Travel Zing marks a milestone with its new shop on Duke Street, bringing back in-person engagement.
The pandemic had pushed the agency to remote operations, but rising demand led to this revitalised presence.
Situated on Duke Street, the newly launched Travel Zing shop marks a significant return to in-person business for the Edinburgh travel agency. The celebratory event on May 28 welcomed a mix of existing and new customers, highlighting the business’s strong community ties.
After three years of remote operations, the decision to reopen was driven by a heightened demand for face-to-face interactions. Owner Laura Hibbert expressed delight at the return of personal engagement, noting how essential it is for customer relationships.
The journey to reopening on Duke Street presented numerous logistical challenges. Since the premises had been largely unused since the 1960s, they required substantial refurbishment to meet modern needs.
The successful transformation of the property was a major undertaking, only possible through diligent efforts by both the agency and its landlord. This extensive preparation ensured the premises were fit for welcoming clients once again.
The reopened Travel Zing shop has attracted a broad clientele, from eager school leavers to seasoned travellers. Hibbert noted the amazing diversity among visitors.
Post-COVID-19, consumer behaviours have shifted, with Travel Zing observing increased interest in both traditional sun holidays and more adventurous tours. Family-oriented and multi-generational trips have shown notable growth.
Hibbert shared insights into spending patterns, indicating that customers are willing to invest more in their travel experiences than before. Such patterns highlight a resurgence in the travel sector’s vitality.
The community’s loyalty has been instrumental in Travel Zing’s revival. According to Hibbert, existing clients have remained faithful, and the influx of new customers has further boosted business.
The shop’s open day saw a large turnout, including notable visitors like Glen Travel’s director, Alan Glen, underlining the agency’s importance in the local travel community. Such events reaffirm the supportive community culture that persists.
The return to a physical storefront underscores the enduring value of face-to-face engagements in the travel industry. Hibbert stresses that these interactions deepen client trust and satisfaction.
With 35 years of industry experience, Hibbert feels confident that in-person consultations will continue to be a preferred choice for many clients.
This preference reflects broader consumer trends valuing authentic, personal service experiences over digital interactions, especially in high-stakes decisions like travel planning.
As Travel Zing grows, the future promises continued adaptation to the evolving demands of travellers. Plans to expand service offerings are underway to cater to the diverse needs of their clientele.
The agency aims to balance traditional travel plans with new trends, ensuring comprehensive solutions for all travel purposes.
The focus on personal customer experience defines Travel Zing’s operations. Hibbert’s commitment to customer satisfaction is evident through the agency’s tailored services.
As a testament to its approach, the agency has seen positive feedback and an increase in repeat business, solidifying its reputation in the local market.
Travel Zing’s new shop not only revives personal connections but also strengthens community bonds.
The agency’s commitment to customer satisfaction ensures it will remain a trusted local business.
