Braunton Travel is expanding its presence with a new branch.
- Owner Sue Hunter celebrates a record-breaking month in business.
- Barnstaple, a high-footfall area, is chosen for the new location.
- The new branch aims to offer diverse and high-value holiday options.
- The expansion signifies a landmark achievement for Braunton Travel.
Braunton Travel’s strategic decision to open a third store follows its record-breaking sales month, showcasing the company’s robust market presence and growth trajectory. Sue Hunter, the business owner, is spearheading this expansion, marking a significant milestone by establishing a new store in Barnstaple, North Devon. This move is particularly noteworthy as it follows ten years after the opening of her original store and six years since the establishment of her Bideford location.
Sue Hunter’s enthusiasm for the new branch is palpable as she anticipates it to be the leading travel agency in the North Devon area. Her commitment to creating jobs and ensuring high-quality service underscores her dedication to the community. Hunter acknowledges the strategic advantage of the new store’s location at Gammon Walk, which, while not on the high street, boasts significant visibility and accessibility, ensuring steady customer traffic.
The potential for growth in Barnstaple is immense, with Hunter identifying an opportunity due to limited competition—only one independent agency and a Tui exist in the area. Hunter’s vision includes catering to a growing demand for high-value ‘bucket list’ holidays, a trend she has observed among her clients, who often express a desire to prioritise immersive travel experiences. This aligns with the shift towards ‘seize the moment’ travel attitudes, reflecting changed consumer behaviours post-pandemic.
Braunton Travel’s recent success, highlighted by a notable £40,000 cruise booking to Antarctica, exemplifies the company’s ability to attract significant business. Hunter is optimistic about the Barnstaple store outperforming its Braunton counterpart, attributing this potential to increased staff and enhanced visibility. Although building the new store’s reputation will require time and dedication, Hunter is confident in her team’s ability to meet customer needs effectively.
In addition to her growth strategy, Hunter remains committed to maintaining personalised services, pledging to find the ideal holidays suited to each customer’s unique preferences. The planned hiring of four staff members for the new branch signals her ambition and readiness to accommodate a growing clientele with comprehensive travel solutions. Her leadership was recently acknowledged at the Hays Travel IG conference, where Braunton Travel was recognised for the greatest increase in profit margins.
The expansion into Barnstaple represents a strategic leap for Braunton Travel, poised to enhance its role as a leading agency in North Devon.
