COOK APPOINTMENT
Thomas Cook Group chief executive John Donaldson has been appointed to the board of German operator Hapag-Touristik Union. HTU is owned by Thomas Cook’s German shareholder Preussag. From September, Preussag will own a 50.1% stake in Thomas Cook.
VIRGIN GROUND DEAL
Virgin Atlantic is replacing its nine-year deal with Heathrow ground handlers British Midland after signing a £12m contract with Plane Handling. The deal with British Midland ends on November 1. Plane Handling is a joint venture between Virgin and Gatwick Handling.
HOLIDAY AUTOS CASE
Holiday Autos has begun legal proceedings against Hire For Lower claiming breach of copyright over a series of press adverts. Holiday Autos claimed the adverts by Hire For Lower brand Autos Abroad used the same ideas, colours and layouts as its own campaign. Holiday Autos wants a reassurance the adverts will not be used again.
ARTAC 2000 MEETING
ARTAC Worldchoice has announced the dates of its 2000 conference. The event will be held at the Stakis Birmingham Metropole from April 14-16. The conference is expected to attract over 600 visitors compared with 495 at this year’s conference in Jersey.
NCL PLANS NEW SHIPS
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced plans to build two ships of a similar design to Norwegian Sky, which is due to be launched this August. The first vessel will be launched in June 2001 and the second in April 2002 launch. Both ships will have a capacity of 2,000 passengers.