Packages must be competitive: Comment by J.Skidmore
ABTA’s new tough-talking president John Harding is hammering home the message that people should buy package holidays to ensure they are fully bonded in the event of a collapse.
He’s even admitted he wants a no-frills airline to go bust to highlight the dangers of putting together your own package.
John’s got a point and many in the industry would sympathise. Why is it that only some companies have to go to the expense of bonding while others manage to get round the rule?
But whatever the merits of his argument, I reckon most people are only prepared to pay a small premium for financial security.
If there’s a big difference between the cost of a bonded package and a DIY-deal, many will prefer to take a chance, reasoning that the chances of any collapse affecting them are small.
How many people bother to pay the premium for a guarantee that their goods will be mended free of charge when they buy a television or a stereo?
Packages have their merits, but they must be competitive if they are going to entice the British public.
And if they are, then ABTA also has to trumpet the fact that you won’t be out of pocket when you buy a bonded package.
See yesterday’s story:
29-May-2003 ATOL rules changed for small operators
Read previous comments by Jeremy:
23-May-2003 Business agents so grateful for fees: Comment by J.Skidmore
16-May-2003 Bookings back – at a price: Comment by J.Skidmore
09-May-2003 War of words is healthy: Comment by Jeremy Skidmore
02-May-2003 Management must share the pain: Comment by Jeremy Skidmore
25-April-2003 Home workers no longer the poor relations
25-April-2003 Appointment of Tobias is welcome
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