Baldwins Travel has launched a franchise business targeting both new entrants and experienced agents in the travel industry.
Managing Director Nick Marks believes it is an opportune time to expand and offers a promising prospect for potential franchisees.
Expanding Presence Across Regions
A member of the Advantage Travel Partnership, Baldwins Travel boasts 11 branches across Kent, Sussex, and Lincolnshire.
In a strategic move aimed at industry growth, Baldwins Travel recently acquired Westerham Travel in Kent and opened its 10th branch in Grantham, Lincolnshire. This marks their first expansion outside the southeast in the company’s 129-year history, reflecting their ambitious growth plans.
Commitment to Franchisees
Managing Director Nick Marks emphasises the positive relationships that Baldwins Travel has cultivated with tour operators and business travel partners. “>“We want to get people earning what they think they should be earning as a franchisee,” Marks asserts, highlighting the financial potential for prospective franchisees.
To support its new venture, Sally Ward, Senior Retail Manager, has been appointed as Business Development Manager for The Travel Specialist franchise. Ward will be instrumental in nurturing and providing necessary training resources to franchisees, ensuring they succeed in their business ventures.
Focus on Experienced Team and Expansion Plans
Ward underscores the passion and extensive experience of the Baldwins team, noting the high staff retention. This is seen as a significant positive indicator of the company’s healthy working environment.
“We have huge staff retention; people stay with us for years and years, which is a really positive sign that we are doing something right,” she stated.
Emphasising their research and preparedness, Ward mentioned, “We have put a lot of research into this; we do have plans for expansion and getting as many on board as possible to work under our umbrella.”
Supporting Homeworking Agents and New Businesses
The franchise initiative aims to support homeworking agents, who will also assist in handling customer calls outside regular office hours. This flexibility is a part of Baldwins Travel’s commitment to adapting to modern work environments.
Marks revealed that two potential franchisees are already in talks to establish bricks-and-mortar premises. These new locations may operate under the Baldwins name or as independently owned entities within the Baldwins franchise network.
Enhanced Customer Experience with Online Platform
Baldwins Travel is developing a bookable website to enable customers to book services outside traditional shop opening hours. This move aims to attract clients from outside Baldwins Travel’s primary geographical areas.
Marks clarifies that this online platform is intended to complement, not compete with, existing physical branches: “This is just an added service,” he states.
Ward further explains, “Even if [clients] do book online, they’ll still have that Baldwins touch… and that contact by our retail team.” She assures that no matter the booking method, the quality service that Baldwins is known for will remain consistent.
Future Growth and Legacy
Continuing with its growth trajectory, Baldwins Travel is looking to expand its retail network by acquiring shops from owners who are retiring. Marks believes that taking over existing shops will help build on their legacy and sustain their operations.
“We can build on the legacy of these guys,” Marks explains, emphasizing the importance of continuing the work of previous owners rather than letting their businesses fade.
The newly acquired Westerham premises are set to be modernised and reopened within the next month, demonstrating Baldwins Travel’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing acquired businesses. Marks commented on the importance of taking care of customers and sustaining the business’s ethos of customer care and quality service.
The launch of The Travel Specialist franchise marks a significant milestone in Baldwins Travel’s ongoing expansion and innovation efforts. By offering support and opportunities to new and experienced agents alike, the company strengthens its position in the travel industry.
With a strategic focus on combining traditional and modern service delivery methods, Baldwins Travel is well-positioned to continue its legacy of quality and reliability.
