200 joining fee with a monthly payment of £99 for the trust account and technology thereafter.

It does not take a cut of agents’ commission, instead charging “small transaction fees” per booking. There is also a £200 annual membership fee.