A long-standing Armagh travel agency is preparing for a major change — but one that owner Shirley Smyth says will allow her team to continue delivering the same trusted service in a more flexible way.
After almost four decades in business, Professional Travel will close its Thomas Street office in Armagh on November 1, with operations set to continue from its Dungannon base and through staff working remotely.
Announcing the news, Shirley — who first founded Professional Travel in Dungannon in 1986 before expanding into Armagh six years later — said the move marked a new chapter for the company, not the end of the story.
“After nearly 40 years I feel the time is right to restructure the business to allow for a more flexible working environment,” she said.
“As of November 1, we will be closing our physical office in Armagh. Our team will continue to serve all our valued customers, with some members working from home and others relocating to our Dungannon office.
“You can continue to reach us through the same email address and phone number you have always used.
“I believe these changes will enhance the already excellent service we provide and centralise 160 years of travel expertise in one location.”
Shirley, who has built a loyal customer base across generations, thanked her Armagh clients for their decades of support.
“We would like to thank you all for your loyal support over the years and know the many friendships made will last beyond the miles,” she added. “If you’re brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello.”
Professional Travel’s journey began almost four decades ago when Shirley — then just 23 years old — spotted a “To Let” sign on Dungannon’s Market Square and decided to open her own agency.
In a previous interview with Armagh I, she recalled how she painted the walls herself and took her first ever booking for an Ulsterbus Express ticket to London. Within a year, she had repaid her start-up loan and was running a thriving travel agency through some of the most turbulent times for local business.
The Armagh branch opened in the early 1990s and quickly became a staple on Thomas Street, known for its warm service and attention to detail.
Customers will still be able to book holidays and speak to the same friendly faces they’ve known for years, either through the Dungannon office or remotely.
Professional Travel’s Dungannon office remains open and ready to welcome clients old and new — and for Shirley Smyth, it’s not goodbye, but simply the next stop on a journey nearly 40 years in the making.
