Hays Travel Explorer Franchisee Celebrates Business Milestone

Hays Travel Explorer franchisee, Jon Burton, is celebrating one year since the launch of his independent business, Fairclough Travel.

Before opening Fairclough Travel in 2023, Jon worked in the telecommunications sector, until he suddenly had a stroke on Christmas Eve 2015.

Jon said: “After the health scare, I rethought my life goals and realised that I wanted to start afresh. Post-2015, I worked in healthcare before developing an interest in the travel industry and opened Fairclough Travel in 2023.

“A year on, it is the best thing I have ever done. I have been fortunate enough to have met amazing fellow Hays Travel Explorers, been on a cruise ship visit, plus an educational trip to Mallorca and attended many events which have taught me lots about different destinations.

I am also Explorer’s British Franchise Association (BFA) Champion, which means that I am the interface between other franchisees and the BFA – this connection ensures that franchisees receive the appropriate support and have a voice.

“The next twelve months will involve lots of marketing focus, including investing in several promotional materials, and I’ll also be doing further destination training and look forward to being able to return the amazing support and welcome I have received over the past year.

I am also proud to be able to give back to the local community with Fairclough Travel now sponsoring my local cricket team, Woodley Cricket Club for the next two years to help make sport accessible to all.”

Hays Travel acquired homeworking franchise company Explorer Travel in 2021, after former owner Steve Wood left the travel industry to pursue other interests.  At that time there were just over 70 franchise businesses.  Since then, the number has increased by almost 40%.

Steven Reilly, Head of Explorer Franchise, said: “We are very proud of Jon’s achievements and his resilience after experiencing a serious medical issue. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Jon and Fairclough Travel as it continues to grow from strength to strength.”