Independent agency chain fails

Independent Hampshire travel agency chain, Davis World Travel, has collapsed after 53 years of trading.

The company, which had leisure and corporate business and was a member of Advantage, had four shops and 20 staff.

Administrators Begbies Traynor said the company was a victim of several factors.

“Despite its long-standing pedigree, this company has been a victim of a sea change in the way we book holidays,” said Antony Fanshawe of the Southampton office of Begbies Traynor.

“Add to this the events of the last year, the recession, volcanic ash, airline strikes and the impending threat of increased air taxes and the result has been devastating for this business. The directors decided they had no option but to place it into liquidation.

“This is another business which has fallen prey to global events since the beginning of the recession. As well as the ramifications this liquidation has for holidaymakers, we have also to remember that 20 people have lost their livelihoods – it’s always sad to see job losses but it’s especially difficult at this time of year.”

The company had shops in Lee-on-Solent, Gosport, Fareham and Portchester and its corporate travel centre also in Fareham.

Formed in 1957, Hampshire-based Davis World Travel had a turnover of around £5-6 million generated through bookings for traditional package holidays as well as city breaks and cruises.

ABTA said: “If any principals dealt with this company on the CAPS payment system they should contact Advantage Travel Centres Ltd in the first instance.”

The company also traded under a small business ATOL 6041.

By Bev Fearis