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OYSTER BAY, NY (May 5, 2026): NEST brought together its leading agency owners and preferred partners for a new executive‑level retreat that sparked new thinking and deepened relationships. The inaugural NEST Owners Focus Retreat gathered 120 participants from April 26–29 at PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, offering an environment tailored for reflection, collaboration, and strategic growth.
The retreat’s intimate format allowed agency owners to step away from daily demands and concentrate on the future of their businesses. The small-group focus and relaxed atmosphere created space for candid dialogue and meaningful connection. Interactive programs with thought-provoking speakers, one-on-one meetings, and social activities encouraged a vibrant exchange of ideas.
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“Owners Focus Retreat provides a setting for participants to examine how they approach their business,” said NEST President Kathryn Mazza-Burney. “The event inspires agency owners to explore innovative strategies for elevating their performance, supported by insights from their peers, preferred partners and our team.”
Perceptions From Peers and Industry Leaders
A full day of expert viewpoints anchored the retreat, highlighted by topical roundtables that fostered open, collaborative discussion. Owners shared perspectives on marketing, client acquisition and retention, independent contractor management, and ways to work more efficiently.
Additional sessions broadened the conversation. A panel of owners explored diversification as a path to long-term resilience and growth, while supplier executives shared industry observations in brief, lively interviews. Owners also enjoyed one-on-one time with suppliers as well as their NEST Business Analysts.
NEST executives provided updates on the network’s rapid expansion, noting that 20 agencies joined in the first quarter of 2026, contributing almost $60 million in preferred partner sales. Leaders also reviewed sales performance, technology initiatives, marketing programs and services, and a positive outlook for future sales.
“Owners Focus Retreat was a rare opportunity for owners to immerse themselves in fresh thinking to shape their future success,” said Wayne Spector, NEST Senior Vice President, Sales and Service. “One of NEST’s defining strengths is its community of supportive entrepreneurs, and that spirit was on display at our first OFR.”
Adapting to Change with Confidence
To help agency owners navigate an evolving travel landscape, change management specialist Rob Oddi led a session focused on staying grounded in core strengths while embracing collaboration.
Oddi led the owners in a hands-on activity, where they fashioned Lego creations that illustrated their achievements and challenges. The exercise uncovered common struggles and established a collaborative mindset for progress.
Deeper Connections Through Relaxed Networking
Throughout the retreat, attendees enjoyed numerous opportunities to strengthen relationships with peers, suppliers and the NEST team. Dinners, receptions and an outdoor Stargazing & S’mores evening encouraged genuine, flowing dialogue.
Owners Focus Retreat also offered a laid-back environment to recharge and connect. Activities such as golf, pickleball, spa experiences and a sip-and-swirl guided art session reinforced personal well-being and professional bonds.
About NEST
The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel is the industry’s first and only marketing group exclusively for independent home-based travel agencies. The company empowers home-based advisors to achieve greater success financially, professionally and personally by championing best practices, solutions and opportunities. NEST helps home-based travel entrepreneurs build their business, keep their identity and maintain control. The network delivers what home-based advisors need to increase their competitive edge and profitability, including a high level of personalized support, award-winning marketing, preferred partner portfolio, education, exclusive networking and events, and innovative technology. NEST also helps suppliers reach the rapidly growing home-based distribution channel with training, motivation, offers and compensation. For more information, visit www.jointhenest.com.
Tags: Kathryn Mazza-Burney NEST
