Colin Duncan and Phil Westwood, founders of coach tour operator Dunwood, on receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Group Travel Award and 30 years of business.
Three decades ago, friends Phil and Colin were catching up over a few pints when they made a big decision - to set up their own group tour operator company. They both had experience in the travel industry and while they faced a challenging time, things began to take off.
In fact, what began with just one employee and a couple of day trips is now a thriving multi award-winning operator with more than 30 members of staff, a fleet of coaches and a huge range of day trips and tours across the UK and Europe.
This year, West Midlands-based Dunwood celebrates 30 years of business and 2023 was its busiest year ever, with 2024 set to top that.
Colin and Phil were in for a surprise at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards ceremony in June when they were both called up on stage to be recognised with a special accolade - the Outstanding Contribution to Group Travel Award.
The special award is rarely presented and only given to exceptional individuals who have expertly served the group travel industry.
About Dunwood
The coach tour operator, aimed at the over 50s age group, takes groups all over the UK, Ireland, Jersey and Europe. The dedicated group sales team, including Mandy, Zoe and Stuart, have more than 75 years’ experience between them.
Dunwood has been voted the Best Coach or Tour Operator - UK Tours for the last five years in a row in the Group Leisure & Travel Awards.
Speaking after the presentation, Phil said: “It means everything to be recognised for this contribution, for everything that we have done and achieved – we have to thank the team back at the office. They are outstanding. Not only the sales team but the admin support, our drivers of course and not forgetting our partners who have contributed to the success of Dunwood.
“These men are legends. Their staff and customers have always been treated with respect, compassion and understanding.”
Zoe Poston, group sales executive, Dunwood
“I’ve enjoyed everything. From starting out and wondering if we could possibly make this work for six months, to now having achieved our 30th anniversary is unbelievable. I’d say to any youngster coming into the business, grab it with both hands, it’s a wonderful industry that you gain so much from. Put in as much as you can and you’ll get the recompense.”
“Phil and Colin were given the nicknames Laurel & Hardy and are simply the best! Without a doubt the pair deserve this award after an outstanding 30 years plus in the travel industry, giving their all to our group organisers.”
Mandy Hill, group sales manager at Dunwood
Colin, who retired in August 2023, paid tribute to his great friendship with Phil over a 37-year period. Phil continues to take the company forward and is soon to welcome the arrival of three new coaches.
Speaking after the ceremony, Colin said: “I am absolutely blown away. I didn’t in a million years expect this to happen tonight.
“I love this industry, I love what we have done, it’s been a pleasure to be working with group organisers, a pleasure to work within an industry – it’s the best industry in the world. I can’t define one particular point, group organisers, our groups, people that we’ve worked with over the years, our partners, it’s been a wonderful hobby – I won’t call it work.”
