England’s World Cup exit sparks holiday bookings rush

THE travel industry has experienced a much-needed sales boost following England’s exit from the World Cup.

Sales following Saturday evening’s penalty shootout defeat to Portugal have boomed, with the industry believing a lates rush could happen, as holidaymakers who have delayed taking a break to watch the World Cup rush out to book.

First Choice Retail managing director Cheryl Powell said customers were queuing to get into its hypermarkets on Sunday. “It has been amazing; now we can get business back to usual levels,” she said.

Lastminute.com travel director John Bevan said holiday sales rocketed after England’s defeat. Bookings for Sunday and Monday were up 35%, with the majority looking to get away over the next fortnight.

Superbreak sales director Ian Mounser said despite the heatwave in the UK – which under normal circumstances would lead to a bookings slowdown – sales have improved this week.

Libra Holidays sales and marketing director Paul Riches said he has seen a 10% bookings rise in the last week.

Thomson has seen a “single figure” bookings increase with traffic significantly up on the high street and Internet.

Even business in Scotland, where it is unlikely the public supported England, has improved this week.

Prestwick-based Stewart Travelowner Willie Stewart has seen footfall and phone enquiries increase 20%. However, Travelcare head of retail Karen Pocock said the expected rush had not materialised. “There has been a slight upturn but people aren’t exactly flooding in,” she said. And Bath Travel joint managing director Stephen Bath added: “I’d like to say we’ve seen a sales increase, but it’s been so hot people are not motivated to book.”