Major travel company cancels all bookings up to and including 26 July

27 June 2024 , 07:01

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UK holidaymakers could have their plans disrupted as a major holiday provider which supplies travel agents cancelled all bookings for July (Image: Getty Images)

Major travel firm Youtravel, owned by German company FTI Group, declared that they've had to cancel all bookings until and including 26th July due to ongoing talks about securing the company's future. This decision comes after its sister company, FTI Touristik - one of Europe's largest vacation companies - filed for bankruptcy earlier in the month.

The cancellation may potentially affect thousands of holiday-goers and cause a great deal of chaos as numerous UK-based travel agencies rely on services provided by the group. The company confirmed that it would automatically cancel all active reservations for arrivals up until 26th July at no extra cost by 1st July.

This sudden news leaves travel agents who packaged UK travellers' accommodations via Youtravel with only a few days to respond. The company admitted the impact of these circumstances on their business and operations was "significant". However, in an expression of gratitude, they stated: "We want to express our gratitude to all our partners for their unwavering support and patience since the announcement on the 3rd June 2024.

"The insolvency of FTI Touristik GmbH has had a significant impact on Youtravel.com. Over the past three weeks, our management has been actively engaging with the appointed administrator of the FTI group and undergoing the MandA [mergers and acquisition] process to secure our future," reports the Express.

"Whilst we are hopeful for a positive conclusion to these talks soon, we have made the difficult decision to cancel all bookings until and including the 26th July 2024. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and sincerely apologise for any disruption. Any active bookings in the Youtravel system for arrivals up to and including 26 July will be automatically cancelled without any charges by Monday 1 July."

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Bookings from 27 July remain active and will be subject to the usual cancellation charges. "Our teams are fully operational, and our dedicated task force is here to provide support to our partners during this challenging period," added Youtravel.

It added: "Our teams are fully operational, and our dedicated taskforce is here to provide support to our partners during this challenging period. Alternatively, you can contact your account manager for any queries or concerns.

"We will continue to keep you updated as soon as we have any further news regarding the future of Youtravel.com. We want to express our gratitude to all our partners for their unwavering support and patience since the [FTI] announcement on the 3 June."

Ben Hurst