Tributes have been paid to Barrhead Travel founder Bill Munro after his death at the age of 80. The entrepreneur died on Saturday at his home in Lanarkshire, having been ill since the summer.
Mr Munro built his company in East Renfrewshire in 1975, after finding a gap in the market for an agency that opened in the evenings and at weekends. The firm expanded to have hundreds of employees and dozens of stores throughout Scotland, England and Northern Ireland. Mr Munro was hailed by as having delivered “transformational impact” to the travel sector.
Barrhead Travel was founded by Mr Munro in East Renfrewshire in 1975, and has since went on to have stores in dozens of locations throughout the United Kingdom. He stepped down from the helm of the company in 2007, with his daughter Sharon succeeding, but he remained a presence with the agency. The business was sold to US-based Travel Leaders Group in 2018, and was by that time one of the UK’s biggest travel agents.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
Bill Munro’s journey began with a simple desire to book a last-minute holiday. Frustrated by the limited hours of traditional travel agencies, he saw an opportunity and took a leap of faith. In 1975, he opened the doors of Barrhead Travel in the town of Barrhead, Scotland, defying the 9-to-5 norm by operating in the evenings and on weekends. His foresight paid off, with eager customers lining up every Saturday morning, eager to secure their travel plans.
Building a Legacy
The early years, however, were far from easy. Long hours and slim margins characterized the first decade of Barrhead Travel’s existence. “It is a volume business, so unless you are doing huge volumes you are not going to make any money,” Munro explained. His commitment, however, never wavered. As the company grew, Munro's vision for specialized departments, each focused on specific travel niches, set Barrhead Travel apart. This approach allowed the company to build expertise and provide specialized services that resonated with a growing customer base.
Embracing Change
The late 1990s witnessed a seismic shift in the travel industry with the rise of the internet. Instead of viewing this as a threat, Munro and his daughter Sharon, who was deeply involved in the business, saw it as an opportunity. Barrhead Travel embraced the digital landscape, becoming one of the first British travel agencies to establish an online booking platform. This strategic move further solidified the company's position in the market.
A Transformational Leader
Munro's leadership transcended the traditional business model. He was not merely an entrepreneur; he was a visionary. He recognized the importance of building strong relationships with reliable travel operators, ensuring customers received exceptional support even during unexpected disruptions, such as the chaos caused by the Icelandic volcano eruption in 2010.
A Legacy of Innovation
Barrhead Travel continued to innovate under Munro’s guidance. In the late 2000s, they opened stores at former petrol stations, providing a convenient booking experience for families on the go. This unique approach further solidified the company's reputation for innovation and customer-centricity.
Handing Over the Reins
In 2007, Munro made a strategic decision to pass the torch to his daughter Sharon, who had been instrumental in the company's digital growth. Sharon's leadership ushered in a new era of growth and expansion for Barrhead Travel, making it one of the most prominent travel agencies in the UK.
A Controversial Figure
In the years following his departure from the helm of Barrhead Travel, Munro made headlines for his outspoken views on Scottish independence. In 2014, he sent an email to staff, expressing his opposition to independence, which he later clarified was his personal opinion and not that of the company.
A Complex Legacy
While Munro's legacy is undeniable, his later years were marred by a tumultuous exit from Barrhead Travel. In 2018, the company was acquired by the American firm Travel Leaders Group, and Munro took on an advisory role. However, the arrangement ended acrimoniously when he was dismissed from the role.
A Life of Vision and Dedication
Bill Munro's life story is a testament to vision, dedication, and a profound understanding of the travel industry. From humble beginnings, he transformed Barrhead Travel into a leading force in the UK, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire those within the travel sector. His unwavering commitment to customer service and his willingness to embrace change set a high bar for success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Remembering a Travel Pioneer
Bill Munro's impact on the travel industry is undeniable. His vision, drive, and unwavering commitment to customer service left a lasting mark. His journey from a small shop in Barrhead to a leading travel agency is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his unwavering belief in the power of hard work.
