Founded in 2012, Rapid Travel Group began as Rapid Accommodation Limited, a small venture created by three directors from diverse backgrounds. The founders, Karl, Linda, and Rebecca, came together with a shared vision to solve a growing challenge in the accommodation sector, particularly for contractors working on large-scale projects. Linda, who ran a bed and breakfast, noticed a surge in demand for contractor accommodation due to booming local industries, such as renewables and oil refineries. Rapid Accommodation was born from this need, offering flexible, contractor-friendly lodging solutions.
Initially operating from a shared landline phone and a back-bedroom office, Rapid's early days involved managing bookings through simple means—tracking reservations in a silver file and even a whiteboard! However, the company’s focus on serving contractors allowed it to grow quickly. In 2013, a pivotal shift occurred when Rapid transitioned to serve exclusively VAT-registered businesses, moving away from individual contractor bookings. This change allowed Rapid to meet the specific needs of businesses while offering VAT-compliant pricing.
As the company expanded, it adapted its services to cater to construction companies, a sector often overlooked by traditional travel management companies. Recognizing the demand for more comprehensive services, Rapid began cross-hiring properties across the UK, including hotels, self-catering accommodations, and bed & breakfasts, enabling the company to serve businesses wherever their projects took them.
By 2017, Rapid's growth was undeniable. With its client base expanding, turnover doubled year-on-year. In response to client requests, Rapid launched a sister company, Rapid Business Travel Limited, to handle additional services such as flights, rail, and ferry bookings. Eventually, the two companies merged into Rapid Travel Group in 2019, offering a seamless, full-service solution for business travel and accommodation.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the travel industry faced significant challenges, Rapid continued to grow. The company’s focus on supporting essential workers and navigating the complexities of travel restrictions positioned it as a vital partner for its clients. Today, Rapid is proud to have surpassed the £5 million turnover mark, continuing its upward trajectory.
With a strong foundation built on innovation, flexibility, and client-centered service, Rapid Travel Group remains committed to its mission of being the number one travel management destination for the construction industry. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our growth, with plans to reach the £10 million milestone in the next few years.
We're specialists in a range of Industries; everything from Construction to Renewables, Shipping and Education!
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Find out more about our service and see if it's the right fit for your company.
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Our business is all about relationships; with our Clients, our Accommodation Providers, Suppliers, and Partners.
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Got a question or would like to know more?
Give us a call on 0330 090 41 42 (our UK local rate number) or email info@rapidtravelgroup.com.
© 2024 Rapid Travel Group Limited
Registered in England & Wales (08074002), VAT Reg: GB181522716
107 Cleethorpe Road, Grimsby, DN31 3ER, United Kingdom