IN THE OFFICE
Next month marks the launch of the first-ever direct flight from Edinburgh to Dubai, offered by Emirates. Jessica Pook speaks to Jimmy Martin, owner of Edinburgh-based Jimmy Martin Travel, ahead of the new route and discusses the pros and cons of being an independent agency. t
Long haul launch
"It's a very exciting time for the
Jimmy Martin Travel team. As of October 1, 2018, we will be able to offer our clients direct flights to Dubai, which is the gateway to so many other destinations. We have already started seeing an increase in interest in holidays to Dubai as a direct result."
Taking on technology
"The onslaught of 'information' available on the internet will always be a challenge for agencies. We often have customers coming in with a price that seems too good to be true, and it's because they haven't accounted for luggage, tax, and other incrementals. The web can be confusing and even 'deceiving' for customers and can leave some feeling overwhelmed – which is why we’re seeing more and more revert back to their local travel agent.
"There’s also the added pressure to compete with online deals, but we’re in a prime position in Edinburgh and our clients know they gain more from coming into the store than trying to sift through numerous websites."
"As a small team, consisting of just five staff, we have the autonomy to do as we feel is correct.
"We book the deal that is right for our clients, not the option that will always net us the most commission. The product has to be right.
"We get to know our clients to find out exactly what they want from their holiday. It may take longer but it is the personal touch that makes all the difference. Most of the team have been here with us for over 10 years so there's a level of trust with both customers and operators and that's why we have such a good reputation."
"The words ‘experience’ and ‘touring’ keep popping up. Clients are definitely looking to do more experiential holidays and explore something different beyond 'flying and flopping'. To combine that element along with the relaxation of a holiday is something the web can’t do like an agent. We’re in contact with people on the ground and clients feel reassured that they are getting value for money."
There's a level of trust with both customers and
operators