Polka Dot will continue to trade under its own name from shops in the north west, Midlands and north Wales, with all staff remaining in their posts.
Helen Johnson, who founded Polka Dot Travel with Philippa Wilcox, said: “The time is right for us to sell the business that Philippa and I established in 2013.”
The pair were joined by Mark Johnson in 2015, described as being “integral to our growth”.
Helen Johnson added: “Together we have worked so hard to build our business and it’s reassuring to know that our brilliant people are now part of the Hays Travel family and that their jobs are safe.”
In a message to staff, she said: “Thank you for being incredible, we know how much your customers love you and that you will fully embrace every opportunity that comes from being part of the UK’s largest independent travel agent.”
Hays Travel retail director Jane Schumm said Polka Dot had “a reputation for exceptional customer experience”.
“We are delighted to welcome Polka Dot Travel’s people to our Hays Travel group – their expertise, experience, and enthusiasm for travel are a significant factor in our decision to acquire the business from Helen, Philippa and Mark,” she said.
“We look forward to learning from the team in Polka Dot Travel’s 15 branches. We know the Polka Dot team will benefit from the huge choice of suppliers we represent across long-haul, short-haul and cruise, and the opportunity to introduce our award-winning foreign exchange offer to their customers.”
Polka Dot is an Advantage Travel Partnership member but will be leaving the consortium.
Advantage chief operating officer Paul Nunn added: “It’s been a pleasure to support Polka Dot Travel since they opened their first branch door 12 years ago, and incredibly rewarding to be a part of their continued growth.
“Although we’re obviously sad to see Polka Dot Travel leave Advantage, we’re absolutely delighted for Philippa, Helen and Mark on the sale of a wonderful business. We thank them for the partnership we’ve shared and wish the remaining team at Polka Dot continued success.”
