Thomas Cook News
Thomas Cook overhauls digital structure
Thomas Cook has revealed announces a number of changes to its structure, including the creation of a single marketing and digital function. The new department will combine the existing digital team with group marketing. The new combined marketing and digital function will allow Thomas Cook to further develop its use of digital and social media to market its holidays and better target potential and existing customers throughout the year.
Terror attacks hit revenues at Thomas Cook
Travel agent Thomas Cook has reported third quarter revenue fell eight per cent, to £1.8 billion, as terror attacks across Europe hit sales. At the same time, underlying profit shrank from £30 million last year to £2 million. Pre-tax losses grew from £44 million in the third quarter of last year to £64 million.
Thomas Cook Airlines launches direct Boston flights
Thomas Cook Airlines’ inaugural flight to Boston took off earlier, marking its latest milestone as the biggest long haul carrier from Manchester. The Boston Weekender programme, which runs twice a week throughout June to the middle of September, will take culture vultures and explorers to one of the US’s most historic cities, with a flight schedule that makes long weekends available like never before.
Thomas Cook launches augmented reality app for Sentido hotels
Thomas Cook has launched a new augmented reality app that brings its Sentido hotel collection to life for customers. Complementing Thomas Cook’s summer 2017 brochures, the app provides holidaymakers with an enhanced digital research tool to experience 20 of its own brand hotels through interactive tours.
Thomas Cook cancels summer departures to Sharm el Sheikh
Thomas Cook has cancelled all departures to the Egyptian resort of Sharm el Sheikh until at least October 31st. The tour operator had previously said the security situation in the Red Sea resort would see all holidays cancelled or postponed until May 25th. However, with no change to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office advice with regards to travel to Sharm el Sheikh airport, Thomas Cook took the decision to extend the black out.
Thomas Cook appoints new digital sales leader
Thomas Cook Group has announced the appointment of Gilles Despas in the role of chief digital officer. Gilles will join the business in February 2016, and will also sit on the company’s group executive committee. In his new role, Gilles will take responsibility for digital sales performance across the group and lead on the strategy for all future digital development and delivery.
Thomas Cook pulls out of Tunisia until October at earliest
Citing concerns from the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Thomas Cook has confirmed it will cancel all departures to Tunisia until at least October. There has been no change to the FCO advice with regards to travel to Tunisia since late last year, which remains against all but essential travel to the country.
Mottershead appointed to lead Thomas Cook in UK
Chris Mottershead has been named as the new managing director of Thomas Cook UK & Ireland. Currently commercial director, he will assume his new position from October 1st. He replaces Salman Syed, who has decided to pursue external opportunities and will be leaving Thomas Cook on October 31st, following a handover period.
New leadership for Thomas Cook in UK & Ireland
Thomas Cook UK & Ireland has confirmed Phil Gardner has joined the company as its new head of merchandising. Reporting directly to commercial director Chris Mottershead, his role will focus on bridging the commercial functions of product, yield, retail and online, driving greater collaboration and enhanced commercial decision-making across the business.
Thomas Cook India acquires Kuoni units
Thomas Cook India has signed a definitive agreement with Kuoni Group to acquire Kuoni’s Travel businesses across India and Hong Kong for £80 million. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals as required.
Thomas Cook sees losses narrow as revenue increases
Thomas Cook has reported strong financial figures for the first half of financial 2015, with the travel agent revealing group revenue increased by £37 million to £2,742 million for the period. Gross margins were maintained at 21.3 per cent, as improved yield management and cost efficiencies compensated for continued competitive pressures. However, underlying EBIT improved by £18 million to a £173 million loss, excluding a £5 million benefit from Easter falling earlier this year.
Club Med owner takes 5% stake in Thomas Cook
Fosun International has taken a 5% stake in Thomas Cook Group, strengthening its foray into the European tourism sector. The Chinese conglomerate acquired French holiday maker Club Med last month.