Hays Travel has completed its fourth acquisition of the year, purchasing Midlands-based Millington Travel for an undisclosed sum.
The 14-branch miniple will transfer to the ownership of the Sunderland-based agency – which last week announced the acquisition of Polka Dot Travel – from today.
Millington’s 77 employees will be retained by Hays Travel and all branches will continue to trade as Millington Travel.
Nick Bland and Nigel Armitage bought Millington Travel in 2005 and developed it into an agency known for its long-haul, cruise and tailor-made offerings.
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.”
Bland said the pair have “great respect” for Dame Irene Hays, chief operating officer Jonathon Woodall-Johnston and the rest of the Hays team, adding: “We know that our people are in good hands.”
Hays wished Armitage and Bland “every success” with their next move as she assured them that the agency will “take great care of their brilliant people and business as we build on their legacy”.
She added: “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.”
Earlier this year, Hays Travel bought Cruise.co.uk parent Victoria Travel Group and Spear Travels Group, following acquisitions of Just Go Travel, Travel House and Miles Morgan Travel.
The agency’s retail portfolio now stands at about 530 branches.
