Fast-growing Swindon specialist holiday firm Imagine Cruising is moving across the M4 to larger offices in Royal Wootton Bassett.
The firm, which has expanded rapidly since its launch four years ago, has taken over the first floor in sound engineer Dolby’s showpiece Portland House office on the Interface Business Park.
Emirates-owned Dnata Travel acquired 51% of Imagine in March in a deal that will trigger further growth at the firm, which specialises in bespoke rail and international cruise-and-stay holidays.
Imagine, previously based on Swindon’s Lydiard Fields Business Park, employs more than 70 people in the UK and a further 40-plus in South Africa. It works with major cruise operators such as Cunard and P&O Cruises, luxury rail operator Orient Express and international four and five-star hotels.
Dolby, which moved to Wootton Bassett in 1993, has restructured its business over recent years including ending manufacturing at Portland House six years ago with the loss of around 60 jobs. Further restructuring has resulted in the building’s 13,900 sq ft first floor becoming vacant.
Imagine Cruising managing director Robin Deller said: “We are delighted to be moving into Portland House. It has the space and facilities needed for our exciting expansion plans. We are also pleased to be staying in the local area, both for our staff and as supporters of the wider Swindon community.”
Jeremy Sutton, partner in the Swindon office of property firm Keningtons – which acted for Dolby – said: “The first floor in Portland House became available as a result of a company reorganisation. We were instructed to market the surplus space before the restructuring was completed and within a matter of weeks had agreed terms with Imagine Cruising who have now completed a new 10-year lease with a fifth-year tenant break.”
Dolby facilities manager Rob Cooknell added: “The reconfiguration of the space in Portland House has been a major project for us.
“With Jeremy identifying and agreeing terms with Imagine Cruising so quickly into the marketing campaign there were additional time pressures on the project but resulted in there being no void period in the building. We look forward to welcoming Imagine Cruising at Portland House.”
Pictured: Portland House
