Operators battle to sell Spain

UNUSUALLY aggressive peak-season price cuts and high discounts are set to carry on this month as mass-market sales for Spain continue to struggle.

Operators say margins are being hit even more this year. Cosmos has repriced its Spain and villas product, and extended its ‘two free kids’ offer from seven to 11 family units. It is now offering up to £300 per couple off peak season holidays.

Cosmos sales director Brian Young said: “We’re seeing budget brands taking a fair chunk of the market while core summer sun programmes suffer. There is more stock at cheaper prices than last year. We don’t normally discount this much – it’s playing havoc with margins.”

Cosmos deals include seven nights at £184 per person at the Calador Apartments in Majorca – £300 off.

TUI UK commercial director Derek Jones said: “Spain has suffered in comparison because this time last year war was looming and people booked familiar destinations.”

Thomas Cook director of trade relations Ian Derbyshire added: “The market’s not as buoyant as we’d like. The western Med is still the biggest seller but the number of people in the market is worrying.”