Barrhead Travel is set to expand its retail footprint with strategic locations in Northern Ireland and beyond. This move comes as part of their plan to enhance their high street presence despite online competition.
- The company’s second store in Northern Ireland is poised to open in Newtownabbey, highlighting the region’s potential as identified by President Jacqueline Dobson.
- While emphasising quality over quantity, Barrhead Travel seeks to secure locations once the right team and environment are identified.
- Discussions with governmental bodies such as the SPAA and Scottish Chambers of Commerce ensure the agency’s interests align with broader legislative changes.
- Despite online challenges, Barrhead Travel underscores the importance of personal interaction, distinguishing itself with a ‘human touch’ in customer service.
Barrhead Travel is making a significant move towards expanding its retail presence, with plans for new locations in Northern Ireland. The strategic actions are highlighted by the imminent opening of a second store in Newtownabbey. This expansion is seen as a stepping stone, capitalising on what Jacqueline Dobson, the company’s president, describes as ‘ample opportunity’ in the region. The approach underscores the agency’s focus on thoughtful growth rather than sheer size, as Dobson noted, “We don’t believe that being the biggest amounts to being the best. We’re focusing on quality locations.”
Further discussions around expansion include potential new stores outside of Northern Ireland. Although no firm commitments have been made regarding Wales, Dobson hinted at possible opportunities in the area, reflecting the agency’s broader geographical interests.
In addition to expansion plans, Barrhead Travel is actively engaging with UK governmental bodies through the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association (SPAA) and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. This involvement aims to address key operational concerns such as business rates and taxes and to advocate for investment in high streets to maintain their relevance. “We have to make sure the high street stays current,” Dobson asserted, highlighting the necessity for physical retail spaces to adapt to evolving consumer expectations.
The agency’s commitment to preserving a ‘human touch’ in its service model sets it apart from online competitors. While acknowledging the presence of online travel agencies, Dobson emphasised the value of direct human interaction, which remains a core aspect of Barrhead’s service philosophy. “If something goes wrong, you can always come into one of our stores or pick up the phone or send an email,” she said, reiterating the agency’s pledge to accessible and personalised service.
On the transportation front, Dobson pointed out improvements in airlift from Edinburgh and Glasgow, though she expressed concerns about insufficient US-bound services from Glasgow. Further, she noted challenges with domestic air travel, particularly the limited frequency of flights such as those connecting Glasgow and Gatwick.
Despite challenges, Barrhead Travel has experienced an upswing in average selling prices, partly attributed to increased consumer interest in upgraded travel options, such as luxury cruise cabins. This trend has been supported by recent reductions in pricing that stimulated sales, a testament to Barrhead Travel’s dynamic pricing strategies.
Moreover, Barrhead Travel’s collaboration with its parent company, Internova Travel Group, highlights cross-Atlantic learning and strategic alignment. Dobson cited the adoption of innovative ideas and synergies with suppliers as key benefits of this relationship, allowing Barrhead to optimise its market offerings.
Barrhead Travel’s strategic expansion and emphasis on personalised service underscore its commitment to adapting and thriving in a competitive market.
