Organisations & Operators News Page 3

WTTC warns over Brexit no-deal job losses
The UK government and the EU must agree a deal over Brexit to save and secure thousands of jobs, argues the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Alpine Elements ceases trading in London
Alpine Elements has ceased trading, with ATOL publishing advice on the next steps for passengers booked to travel. Around 1,000 trips were planned with the company, which is based in Wimbledon.

Discover Qatar launches new cruise offering
Discover Qatar has announced the launch of its very first expedition cruise series. It will offer guests an experience travelling in luxury and comfort around the destination’s coastline.

UNWTO report reveals further reduction in travel restrictions
According to the eighth edition of the UNWTO Travel Restrictions Report, 70 per cent of all global destinations have eased restrictions on travel introduced in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association declares climate emergency
The body has committed to developing a comprehensive climate plan within the next 12 months, including transparent goals, measurable reductions and yearly progress updates.

ABTA offers Brexit guidance on Tour Operator Margin Scheme
HMRC has confirmed that once the Brexit transition period ceases, the VAT charged on holidays through the Tour Operator Margin Scheme on travel outside of the UK will be zero rated.

TUI Group secures a further €1.8 billion in emergency funding
The deal includes the German Economic Support Fund, KfW Entwicklungsbank, commercial banks and the company’s largest single shareholder Unifirm.

Rodriguez takes up European leadership role for Singapore Tourism Board
The Singapore Tourism Board has appointed Michael Rodriguez to the role of area director for northern and western Europe. He will assume the role this month.

Lastminute.com to step up refunds following CMA probe
The company has agreed to repay more than £7 million owed to customers whose package holidays were cancelled due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.

Which? urges passengers to book direct with providers
Holidaymakers are usually better off avoiding booking sites when arranging a holiday and booking directly with a travel provider instead, according to Which?.

ABTA launches chargeback helpline to members
ABTA has launched two new member advice helplines. They will provide advice on how best to dispute a chargeback, or how to protect a business from data breaches.

Harris appointed chief marketing officer with On the Beach
Zoe Harris joins On the Beach from GoCo Group where she has been since 2018, initially holding the role of chief marketing officer for GoCompare.