THOMSON has promised agents its niche operators will retain their independence as it embarks on a three-month review of its specialist division.
New specialist division managing director Andy Perrin insisted brands will not be diluted. His reassurance comes after Thomson announced plans to integrate the back-office functions of its specialist operators and work more as a group.
“I recognise it is an area of concern but I can assure agents that brands will retain their integrity and their free-thinking approach,” said Perrin. “I am totally supportive of maintaining independence. It is their strength.
“But the businesses have been split from pillar to post across the group for too long. I intend to provide the benefits that come with being part of a firm like Thomson.”
Perrin, former managing director at Crystal Holidays and Jetsave, plans to integrate the back-office functions of the specialist operators into six departments – finance, Information Technology, human resources, commercial, aviation and strategic and development.
He admitted the move could result in job losses and said a thorough review will be completed as quickly as possible.
“We realise it is unsettling for staff but we need to look in detail at each part of the business,” said Perrin. “We will look at their strengths and weaknesses and ensure each managing director has their say.”
Operators in Thomson’s specialist division include Magic Travel Group, whose MD Joanna Edmunds has resigned, Simply Travel, Austravel and Crystal.
Thomson specialist division