Polka Dot Travel has re-opened 14 of its 19 branches today, with new safety measures in place, as agents expect a boost in holiday bookings in the coming weeks and months
The branches which reopened today are Oswestry, Shrewsbury, Wrexham, Nantwich, Llandudno, Market Drayton, Rhyl, Newcastle under Lyme, Longton, Hanley, Cannock, Leek, Lichfield, Stafford.
More than 20 staff members continued to work from home while the branches were closed and they successfully managed to move all sales functions for 2021 bookings to its online channels.
During lockdown, staff have added value to 60% of the cancelled 2020 bookings to new bookings for 2021, with a longer stay or a better-rated hotel for clients. Those who opted for a refund have re-booked their trips. Reopening the stores is an important part of rebuilding consumer confidence, as many customers were less likely to book holidays with reduced agent advice.
Mark Johnson, director at Polka Dot Travel, said: ?Before coronavirus, there were many travellers, belonging to a certain demographic, who would book a trip over social media or over the phone, with little input from an agent; because we have become so accustomed to purchasing trips online. However, we anticipate that travellers will want an increased level of support and reassurance now, as we slowly return to normal. This means customer service, particularly face-to-face, which instils confidence in our customers. The problems caused to travel arrangements by Covid-19, has reminded consumers of the benefits of booking through an agent.?
?Therefore, we think the sooner our stores open, the better. We have all the required safety measures in place for staff and customers, and hope that with the list of quarantine-free destinations in place, the industry will start getting back to how we knew it,? Mr Johnson added.
For more information visit www.polkadottravel.co.uk
