The Travel Franchise

When Stuart and his wife Karen joined The Travel Franchise in July 2021, they were looking for more than an additional income – they were creating the foundations for a dream retirement.

The couple had successfully run a refrigerated transport company for over 15 years, but wanted a long-term plan that combined flexibility with something they were passionate about. The idea was to build a business alongside their existing one, gradually developing it into a reliable income for the future.

Four years later, that plan has exceeded all expectations. Their travel business is now thriving – and even outperforming the company they have relied on for over a decade.

“The plan was for it to be a sideline, but after two years it became clear it could be our main source of income,” Stuart explains. “It’s now overtaken our transport business, and the goal is to go full time in travel next year.”

The turning point: Specialising in cruises

Much of their growth has come from embracing the cruise sector – a niche with one of the highest earning potentials in travel. The Travel Franchise has a dedicated Cruise Division and an experienced team of specialists who provide training and ongoing support to every new consultant.

“It’s reassuring to have access to experts with years of experience,” says Stuart. “It means offering the right products and handling bookings correctly.”

This focus recently led to a £20,000 booking. A couple approached them for a special occasion trip, frustrated with a previous experience at a high street travel agency. Thanks to recent training onboard Celebrity Cruises’ Apex, Stuart and Karen could describe the ship in detail, building trust and excitement. The clients booked immediately – and even added a second suite for family members.

That single conversation brought in a five-figure sale, excellent commission, and loyal customers likely to book again.

Training that builds confidence

Since joining The Travel Franchise, Stuart and Karen have completed more than a dozen ship visits.

“A ship visit when it’s in port – whether Southampton, Tilbury, or Liverpool – offers a guided tour and often a great lunch,” says Stuart. “The confidence gained from seeing the ships firsthand is invaluable.”

Cruises now account for around 40% of their business – a leap they attribute to both these visits and immersive training such as the Virgin Voyages Seminar at Sea. This week-long event combines practical learning, networking, and content creation while experiencing a cruise from a guest’s perspective.

Daily online training is also available from top travel suppliers, allowing consultants to refresh knowledge whenever needed. “There isn’t a day without some kind of training – but it’s always optional,” Stuart adds.

Finding customers… and friends

One notable booking came from a group of influencers reserving eight cabins. Their online holiday content showcased Stuart and Karen’s business to thousands of viewers, attracting clients from across the UK – far beyond their Norfolk base.

Some influencers have since joined as Partners in Travel, earning commission while recommending their services to followers, creating a steady flow of new business.

Alongside commercial success, the couple value the strong consultant community. They have formed lasting friendships with clients and fellow business owners, attending overseas mentorship retreats and even a charity trek to Peru.

Income now regularly exceeds that of their transport company, with repeat bookings, higher-value trips, and strong commissions becoming the norm. Stuart emphasises that success comes from dedication, building relationships, and delivering excellent service.

Even when travel disruptions occur, they see challenges as opportunities. “Flights get cancelled, things go wrong – but those moments often lead to our best reviews, because we’re there to help,” says Stuart.

So are the couple glad they chose The Travel Franchise?

“I have no regrets,” Stuart says. “It’s been the right move for us in every way.”