The 11th annual Wave Awards brought together the very best of the cruise industry at The Dorchester in London, with Old Town’s Swindon Travel Hub earning a place among the top four Retail Agents in the country. For a business celebrating only its first year of trading, the recognition marks a standout moment in its journey.
Hosted by acclaimed British comedian and actor Sally Phillips, who followed last year’s host Sue Perkins, the ceremony shone a spotlight on excellence across the cruise sector. With Virgin Voyages headlining the event as principal sponsor, the evening proved a glittering celebration of innovation and customer service.
Taking home the title of Best Retail Agent was Barrhead Travel, who are marking their 50th anniversary this year. Swindon Travel Hub proudly stood alongside them as one of the final four – an extraordinary achievement for a new independent travel business.
Shaun expressed both pride and disbelief at the nomination, sharing that he felt “overwhelmed to even be noticed, let alone shortlisted alongside such established names.” Ashley echoed the sentiment, saying the team “never imagined the store would be recognised so quickly,” and that reaching the final four “means the world to everyone who has supported us from day one.”
The success comes at a time of exciting expansion, with the team preparing to open their second store, strengthening their presence and furthering their commitment to personal, community-led travel expertise.
Despite missing out on the top spot, there was nothing but praise for Barrhead Travel from the Swindon Travel Hub team, who offered a warm congratulations and admiration for a milestone year in the company’s history.
For Swindon Travel Hub, the Wave Awards recognition serves as both a celebration and a springboard. With a second store on the horizon and a growing reputation within the cruise industry, the travel hub’s journey is only just beginning.
