Leading travel specialist Kuoni won ‘Best Tour Operator of the Year’ and ‘Best Travel Team of the Year’ (a new award for 2012) at the TTG Travel Awards 2012, as voted for and shortlisted by 30,000 travel agents and a judging panel of industry experts.
With stiff competition in the form of other shortlisted companies, Kuoni stepped up to the stage to be congratulated by celebrity guest host, actor and comedian, David Walliams and TTG Brand Director, Daniel Pearce.
The red-carpet event was held at London’s prestigious Odeon West End theatre on Leicester Square. Celebrations continued at the exclusive after-show party in the Penthouse night club, Leicester Square with live music and stunning views of London’s skyline.
Over 700 movers and shakers of the travel industry flooded Leicester Square, setting it alight with true Hollywood glitz and glamour for a show-stopping ceremony, including Kuoni UK Managing Director Derek Jones, National Sales Manager for Trade Amanda Darrington and National Sales Manager for Retail Helen Roberts.
Commenting on Kuoni’s win, Derek Jones, Kuoni UK MD said: “The TTG Awards ceremony was a spectacular evening of entertainment showcasing the best of the best in our industry.
“We are delighted to have been voted best ‘Tour Operator of the Year’ and we are thrilled to have won their new award for best ‘Travel Team Agency of the Year’, in recognition of the outstanding hard work and commitment of everyone at Kuoni.
“Kuoni has enjoyed considerable success in the past in both the Long Haul and Luxury Tour Operator categories but we have never before won in the Best Tour Operator section which includes all tour operators large and small.
“I am so proud of the team’s achievements and to have been recognised by our industry peers with these accolades.”
TTG Brand Director, Daniel Pearce added: “I’d personally like to congratulate Kuoni on winning ‘Tour Operator of the Year’ and ‘Travel Team Agency of the Year’ at the TTG Travel Awards 2012. With over 30,000 travel agent ratings and an esteemed panel of judges, our rigorous judging process makes winning these awards a huge achievement in the travel industry.”
Judges for the awards include experts from trade bodies and leading travel companies and the Institute of Travel and Tourism, as well as leading figures from the worlds of commerce and retail.