AN independent travel agents is opening a new retail branch in Northwich.

Next month, Barrhead Travel will finally be welcoming customers into its new store at Barons Quay after delays caused by Covid.

The travel agents, headquarted in Glasgow, had confirmed its expansion prior to the pandemic but plans for the store were put on ice as the country went into lockdown.

The Northwich team continued to operate from home, helping the community with rearranging holiday plans, but they are now looking forward to opening the doors of their state-of-the art branch on April 2.

Local manager Sean Buckley, who heads up the team with more than 130 years' experience, said: "Nothing beats face-to-face service and I can’t wait to welcome customers into our new store.

"We’re bringing a fresh approach to booking holidays with a team whose expertise is, I believe, unrivalled elsewhere.

"It is a pleasure to be able to bring dream holidays to life for our clients, especially after the last two years.

"Community spirit is strong in Northwich and I’m excited to work with other local businesses and the shopping centre to help promote shopping local.

"We’re particularly excited about supporting our local chosen charity, The Joshua Tree, which is an organisation that’s very close to our hearts."

More than £400,000 has been invested in the 2,000 sq ft unit which will also house a dedicated training facility – Barrhead Travel's second in the country.

The space will serve as a regional training hub for its network of 20 English stores, complementing its flagship Training Academy in Glasgow.

Lina Higuita, centre manager at Barons Quay, said: "Barrhead Travel is another great addition to Barons Quay, bringing a wealth of travel expertise and brilliant customer service to Northwich.

"We’re delighted that their long-awaited opening is finally happening, so if you’re looking to make your travel dreams a reality, you know where to come." 

Barrhead Travel president, Jacqueline Dobson, said: "The opening of our Northwich store comes at a great time: travel restrictions across the world are continuing to ease and demand for holidays is soaring.

"Now, more than ever, people are returning to their local high street agent for advice from real people with real experience.

"Our Northwich team are passionate about providing the very best service to their community and they have already built a stellar reputation as trusted experts."