The business will transfer to Hays Travel ownership on Wednesday 5 November following an announcement at its Leicester head office.
All jobs at Millington Travel’s 14 branches are safe, it has been confirmed. All branches will continue to trade as Millington Travel, which was established in 1972.
The news comes just days after it was announced Hays Travel had bought 15-branch Polka Dot Travel, another miniple. Polka Dot will also continue to trade under its own name from shops in the north west, Midlands and north Wales, with all staff remaining in their posts.
Nick Bland and Nigel Armitage brought their industry knowledge to Millington Travel when they bought the business in 2005 and have since developed the company into one trusted for its expertise in long-haul, cruise and tailor-made holidays.
Dame Irene Hays said: “I congratulate Nick and Nigel on their work to further establish Millington Travel as an exemplary business. With its reputation for family values, excellent service, and loyal customers, Millington Travel is a natural fit for us. We look forward to welcoming their talented people to our Hays Travel family.”
Armitage said: “Stepping away from a business we've poured our hearts into for nearly 20 years is emotional, but we’re confident this is the right move. Our incredible team has been the backbone of Millington Travel’s success, and we’re proud to see them transition into the capable hands of Hays Travel. We’re deeply grateful to our loyal customers and colleagues who’ve made this journey so rewarding.
Dame Irene added: “I wish Nigel and Nick every success with what comes next and give them my assurance that we will take great care of their brilliant people and business as we build on their legacy.”
Hays Travel has been on an acquisition spree, having acquired Cruise.co.uk parent Victoria Travel Group Limited in July, to spearhead its expansion into the online cruise selling market.
Spear Travels Group, Miles Morgan Travel and Travel House have also been added to the Hays Travel empire in recent years.
