‘FOR SALE’ HANGS OVER MYTRAVEL’S CRESTA

put one of its specialist businesses up for sale.

Industry speculation points to short-breaks operator Cresta, although the spokeswoman refused to reveal its identity.

She said talks were progressing with a number of interested third parties, and said the move was part of MyTravel’s strategic plans announced in November.

Possible buyers could include First Choice, ebookers and lastminute.com – all of whom have expressed an interest in Cresta.

In December First Choice chief executive Peter Long said Cresta was not “of strategic importance”, but admitted it would be interested if it, or Bridge, were up for sale.

Ever since MyTravel announced its profits warning, observers have been watching which parts of the business the operator would be looking to sell.

In December MyTravel sold coach operator Leger Holidays to a 3i-backed management buyout for £22.2 million.