Hays Travel replaces vacant travel agency store in Newark just 59 days after Thomas Cook collapse
A travel agency has moved into the vacant Thomas Cook premises in Newark and the store manager said it is a massive boost for the town.
Just 59 days after the Thomas Cook collapse, which left a space on Stodman Street, independent travel agent Hays Travel has moved in.
And manager Rachel Pashley, who is leading the revival at the Newark store with former Thomas Cook employee Lyndsey Newton, believes its return is only a plus for the town centre.
“It is really important for Newark to have a shop like us here because Thomas Cook was a really good brand in Newark and there was a lot loyal customers,” said Rachel.
“We have a really good space and with how towns are at the minute, it is a really positive move for Hays to have taken on all of the 550 stores across the country.”
Rachel said there would be an improved service under Hays, with the addition of being able to travel with Jet2, one of East Midlands Airport biggest airlines.
Foreign exchange consultant, Lindsey, also benefited from the move, having been left without work after 14 years of service at Newark’s Thomas Cook branch.
“Personally, it gave me a sense of relief to be back because I have been doing this job since I was 16,” she said. “I have never pictured myself doing anything different and when I woke up (after being made redundant) I thought what am I going to do? This is all I know.”
The store is still undergoing changes, but is open to customers.
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