CADOGAN Holidays could face expulsion from the Association of Independent Tour Operators after managing director Gary David publicly slated the organisation.
AITO chairman Paul Chandler said there were likely to be calls for Cadogan’s removal after David branded it indecisive and accused it of not tackling key issues.
The criticisms followed talks between David’s new organisation TIPTO – Truly Independent Professional Travel Organisation – the Campaign for Real Travel Agents and AITO.
“AITO rarely comes up with a conclusive answer on anything because its membership is so diverse,” said David.
“It also fears upsetting some members and consequently sits on the fence.
“TIPTO on the other hand will take a more aggressive and dynamic approach in tackling key issues.”
He added AITO spends too much time discussing irrelevant issues.
Chandler refuted the criticism and claimed AITO is a campaigning body representing the independent sector.
“Members will be spitting nails over this and I would imagine there will be calls for his resignation from the association,” he said.
CARTA chairman Chris Kirker added: “This will do nothing to help the cause of the independent.
“The multiples will be laughing at us.”
The row is likely to end any chance of TIPTO working with CARTA and AITO, although both David and Kirker said it remained a possibility.
Kirker said, however, CARTA’s long term aim was to work with all AITO members.