Glasgow-headquartered travel specialist Barrhead Travel has reported a “record-breaking” financial year ending 31 December 2025, as the company commemorated its 50th year of operations. The travel firm saw significant growth across key financial metrics, underscoring a robust performance in the leisure travel sector.
For the year under review, Barrhead Travel achieved a gross turnover of £381 million, an increase from £354 million in the preceding year. Reported turnover also saw an uptick, reaching £94.9 million, up from £89.9 million in 2024. The company’s gross profit rose to £47.4 million from £43.5 million, while adjusted EBITDA improved to £5 million, compared to £4.7 million in 2024.
In its strategic report, the firm highlighted continuous strong performance in both turnover and profitability as it entered its half-century in business. The report stated: “Building on the strong performance of 2024, we have continued to deliver excellent results in both turnover and profitability as we entered our milestone 50th year in business.”
The company noted a sustained consumer appetite for travel, which it attributed to reinforcing its position as a market leader. Directors observed the resilience of the UK leisure travel market, even amidst ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties. “Demand for travel has remained strong, reinforcing our position as a market leader and trusted provider of holidays,” the report affirmed.
Despite challenges such as the Middle East conflict, the introduction of tariffs in key markets, and inflationary pressures, Barrhead Travel indicated that these conditions have intensified the demand for expert advice. The strategic report elaborated: “These conditions have further reinforced the value of trusted travel experts, with customers increasingly seeking reassurance, expertise and financial protection when planning their holidays.”
The company experienced strong performance during both peak and off-peak travel periods, with notable growth in the family and multi-generational travel segments. Booking trends indicated a continued preference for early reservations, alongside a steady demand for additional and last-minute bookings, demonstrating the “enduring prioritisation of travel within discretionary spending.”
Operational milestones for 2025 included the expansion of the company’s retail presence with the opening of a new store in Rushmere, Northern Ireland. The Brilliant Travel division was identified as a key growth driver, further strengthening Barrhead Travel’s network with the addition of two Managed Service Travel Partners and 15 new home-based agents.
The celebration of its 50th anniversary, founded in 1975, was marked by a company-wide event, bringing together employees from across the business.
Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, Managing Director of Barrhead Travel, reflected on the milestone: “As we celebrate 50 years of Barrhead Travel, this milestone is really about the lasting connection we’ve built with our customers and the enduring appeal of travel itself.”
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“We continue to see strong appetite for holidays, with customers placing real value on experiences, quality time and expert advice when planning their trips. That’s where Barrhead Travel plays a key role — with our expert advice we help customers navigate more choice than ever by creating and tailoring the right holiday experience for them.”
“With demand remaining strong, our focus is on inspiring more people to travel, expanding our reach across the UK and continuing to deliver the personal service and expertise that customers can trust.”
