The 4,000 sq ft shop is split across two levels, with an “experience-led” retail space on the ground floor and the first floor being a hub for its specialist sales divisions, including cruise, long-haul and Canada departments.
An events space, training room and private appointment area for clients wanting in-depth consultations are among other features.mThe new location will also be trialled as the first paperless store for Barrhead Travel, in line with its sustainability commitments.
More than 35 travel specialists, all with differing areas of expertise, will be based in the new premises, with the group expecting to add further positions this year, including apprenticeships.
The store has opened following a record-breaking start to the year for sales, with Barrhead reporting bookings remaining higher than pre-pandemic levels.
The shop was officially opened by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce chief executive Stuart Patrick, with more than 100 attendees, including Barrhead Travel senior management and colleagues, clients, suppliers and MSPs Annie Wells and Kaukab Stewart.
The opening follows Barrhead’s recent £1 million headquarters relocation to nearby Libertas House on St Vincent Place.
Barrhead Travel president Jacqueline Dobson said: “With travel demand exceeding 2019 levels, we’re pleased to be making significant investments in our team and retail locations. As more people return to travel agencies, we’re ensuring our spaces are innovative, modern and accessible to all.
“Our new flagship store marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Barrhead Travel as the industry embraces continued demand for responsible travel. The new space gives us the flexibility to offer a people-first, Book Human approach, that’s designed to offer clients the personalised support they need to secure the holiday of their dreams.
“Although we are now a UK-wide business, Glasgow is our home and we’re delighted to continue to invest in the city with offices and retail premises that will play an important role in skills development and job creation.”
The new store is at 31-33 Gordon Street and open seven days per week until late.
