Haywards Heath becomes Baldwins’ third store in Sussex, along with Lewes and Uckfield. The agency also has six shops in Kent in Tunbridge Wells, Cranbrook, Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Tenterden and Tonbridge.

However, managing director Nick Marks told TTG the agency plans to open shops “nationwide” in the future, expanding Baldwins’ footprint beyond Kent and Sussex.

"The exciting thing is expansion is always possible with us," said Marks. "We’re always looking to progress – if we feel that the time is right to do so.

“We’re looking nationwide rather than just in the south-east. It all comes down to what is right for the business, and where we can make a difference and immerse ourselves in the local community. 

“Any shop opening must not detract from the core of what Baldwins is.”

Marks added Baldwins’ owner, Inc & Co, wanted him to expand. “They are always looking to grow the business and take it forward,” Marks added. “We’re just another cog in their group, but the reality is they let me get on with it.”

The agency said Haywards Heath branch would offer "a tailored approach to travel” like Baldwins’ other shops, and take steps to introduce sustainable practices into its operations.

Asked when Baldwins first identified Haywards Heath as a possible site for a new shop, Marks said: “Before the pandemic, when the Marks family owned the business, we identified Haywards Heath as our next shop because it fit with our customer demographic. So it was one of the easier ones.” 

The shop’s oepning on Wednesday (27 September) was attended by several of Baldwins’ preferred suppliers, including APT, Cox & Kings, AmaWaterways, Classic Collection and Exoticca Travel.