Macclesfield travel agent is new Chairman for NW ABTA

Richard Slater, owner of Henbury Travel in Macclesfield, has been elected as the new Chairman of ABTA in the North West of England.

ABTA is the largest travel trade association in the country and Richard’s remit is to pursue the interests of ABTA travel companies and their customers throughout the North West – as well as championing the vital role high street retailers play in communities.

Richard said: “More and more 18 to 21 year olds are booking with high street travel agents – as opposed to their parents who tend to book online.”

“These kids want their first holidays to be an unforgettable experience, put together by someone they can trust and at an affordable price. They’ve grown up with the internet and social media, so they are very aware of the pitfalls as well as the positives both have to offer.”

“ . . . I know just how vital a local travel agent is as part of the local business community. In spite of reports of the death of the high street and nobody using travel agents anymore, over the last 10 years increasingly we have seen customers coming back to us. They really appreciate our expert guidance through the wide choice of travel options available and help in selecting travel arrangements that will best suit their needs and likes.”