In boardrooms, classrooms, hospitals and homes across the UK, a growing number of people in their late 40s, 50s, and even 60s are quietly rewriting the rules of what a career path looks like.
They’re not slowing down.
They’re not settling for burnout, stress, or redundancy.
They’re starting businesses — and succeeding.
This rise in later-life entrepreneurship has been a growing trend over the past few years. And at the heart of it? Franchising.
For many, franchising provides the perfect blend of support, structure, and self-determination. And one company seeing this shift up close is The Travel Franchise, which has helped hundreds of people — many in their 40s and 50s with no prior industry experience — launch profitable, home-based travel businesses.
What’s driving the boom?
For some, it’s redundancy.
For others, it’s exhaustion after decades in a high-pressure role.
Some simply want more flexibility, or to finally do something they enjoy and build something of their own.
Others need to top up their pension.
The Travel Franchise reports that it has seen a huge growth in interest from older professionals in recent years, particularly among those coming from public sector careers like teaching, the NHS and the police force, or from corporate roles with long commutes and little joy.
These individuals are seeking a second act — one that combines purpose, income and lifestyle. And they’re finding it in franchising. What’s more — they’re really good at it, with many building six-figure businesses within their first couple of years.
Why The Travel Franchise stands out
With its consumer-facing brand Not Just Travel, The Travel Franchise offers a pathway into the booming travel sector — no experience required. In fact, 98% of their franchisees are brand new to travel.
What makes it particularly appealing to older entrepreneurs?
- Structured onboarding with step-by-step training
- Flexible working from home or abroad
- Low overhead and no need for staff or premises
- Ongoing support including mentoring and overseas retreats
- A business rooted in real human connection
- Opportunities to travel and see the world
It’s a model that works especially well for people who bring life experience, people skills, and a desire to do meaningful work.
Real people, real reinvention
Many of The Travel Franchise’s most successful consultants are career changers over 40.
- Anne Mosley, a former midwife in her 50s, launched her home-based travel business just 10 months ago. She’s already achieved £600,000 in sales and expects a turnover of £750,000 in her first year.
- Julie-Anne, a teacher for 29 years, left education in 2019 due to long hours and a desire to spend more time with her children. She now lives her dream life as a travel consultant and often earns a five-figure monthly income.
“I shouldn’t say this, but it’s like a hobby. I don’t feel like I ever go to work. I come back from leaving the children at school and I sometimes pinch myself. It just gives me freedom and flexibility. I feel like I’m living my life a little bit more.”
- The Coynes, a couple who left the police force — and the stress and shift work that came with it — behind, now run a thriving travel business together, enjoying complete control over their time and lifestyle.
- Marietta Maidman was made redundant at 59 and is now building her dream home in Cyprus, with the flexibility to travel the world.
- Julie MacDonald, let go at 49 after holding a senior role in financial services for over a decade, now earns a solid income with time to travel and tick off her bucket-list destinations.
The emotional impact
According to co-founder Paul Harrison, the transformation is often emotional:
“We’ve had people cry tears of relief, realising they’re finally doing something they love. They’re no longer stuck — they’re free.”
Franchising not only gives people a roadmap — it restores confidence and control.
“For many, it’s the first time they’ve felt excited about work in years. And the bonus is that they can earn good money doing it.”
According to Harrison, some of the company’s most successful agents, earning six-figure incomes, are over 45.
For those approaching middle age, it’s proof that it’s never too late to launch your own business.
In fact, this might be the perfect time.
For more information, visit The-Travel-Franchise.com
