Cosmos’ sales take tumble in new year

COSMOS has seen a downturn in sales through the multiples as it continues a controversial policy of publishing two identical brochures with wildly contrasting prices.

Its sales have deteriorated by 30% with all the majors, compared to last year with its post-Christmas performance only declining 15%.

Some observers believe the multiples have retaliated against the operator for sending one brochure to Travelcare with low prices and no discount and an identical brochure to other retailers with high prices but with discounts available.

One source said: “It is putting the industry in a bad light and further undermines the discount campaign, which the public doesn’t trust at the best of times.”

Cosmos sales and marketing director Paul Riches denied the multiples had deliberately switched away from Cosmos.

“In a flat market, which it is, the vertically integrated agencies will be under more pressure than ever to sell their own operator’s first.”