The journey trade is mourning the passing of John Hays, the founder and managing director of Hays Journey, who died at present on the age of 71.
A press release from the corporate mentioned he died at work, doing “the job he beloved”.
John, who along with his spouse and co-owner Irene Hays purchased the Thomas Cook retail property a yr in the past, was at Sunderland head workplace of the corporate when he collapsed.
The couple constructed Hays Journey into the most important unbiased journey agent within the UK, offering jobs and careers for 1000’s of younger folks over 40 years.
All through the previous yr they did all the things doable energy to avoid wasting jobs and shield the journey trade for the influence of Covid-19.
A press release from the corporate mentioned: “He was held in immense respect by his workers, colleagues, household and associates and was recognised all through his life for his many achievements.
“He was equally pleased with his loyal workers who, underneath the course of the board and senior administration group, will be sure that the enterprise continues to serve the shoppers of the most important unbiased journey agent as he would have wished.”
Hays Journey took over elements of Thomas Prepare dinner final yr
Hays Journey specialises in offering good worth, high quality holidays alongside glorious customer support.
Commenting on the passing of John Hays, Andy Cohen, head of ATOL, mentioned: “I’ve had the pleasure of understanding John for over 30 years.
“He was a person of integrity and a really profitable businessman who beloved the journey trade.
“I spent many hours over time speaking sport, journey and plenty of different topics with John, who would usually supply me recommendation.
“He was all the time a pleasure to be round, and I do know he can be missed by many.”
Earlier than it took on lots of of Thomas Prepare dinner outlets final yr, Hays Journey had 190 outlets, 1,900 workers, and gross sales of £379 million, reporting income of £10 million.
Mark Tanzer, chief govt of journey commerce organisation ABTA, mentioned: “We had been shocked and saddened to listen to this afternoon’s information that John Hays has handed away.
“John was a significant determine within the journey trade over a few years, and created one of many trade’s most profitable corporations.”
