An ‘In Safe Hands’ customer reassurance campaign is being introduced by Inghams Ski following a rise in winter holiday enquiries.
The specialist operator reported a “marked rise” in enquiries, with bookings up threefold, since the government announced plans a week ago to relax travel restrictions.
This follows the early closures of ski resorts due to the Covid-19 crisis at the end of the 2019-20 winter season.
The company is now offering those who have already booked and those starting to talk about booking, the support needed to travel with confidence again.
Measures include a Covid-19 refund promise, no amendment fees and a low deposit of £150, rising to £180 for Canada, to encourage bookings by the end of September.
The operator is also highlighting that it is part of a much bigger family of businesses. The parent company is Migros, a large Swiss supermarket and retailer.
Staff in resort will have Covid-specific hygiene training, along with safety equipment (PPE)and tabke service of food instead of buffets.
Après events for large groups will no longer be held and opening hours and numbers of guests in spa areas, hot tubs and swimming pools may be restricted.
Everyone, including Inghams staff, will be expected to wear masks when travelling on public transport to and from resort, in line with local regulations.
All accommodation communal areas will be disinfected several times a day, with deep cleans every transfer day and midweek room cleans.
Local staff will have temperature checks before every shift. Resort reps will manage everything from a central point, electronically and over the phone where possible.
Chief executive Paul Carter said: “As more and more people begin to plan their winter holidays, despite the many uncertainties regarding Covid-19, we would like our trade partners to take comfort in the fact that we’re doing all we can to ensure their customers can safely pursue their passions again.
“Throughout the Covid-19 crisis, we have strived to do the right thing, and be open about our efforts.
“We have already seen a great number of agents transferring their customers to next year and many new bookings for 2021.
“For this reason we feel it is important to share our plans and promises for the up and coming winter ski season, so our partners can help their customers can plan with confidence and know what to expect.”