Tui UK’s overseas resort staff will be forced to relocate to a different country every two years or resign as the operator enforces a ‘mobility clause’.
In a letter seen by Travel Weekly, the operator said it would implement the clause, which is already in staff contracts, by this winter. It said it aimed to create a more “mobile and flexible” workforce and comply with social security requirements.
Staff fear the move could damage customer service as they are forced to move every two years. Some Tui staff have up to 20 years’ experience in one resort.
The policy applies to 1,600 staff who work in Tui resorts in summer and about 1,200 who work during the winter. A few top‑performing staff will be given the choice of being placed on a local contract on local wage scales and without the same benefits.
Staff who do not want to change resorts and do not meet the criteria to go on to a local contract have been told they must resign or face disciplinary action.
One overseas employee accused the company of using “underhand, intimidating tactics”. She and other staff are taking legal advice as they believe the company could be guilty of constructive dismissal.
She said: “It is very sad that Tui is treating long‑term loyal staff in this way and showing that they have no regard for customer service.
“We hear so much about customer service in our industry but Tui is showing it isn’t really a priority.”
A Tui spokesman said: “We require a flexible and mobile workforce to best service the changing needs of our customers.
“We appreciate that for some employees this will represent a significant change in their circumstances.
“We have therefore communicated this process as early as possible and employees are encouraged to talk to their line manager to discuss their situation.”