Fred Olsen Travel has announced the opening of its 23rd branch in Tonbridge, marking a significant expansion for the company.
- The Tonbridge location will serve as Fred Olsen Travel’s flagship store and is positioned to meet a £2 million turnover target within its opening years.
- This will be the group’s sixth concept store, located in a prime central area of Tonbridge.
- The company is actively recruiting staff and appointing experienced personnel to manage the new branch.
- Fred Olsen Travel plans further expansions, aiming for at least 25 stores by 2025.
Fred Olsen Travel is set to enhance its presence with the launch of its 23rd branch located in Tonbridge. Positioned as the flagship store, it seeks to achieve a £2 million turnover in the first two to three years. As the sixth concept store in the network, it signifies a bold step in the company’s strategic expansion.
The new store in Tonbridge will be situated in a refurbished central building that previously served as a beer cellar, boasting modern facilities including five desks and a luxury cruise lounge. Emphasising comfort, the store will also feature a dedicated area furnished with a sofa and chairs, catering to high-end clients, in line with the group’s ambition to diversify its clientele base.
Recruitment for the new branch is underway, with an initial intake of three staff members. The management has appointed Bettina McCue, ex-branch manager at Baldwins Travel, to lead the store. Paul Hardwick, Retail Director, emphasises that the aim is not to attract existing clients of Baldwins Travel but to draw new customers and expand the market.
Hardwick describes Tonbridge as a sizeable market capable of supporting multiple agencies. He expresses confidence that the new store’s innovative concept, featuring in-store screens showcasing supplier-provided holiday content, will enhance customer engagement and diversify Fred Olsen’s perceived market identity beyond cruise offerings.
The expansion in Tonbridge is part of a broader growth strategy that has seen Fred Olsen Travel open four new stores and make two acquisitions in the last 14 months. With plans to add at least two more branches next spring, the group aims to reach a minimum of 25 stores by 2025, though Hardwick suggests this number could increase if opportunities arise.
Fred Olsen Travel’s new Tonbridge store marks a significant stride in its strategic growth, emphasising innovation and customer engagement.
