Fears royal wedding could hit travel biz

Monday, 22nd November 2010

Travel agents and tour companies in the UK are worried that British travellers could decide to delay holiday bookings after the wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton was announced. They fear some people will wait until more details of the royal wedding are known before making their holiday arrangements.

Britain’s travel industry is still suffering from the effects of a truly challenging 2010. Many travel firms saw a drop in holiday bookings while people followed England in the World Cup. Bookings were down until England went out of the competition.

The effects of the World Cup, strikes by BA cabin crew, the volcanic ash problems and the overall weak economy have left both travel companies and airlines reeling. The date of the wedding has yet to be revealed, leaving many hanging.

Representatives of the travel industry say the negative impact from the wedding would be worse if it took place in the summer, instead of spring. Sean Tipton, Association of British Travel Agents spokesman, said that typically, the industry would see people delay holiday bookings during major sporting events. The Association expects a similar effect, as people defer holiday bookings until the wedding has been held.

← Durham Tees Valley Airport cautioned about new charge
→ Cameron says high speed rail link is to go ahead
↑ November 2010 news index

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