Ballymena’s Travelmax crowned UK & Ireland’s No.1 travel agency in historic hat-trick awards win

Proud winners - the Travelmax Ballymena team.

A family-run Ballymena business has made history after being named the UK & Ireland’s top travel agency — the first time a Northern Ireland company has ever secured the industry’s highest honour.

Travelmax, a female-led agency marking its 25th year in business, claimed the overall title at the prestigious TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies Awards, alongside two additional major accolades, in a landmark night for the local firm.

The awards ceremony, held at Victoria Warehouse on Thursday 23 April in association with Wavemaker Hospitality, saw the Ballymena-based agency take home:

• TTG Top Travel Agency UK & Ireland (Overall Winner)

• Top Travel Agency – Northern Ireland

• TUI Community Hero Award

The triple win cements Travelmax’s position at the very top of the travel industry across the UK and Ireland, while also spotlighting Northern Ireland on a stage where it has never before claimed the overall title.

Historic recognition for Ballymena-based business

The overall UK & Ireland award represents a major breakthrough not only for Travelmax but for the wider Northern Ireland travel sector, marking the first time a local agency has been recognised as the best across both regions.

Judges praised the agency for its exceptional customer service, commercial performance, and its strong commitment to community engagement — a combination that set it apart at the highest level of competition.

The recognition comes at a significant milestone moment for the business, which was founded in 2001 and is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026.

A proud moment for a family-run team

Speaking after the awards, Sales, Media & Marketing Manager Savannah Bracewell described the achievement as a defining moment for the entire team.

“We are incredibly proud to take home such prestigious achievements and to be recognised at the highest possible level. To be named the UK & Ireland’s Top Travel Agency is something most only have dreamed of.

“We are so grateful for the continued support of our amazing clients and colleagues - this truly means everything to us.”

Founder and owner Maxine Bracewell reflected on the journey behind the success, highlighting both the personal and professional significance of the win.

“What a wonderful way to celebrate our 25th year in business. I am so proud of all the travelmax team who’ve helped me achieve this amazing accolade.  We eat, sleep and breathe this business. I love and treat all our clients the same, regardless of what they spend.”

She added:

“When I started the business in 2001,, I decided I’d call it travelmax which is not only after my name, Maxine, but it means maximum value, maximum service, maximum choice, and we take it to the max.”

With more than 40 years’ experience in the travel industry, Maxine’s leadership has guided the company from its early beginnings to a position of national prominence.

More than a travel agency: community impact recognised

Celebrating excellence and success at the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies Awards

Beyond its commercial success, Travelmax’s role within the local community was a central factor in its awards success, with judges highlighting the agency’s sustained commitment to giving back.

Over the past year alone, the business has:

• Donated over £10,000 in holiday vouchers to support local fundraising initiatives

• Supported grassroots sport through sponsorships and equipment donations to schools and clubs

• Created a safe, welcoming space in-store for local children during school half-days

• Supported vulnerable communities through donations and outreach initiatives

• Championed local creativity by collaborating with local artists and schools

From transforming its shopfront into a public art gallery for local children to quietly supporting those in need, the agency has built a reputation that extends well beyond travel services.

The additional TUI Community Hero Award further underlined this impact, recognising the business’s contribution to local life alongside its industry achievements.

A defining moment for 25 years of growth

Founded in 2001, Travelmax has grown into a trusted name in the travel sector, supported by a dedicated team of staff and homeworkers who share a focus on delivering personal, high-quality service.

The business’s 25th anniversary year now carries added significance, with the awards marking a defining point in its journey from a local start-up to an industry-leading agency.

The achievement also signals a wider shift, highlighting Northern Ireland’s growing presence and influence within the UK and Ireland travel industry.

For Ballymena, it represents a moment of recognition on a national stage — with a local business setting a new benchmark for excellence across the sector.

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At a glance

• Travelmax named UK & Ireland’s No.1 travel agency at TTG Top 50 Awards

• First Northern Ireland business in history to win overall title

• Also won Top Travel Agency – Northern Ireland and TUI Community Hero Award

• Awards held at Victoria Warehouse on 23 April

• Business celebrates 25 years in 2026

• Founded in 2001 by Maxine Bracewell

• Judges praised customer service, performance, and community impact

• Over £10,000 donated in holiday vouchers in past year

• Strong support for local schools, sports clubs, and vulnerable groups

• Recognition highlights Northern Ireland’s growing industry presence