How we do it?

First and foremost, we think that business should be fun and exciting, especially a business selling attractions, holidays and worldwide experiences.  However, to operate in a fun and exciting environment, a business needs to be successful and we judge success using the following criteria.

• Profitable– It sounds fairly basic that a business must make a profit and grow profitably.  However, the travel industry is littered with examples of companies where the ego’s of the company directors has come before profit.  “Turnover is vanity.  Profit is sanity” as the old saying goes.  Although a better quote comes from Warren Buffet who knows a thing or two about business.  “Rule number 1 – always make a profit.  Rule number 2 – never forget rule number 1”. 
   
• Sustainable– Are we operating in a market or a sector where price is or will inevitably become the lowest common denominator?  Do we convert online visitors at over 2%?  Can the model be easily copied?  These are just a few of many questions that need to be asked.  
   
• Organic – We don’t like debt so we like to grow using retained profits to fund growth.
   
• Ethical– We don’t gamble with customers’ money, we always pay suppliers on time and we don’t take risks that could impact our staff and their ability to pay their mortgage or provide for their families.  

Growth is important and we were honoured to be recognised by The 2006 Sunday Times Fasttrack 100 as the fastest growing travel company in the UK.  However, before we launch any new project, office or brand, we analyse whether the plans will fit with our criteria for success.