SA Chapter HALL OF FAME

Web: www.pht.com.au

Phil Hoffmann’s early career included the roles of a Senior Lecturer in Staff Development, and managing large retail and corporate travel agencies. He held significant leadership positions in the industry, including National Chair of AFTA (Australian Federation of Travel Agents). During this time he developed his own management techniques and customer care strategies.

In September 1990, Phil decided to use the wealth of industry knowledge he had acquired and establish his own business, Phil Hoffmann Travel. It did not take long for economic events to test his mettle. The domestic pilot strike began that year, followed by the first Gulf War and then the recession we had to have. The remainder of the 90s proved to be successful.

In case Phil thought that was the end of difficult times, in the new millennium September 11 only just got in front of the collapse of Ansett Airlines and then another Gulf War on the heels of the SARS crisis. Despite all that, the company prospered and Phil Hoffmann Travel became an icon in the travel industry.

Phil’s wife, Alison, has forty years experience in the Travel Industry.  Alison was Marketing Manager of the company for eight years and is an Executive Director of Phil Hoffmann Travel.

Phil and Alison have four daughters and all have played various roles in the family business at some time. Bianca inherited her father’s ‘passion for cruising’ gene and now works as a high-achieving Cruise Travel Consultant. Jana was previously Phil Hoffmann Travel web developer and graphic designer who is now furthering her experience with other companies.  Erin, a doctor and Amy, a teacher are currently living and working overseas. 

As a first generation family business, Phil Hoffmann Travel has achieved way beyond the norm, being voted AFTA National Travel Industry Travel Agent of the Year on eight occasions, most recently in 2011; Australia’s No. 1 corporate Agency and was an inaugural inductee into the Qantas Platinum Club.

First generation family businesses are inducted into the FBA (SA) Hall of Fame only if they have established themselves as an icon in their industry, an outstanding example of entrepreneurialism and a positive influence on the well-being of this state. Phil Hoffmann Travel in just 20 years has certainly achieved this.

Phil Hoffmann Travel was inducted into the FBA(SA) Hall of Fame in 2011.