Swords Travel has reported increased demand for tailor-made enquiries after opening a larger premises in Wimbledon Village.

The agency relocated from its previous store on Merton Road in Wimbledon Town in January, with the aim of creating a “luxury setting” for clients.

Co-owners Mark and Stuart Swords held two open days for suppliers in July to coincide with the store’s tennis-themed shop window in celebration of the Wimbledon Championships.

Speaking to Aspire, Mark Swords said: “The biggest change we've seen [since moving] is about the type of product [we sell], particularly within the tailor-made market. 

“We've definitely seen more tailor-made enquiries. We've done a lot of business with Audley Travel. There's been a big boost. It's quite nice for us because we're getting more interesting itineraries."

The agency also credited the increase to joining Global Travel Collection (GTC) last November. 

“The main reason [for joining] was that we wanted to have more freedom to package ourselves,” Swords said.

“We’ll definitely still be doing a lot through tour operators but it’s nice to have the opportunity, if we can’t get the prices that we need, [to] go through GTC.”

Swords said overall sales were up 40% year on year, with an increase of 53% in revenue for the same period. He said he had aspirations to “double” last year’s sales in 2024.

“What we are selling, we’re selling at a higher margin,” he added.

The new space in Wimbledon Village features a large shop floor area, separate team office, a large TV screen and surround sound speakers.

Swords said the setup allowed the team to raise brand awareness and showcase the agency’s offering more effectively. 

He added: “We want to create a space where people come in and feel relaxed. We have a 15-minute consultation when clients first come in and then we can present [an itinerary] to them on the big screen and really bring it to life before they travel.”

The agency is also utilising the space to host monthly destination-themed events 

with 10 to 15 clients, showcasing its product offering and the highlights of the destination. 

This year, Swords Travel will also reward its staff with its first ‘top performers’ trip to Singapore and Thailand.