Business

Travel firm opens new premises in former bank

American Holidays manager Karen Sheals Hoy with Astrid Bell, cruise product manager
American Holidays manager Karen Sheals Hoy with Astrid Bell, cruise product manager American Holidays manager Karen Sheals Hoy with Astrid Bell, cruise product manager

AN Irish high street travel firm has opened a new premises in a former Belfast city centre bank.

American Holidays has set up its new premises in the former Ulster Bank branch on Lombard Street, which has been vacant for a number of years.

The company, which specialises in US travel, also operates in Dublin and Leeds, employing just over 50 people. It first opened in Lombard Street in 1991.

Store manager Karen Sheals Hoy said the new location will allow for the expansion of the travel firm’s retail shop and call centre in Belfast.

“We pride ourselves in offering a seamless and dedicated customer journey delivered through exceptional service,” said the manager. “It is this passion shown by the team that resonates with our customers and gives them confidence in the services we offer.

“Today American Holidays has over 50 staff based in Belfast, Dublin and Leeds and we are proud to be part of the world’s largest collection of specialist travel brands,” she added.

The travel firm said its new larger premises, which includes a dedicated training room, will also facilitate staff training both within the company and across the trade.

“American Holidays has developed longstanding relationships across the industry, and we continue to forge new associations,” said Ms Sheals Hoy.

“American Holidays prides itself in having a dedicated team in place to negotiate and secure the best prices for our customers, so we can remain competitive in the marketplace.”

American Holidays is part of Travelopia, described by the company as the world’s largest collection of specialist travel brands.