Quick Facts:
Name: Paul
Surname: Bertram
Age: 56
Location: London
Role: Head of Brand
Company: Group Tour Shop
Get to know the people behind the leaders of some of the travel industry’s top innovative companies. Paul Bertram, Brand Head of Group Tour Shop, discusses the incredible growth he’s seen in his limited time with the company. Find out what makes the leadership team here so different, as well as some of the incredible destinations and innovations that will take the industry by storm.
Group Tour Shop, a sister company to one of Europe’s top tour operators, is one such innovation. By offering tour operators of the industry a range of pre-set tours, customisable offerings and white-label packages, anyone who dreams of operating a tour can build one! Let’s hear more about this exciting idea from Paul.
Looking back since you started until now, what are you most excited to have seen remain intact?
It’s amazing to see the positivity and togetherness stretch across all departments. There is a real willingness to support each other; something that is critical to retain as we grow each brand.
And what changes have made you most excited about the future?
It’s exciting to see how we have created, implemented and fully embraced the processes both internally and externally that will drive the business forward.
What excites you about the future of the company?
I am beyond excited about how we develop other source markets, exploring ways to provide the optimum experience no matter what the demand.
Has any previous career experience helped you in the travel industry?
I have pretty much spent all of my 30+ years of employment working in travel. Although, there is always something new to learn.
Why does travel strike such a harmonious chord with you?
I actually love the idea that we have a responsibility to deliver an experience that can form lifelong memories for our clients. That is a very privileged position to be in and one we take very seriously.
Where and when did the travel bug bite?
I think I have always loved adventure, starting with family trips to our caravan in Northumberland when I was around 6 years old.
Could you recommend 3 destinations everyone has to see?
I will always say Rome as it is my favourite city. I have just travelled to the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia and that was a stunning experience. I would also say the Florida Keys are very unique.
What makes the leadership team here so different?
They are very focused individuals who know exactly what it takes to be successful. But they are also understanding of the challenges we all face either individually or as a group, and will be as supportive as possible to enable everyone to reach the goal.
How do your core values align with the company’s?
When your personal values align with the core values of the organisation, it creates a sense of purpose and fulfilment. It’s also powerful that these values guide both internal and external collaborations, reinforcing a consistent and authentic approach to your work.
What specific values do you feel resonate most with you in your role?
It is vital to respect the wishes of the customer, and we will always make every effort to ensure we deliver on what we have committed to. It is also extremely important to listen to and consider the opinions of those around you. You never know what you might learn in the most unexpected circumstances.
How, in your experience, has working in the industry changed in the last decade?
Technology has revolutionised the industry significantly during this time. However, whilst accessibility, pricing, and transparency to products have completely changed from when I first started, the importance of a direct relationship with your clients and suppliers is still key. In fact, it is probably more critical to success than ever before.
Where do you see the travel industry in the next decade?
I have been told for years now that group travel is a thing of the past. Well, it is still going strong and I have never seen it healthier. It is a special experience to make new memories on your holiday, but making them with new lifelong friends is priceless.
What most excites you about where the company is right now?
I'm incredibly excited about both where the company is right now and where Group Tour Shop will go in the future. We have an amazing team and incredible colleagues across the TourAxis family. We are working with our key existing partners to develop new itineraries and discover fresh destinations to help us grow together. Finally, expanding into new markets, such as Asia and North America, will undeniably be a lot of hard work but I am sure it will turn out more than worth it in the end.
For more about Group Tour Shop, including Paul’s incredible staff, an exciting array of customisable and white-label tours, and to get in touch, check out the Group Tour Shop website.
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