RIVALS DUMP AIRTOURS

RELATIONS between the UK’s largest tour operators have broken down in a spectacular bust-up over Airtours Holidays’ controversial advertising campaign.

Vertically integrated rivals have retaliated to the new 2003 net pricing promotions by clamping down on sales of MyTravel products through their retail networks. The reaction comes as speculation increases about a split among MyTravel’s senior management on the shift away from headline discounts.

Lunn Poly has refused to sell all MyTravel products, while Thomas Cook staff, angered by Airtours’ aggressive advertising campaign, are “voting with their feet” by switch-selling where possible.