Ballymena’s Travelmax Crowned UK & Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency in Hat Trick Historic Awards Win
The family-run female led travel agency in Ballymena is celebrating a landmark achievement after being crowned UK & Ireland’s No.1 Travel Agency at the prestigious TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies Awards – becoming the first Northern Ireland business in history to take home the overall title. Travelmax, which is marking its 25th year in business in 2026, secured multiple major accolades at the awards ceremony, held at Victoria Warehouse on Thursday 23rd April, in association with Wavemaker Hospitality.
The Ballymena-based agency was awarded:
TTG Top Travel Agency UK & Ireland (Overall Winner)
Top Travel Agency – Northern Ireland
TUI Community Hero Award
This remarkable achievement makes Travelmax the first Northern Ireland travel agency to be crowned overall UK & Ireland winner, while also being recognised for its outstanding contribution to the local community.
A Proud Moment for a Family Business
Speaking following the win, Savannah Bracewell, Sales, Media & Marketing Manager, said: “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 significance of the win shortly after collecting the UK & Ireland’s No.1 trophy: “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.”
After Maxine being in the travel business for over 40 years , this achievement is a unique milestone in the UK & Ireland travel industry.
More Than a Travel Agency
Judges praised Travelmax not only for its exceptional customer service and commercial success, but also for its strong commitment to community and responsible business practices.
Over the past year, the agency 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, Travelmax has built a reputation as a business that truly puts people first.
Celebrating 25 Years – and Looking Ahead
Founded in 2001, Travelmax has grown into a trusted name in travel, supported by a dedicated team of staff and homeworkers, all sharing a passion for delivering exceptional, personal service.
As the business celebrates its 25th anniversary, this milestone marks a defining moment – not only for the company, but for Northern Ireland’s growing presence within the UK & Ireland travel industry.
