Travelcare looks to direct sell
Travelcare has bought Altrincham-based Magic Breaks.
Travelcare, a Co-operative Group-owned travel retailer, says the acquisition is part of its strategy to increase direct sell holiday business to nearly half of its total sales. It will keep the Magic Breaks name and its 30 staff will not lose their jobs.
Magic Breaks was formed in 1991 by Keith Thompson and includes brands such as Travel With Imagination. Its 30 staff include call centre staff, who will be transferred to Travelcare, including Mr Thompson, who takes the role of head of product.
Magic Breaks will add £20 million to Travelcare’s annual sales total of around £500 million.
Other direct sell acqusitions made by Travelcare in the last 18 months are flights and accommodation provider Medinland, and flight suppliers Cheapestflights and Just Flights.
Commenting on the acquisition, Travelcare general manager, Amanda Williams said: “This is a well-run company with excellent staff, good customer loyalty and strengths which will enhance our own, particularly in the area of media partnerships, where we are now a major UK player.”
Report by Ginny McGrath
Ginny McGrath
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