Jet2holidays was named best large travel business to work for at the second Best Workplaces in Travel Awards last night.

EasyJet holidays scooped top slot in the medium-sized category, while luxury cruise agency Panache Cruises topped the small business list.

Winter specialist Ski Solutions took home the ‘we try harder’ award after it increased its overall score by a full seven points against 2022.

Santa Claus Trips, which provides Lapland experiences, was recognised as the happiest workplace in travel.

Holiday Extras and corporate travel management company Agito were placed in the UK’s top 25 best workplaces for the first time.

 The awards at London’s Rose Court celebrated travel firms which have invested in their people through the pandemic and the recovery after it.

Employees were asked to rate what their bosses value at work through a survey.

The employees of more than 75 travel businesses said the top criteria that make a great place to work were respect for work-life balance, supportive leaders, being part of a team, everyone feeling valued, and recognition for a job well done.

Co-founder Gail Kenny said: “We introduced these awards last year with the view to help drive employee engagement, and to improve our industry’s reputation, with the objective to showcase travel as a great industry to work in.

“I’m delighted to congratulate the brilliant travel brands who made the list – the calibre of entrants was outstanding. We’re excited to already be planning next year’s awards, which will launch at the end of the 2023.”

Co-founder of workplace culture experts Hendrick & Hyde Jane Sunley said: “The benefits speak for themselves. Industry recognition will help boost employer brands which ultimately helps attract, engage, and retain talent.”