Envoyage, part of the Flight Centre Travel Group’s (FCTG) independent travel network, has launched its first branded shopfronts globally, unveiling two new stores in Rockingham Centre and Mandurah Forum Shopping Centre in Western Australia.
These world-first stores operate under the Envoyage brand but are independently owned and managed by Clive and Sam Fillingham, experienced local travel agency operators with decades of success in the industry.
A unique business model for travel entrepreneurs
Envoyage General Manager Australia Nick Queale says the Envoyage shopfront model allows independent owners to combine the freedom of running their own business with the support and resources of a globally recognised travel brand.
According to Queale, the model is ideal for passionate entrepreneurs who value flexibility but want access to a robust business ecosystem.
“Our company has an incredibly successful 42-year retail history, so Envoyage owners can choose to invest in a shopfront, backed by a strong brand name,” he said.
“The difference is that they have the freedom to run their business in a way that works for them,” Queale said.
“Our model is designed for passionate travel entrepreneurs who value flexibility and independence.
“Clive and Sam bring decades of experience and embody the values of Envoyage, and we are confident their expertise and customer-first approach will continue to make a lasting impact in their communities.”
Queale added that Envoyage offers owners a wide range of benefits, including finance support, learning and development opportunities, and access to supplier relationships. And these features are continually evolving to ensure owners remain competitive in a rapidly changing industry, Queale said.
“This is going to drive a whole new level of interest and engagement from customers, and we’re really excited to work with our members to grow their shopfronts with total flexibility and independence.”
Insights from the owners
Clive Fillingham, co-owner of the Rockingham and Mandurah Envoyage stores, spoke highly of the support and flexibility provided by the brand, which has allowed him to shape the business to reflect his values and vision.
“It was an easy decision to partner with Envoyage for the next step in our business journey. We have a strong affinity with the brand’s direction and the team has been nothing but supportive through the change,” Fillingham said.
“Freedom and flexibility are important to us and Envoyage delivers both. We’re empowered to run our business in a way that works for us but are able to tap into the brand’s resources as much or as little as we need – which anyone who runs a travel agency knows can change on a weekly basis!
“I feel we’re in a position where we have more time to focus on building relationships with our clients and create the best travel experiences we can.
“We’re really proud to have Envoyage on our door and look forward to growing the brand together with the mutual goal of delivering amazing travel experiences with the quality and attentive service we pride ourselves on.”
A new era for travel agencies?
The launch of Envoyage’s shopfronts in Western Australia represents an innovative approach to the travel industry. By offering a model that combines local expertise with the resources of a global brand, Envoyage is setting a new standard for how travel agencies can operate.
These shopfronts are expected to have a positive impact on their local communities, providing tailored travel services while maintaining the personal touch of independently owned businesses. With their customer-first focus, Clive and Sam Fillingham are well-placed to lead this initiative and deliver exceptional travel experiences.
