In 2001 Jimmy Martin decided to open his own independent travel agency on Raeburn Place in Stockbridge. It was the 21st of November, just eight weeks after the attacks of September 11th and the outlook looked bleak for the travel industry. The internet was just coming into its own and to compete as an independent on any level meant going up against the well established discounting machines of the larger brands both in store and now online. It was going to be tough but Jimmy was determined to make a success of his new business.
Jimmy Martin pictured in 2001 …
A passion for travel, customer service and a strong work ethic was what he knew would get them through those challenging first few months into the New Year of 2002. His experience told him that people would want something to look forward to, they would be positive and want to show that their daily lives wouldn’t be affected, and whether this “life must go on attitude” or the spirit of sheer escapism, he felt sure a holiday would be top of their list. It was a gamble and the odds were against them but Jimmy Martin was proved correct with clients old and new coming back again and again for a service which the company still pride themselves on today.
The old shop front had stayed the same for 15 years …
Over the years the business has survived may things, the arrival of the internet, the ash cloud phenomenon, the 2008 financial crisis and many more up and downs and yet, they still survive in a cut throat industry … Why you may ask? Well, it is down to their unrivalled customer service and a team that understand just what people want from their local independent travel agent.
Work begins on Raeburn Place …
Today, in Stockbridge, the shop is very much part of the Raeburn Place street-scene and it looks like they’re here to stay, as can be seen by their 15th year anniversary refurbishment. Jimmy admitted that not much had changed at No.94 since they first opened their doors 15 years ago and that this was their way of showing their commitment to the Stockbridge community for their support for his business since day one.
New signage goes up …
The local independent travel agent has made a huge comeback in recent years due to peoples growing wariness of the internet, both in service and in choice, but most of all in value for money. Internet prices these days are more often the same as the High Street and not the 10% difference there used to be. Of course there will always be deals out there if you’re willing to put the time and effort in but are they the right deal for you ? Making a mistake online can be costly causing stress and anxiety, sometimes your only option is to email a faceless help desk and wait for a response. Jimmy Martin Travel understand this and their small dedicated team is always on hand to talk you through any questions you may have.
New interior fitted …
Recommendations by word of mouth have always been Jimmy Martin Travel’s best advertisement and has seen them stay at the top of their game for so long, and long may it continue …
Here’s to another 15 years …
facebook.com/JimmyMartinTravel
twitter.com/JimmyTravel
jimmymartintravel.com
Opening hours:
09:00 – 17:30 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri
09:00 – 16:00 Sat
94 Raeburn Place EH4 1HH
t. 343 1800
e. enquiry@jimmymartintravel.com
