UNUSUALLY aggressive peak-season price cuts and high
discounts are set to carry on this month as mass-market sales for Spain
continue to struggle.
Operators say margins are being hit even more this
year. Cosmos has repriced its Spain and villas product, and extended its ‘two
free kids’ offer from seven to 11 family units. It is now offering up to £300
per couple off peak season holidays.
Cosmos sales director Brian Young said: “We’re seeing
budget brands taking a fair chunk of the market while core summer sun
programmes suffer. There is more stock at cheaper prices than last year. We
don’t normally discount this much – it’s playing havoc with margins.”
Cosmos deals include seven nights at £184 per person
at the Calador Apartments in Majorca – £300 off.
TUI UK commercial director Derek Jones said: “Spain
has suffered in comparison because this time last year war was looming and
people booked familiar destinations.”
Thomas Cook director of trade relations Ian Derbyshire
added: “The market’s not as buoyant as we’d like. The western Med is still the
biggest seller but the number of people in the market is worrying.”