Wimeya founder Harry Wignall talks business growth as agency approaches two-year mark

I got into travel… after being fortunate enough to visit lots of amazing places in my teens. This sparked a passion for experiencing new things and destinations, and I knew I wanted to turn this passion into work. I was clueless about where to start, but my equally as travel‑obsessed dad helped me and I cold‑emailed 20 luxury tour operators asking for an internship. Two replied, and Abercrombie & Kent offered me a place on its recently created graduate scheme – I’ll always have huge love for A&K!

I started the business… in November 2023. I’d always flirted with the idea of starting my own business and, after seven years at A&K, it felt like a natural time to give it a go. I was inspired by some impressive young people doing exciting things in travel and decided it was now or never.

I’ve grown the company… by focusing on relationships. It’s all about trust and knowing we’re all in this together as a team. Guests know we have their best interests at heart and our partners trust we’ll send the right people to the right places. Travel has to be one of the most collaborative industries out there.

The biggest growth area is… definitely experiential and adventurous luxury travel. In a time where it’s so easy to become disillusioned with what’s happening all over the world, people seem to be seeking more meaningful, deeper connections with the places they’re visiting.

The suppliers I have the strongest relationships with are… too many to say! Since launch we’ve worked with countless partners, and all have shown immense support. As an independent business, a benefit is that there are no strict commercial partnerships to adhere to, which allows us to go into every enquiry with the client’s best interests at heart.

My proudest career achievement is… without a doubt winning Rising Star of the Year at the Aspire Awards in 2024. Being recognised as a leading new business after just 11 months of operation was truly a moment I’ll cherish for a long time.

My biggest industry bugbear is… General airport slowness – there’s something about having to navigate through dawdling airport crowds that raises the heart rate!