Barrhead Travel has confirmed plans to invest £3.5million over five years in a new ‘experience store’ in Edinburgh.

The new venture will be the local company’s fifth in the Edinburgh area.

And the expansion is part of an ongoing drive to increase the firm’s footprint across the country.

More than a dozen jobs will be created at the new store, which will feature dedicated cruise and long-haul areas, as well as a foreign currency unit.

Barrhead Travel’s rapid growth bucks the travel industry trend, following the recent closures of other high street travel agents.

The company now has more than 70 sites across the UK.

Bill Munro, chairman of Barrhead Travel, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to announce the new store opening in Fort Kinnaird Retail Park.

“We know more and more customers are booking in store because they want the expertise of our specialists.

“Holidays are an emotional purchase and customers want to feel they are getting the best possible value for money, sound advice from genuine specialists and to know that their holidays are fully financially protected.”