Operator may still be sold, say administrators
Administrators have claimed they were in talks with several travel companies to sell the names of Travel Club of Upminster and Austria Travel, both of which ceased trading this week.
Conrad Beighton of Shipleys said Tony Freudmann, one of the directors of Alpha Construction, which owns both Travel Club and Austria, was continuing discussions with more than one interested buyer.
"The assets of the businesses are the goodwill, including the name, the customer database and the website," said Beighton. "I am hopeful of finding a buyer and discussions are continuing."
Travel Club is a well-known, independent brand. Set up by Harry Chandler more than 70 years ago, it was run as a family business until it was sold two years ago to Alpha Construction, a company set up by Tony Freudmann.
Travel Club and Austria Travel went into administration this week after admitting they were unable to pay accommodation providers. They sold hotel rooms, villas and self-catering apartments, primarily in Majorca, Portugal and Austria.
Beighton said he was unsure how much the companies owed and he could not say how many customers had been left out of pocket. As neither business had a bond, customers will have to file claims with the administrators, although those who paid by credit card may be able to claim refunds from their card issuer.
In total, the businesses employed 10 people. A skeleton staff has been retained to help with the administration, said Beighton.
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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