Sam Smith Travel in South Wales is to open a second branch under the same brand and has taken on four homeworkers as part of a “sensible” expansion plan.
The new branch brings the portfolio to four agencies under the Ocky White Travel umbrella.
The existing Sam Smith Travel in Cowbridge is also undergoing a refurbishment, which has included new LED window lighting displays and a VIP lounge.
The new branch will be based in the nearby village of Pontyclun in former fashion boutique premises on the high street. It is due to be fitted out before opening under the Sam Smith name “imminently”.
More: Sam Smith Travel acquired by Ocky White Travel [Aug 21]
In addition, four ‘travel smart experts’ have been taken on. The self-employed homeworkers, trading under Sam Smith Travel’s Abta number, will generate their own sales leads and take overflow calls from the agency. Earnings will be based on 60% of commission on sales.
The expansion comes just over a year after the shop was bought by independent agency group Ocky White Travel shortly after Sam Smith Travel ceased trading as an Atol holder.
Sam Smith sales and commercial manager Suzanne Cumpston said the growth was planned and carefully thought through.
“The business plan always included expansion, but thoughtfully and sensibly,” she said.
“The business is doing well and there is now an opportunity to do this. We feel it is the right time.”
The agency is recruiting for a manager and part-time staff for its new branch in Pontyclun, which Cumpston described as a “thriving” community.
The company’s homeworkers have begun their training and there are already plans to take on more before the end of the year.
Cumpston said having homeworkers would enable the company to broaden its customer base to other parts of the UK, beyond its current shop locations.
But she did not rule out further branches on the high street.
“Never say never. If the right opportunity comes along we will look at it,” she said.
“Opening a second store under the Sam Smith name shows our commitment to bricks and mortar, but we are firmly fixed on an omni approach to growing our business.”
More: Sam Smith Travel acquired by Ocky White Travel [Aug 21]