Glasgow Chamber of Commerce chief executive Stuart Patrick has paid tribute to Barrhead Travel founder Bill Munro, who has died at the age of 80, describing the travel industry stalwart as "a straight-talking, no-nonsense businessman with an astute mind”.
Mr Patrick declared that Mr Munro had “defied the odds when many believed the era of travel agencies was ending in the face of the internet’s rise”.
The Glasgow Chamber chief said: “We remember Bill as a remarkable figure in the community - a straight-talking, no-nonsense businessman with an astute mind and an unbreakable commitment to customer service and innovation.
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“As a lifetime achievement award winner at the Glasgow Business Awards in 2018, Bill defied the odds when many believed the era of travel agencies was ending in the face of the internet’s rise. His legacy lives on in the success of Barrhead Travel, a testament to his vision and dedication. He will be deeply missed, but his influence and accomplishments will continue to inspire us all.”
Mr Munro founded Barrhead Travel in 1975 and built it up into a major business.
The Glasgow-based business was sold to US-based Travel Leaders Group in 2018, and was by that time one of the UK’s biggest travel agents.
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A Barrhead Travel spokesman said on Monday: “It’s been almost 50 years since Bill Munro founded Barrhead Travel. His bold vision fundamentally changed the landscape for high street travel agents across the country. He made a tremendous contribution to the overall travel industry as well as becoming an influential figure within the Scottish business community.
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife, daughters and wider family and friends.”
Travel Leaders Group is a division of Internova Travel Group.
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