What's next for the package holiday industry after the collapse of Thomas Cook?
What's next for the package holiday industry after the collapse of Thomas Cook?
It's the time of year when we start thinking about booking our summer holiday.
But, after Thomas Cook collapsed into administration, will our summer holiday still cost the same? Is there still consumer confidence in the package holiday market?
We speak to some of the biggest names in the industry, including On The Beach, Virgin Holidays, and Polka Dot Travel.
We hear claims that nearly a third of UK travel agents and tour operators are at risk of going out of business over the next few years.
The Civil Aviation Authority tells us how the repatriation of Thomas Cook customers worked when the company went bust. We also hear how flying customers home and the compensation claims that followed, have depleted the ATOL fund that protects consumers who book a package.
But, independent travel agents are doing well and are expanding on to more high streets. We hear how the package holiday has evolved over the years to keep up with our more adventurous demands, and why we still like to book our holidays with the help of an expert.
Presenter: Samantha Fenwick
Producer: Lydia Thomas