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TUI anticipates catch-up effect after political tension eases

Hanover/Berlin (ots)

TUI AG, the world's leading tourism group,
takes an optimistic view of the 2003 summer season despite the threat
of war in Iraq and the current hesitancy in bookings. At the start of
this year's International Tourism Exchange in Berlin, TUI AG chairman
Dr Michael Frenzel said: "This fair will send out positive signals.
Irrespective of any short-term difficulties, the tourism industry
should continue to look optimistically into the future. The holiday
industry is a growth industry over the medium and long-term." Dr.
Frenzel added that the fundament demand for holidays is unchanged,
and holidays are still a top priority for consumers.
Bookings throughout Europe are being influenced by the threat of a
renewed Gulf war and the poor economic situation overall. CEO Frenzel
said, "the obvious hesitancy in bookings in recent weeks is evidence
that the war is already in people's minds."
TUI group's overall customer figures for the current winter and
summer season mark a four per cent drop year-on-year. Booked turnover
for the winter and summer season is just over six per cent down in
total on the preceding year.
Turnover booked for winter is about one per cent, while turnover for
summer is presently some nine per cent below last year's result. The
figures show great variations throughout Europe. Whereas the markets
in Austria, France and Ireland are now higher than last year's levels
for the crucial summer season, the figures for Germany and Great
Britain are noticeably down on the previous year.
The demand back-log is due to the increasing trend towards late
booking apparent again this year, a factor exacerbated by the fear of
war. TUI anticipates a strong catch-up effect when the political
tensions eventually ease.
Frenzel: "We will use all leverage available to keep TUI moving
ahead on its successful course despite all political and economic
obstacles, and have not given up on 2003."
At the ITB, TUI is showcasing in Hall 25/Stand 1. On an area of
more than 2000 sqm. its new stand concept takes customers and
partners on a trip through the World of TUI. "Our stand brings to
life the various stages along the tourism value chain, from the
travel agent and the tour operator through to the airline and the
holiday hotel," enthused Dr. Frenzel.
TUI is starting the summer season 2003 on its German source market
with a battery of innovations. Potential holidaymakers can select
from no less than 30 catalogues and more than 6500 offers worldwide.
"TUI Stars" and "TUI Ambiente & Flair" are the two new target group
catalogues. TUI Stars presents absolute top-of-the-range national and
international holiday hotels. All 185 houses feature outstanding
special service ranges and infrastructures tailored to a discerning
clientele. TUI Ambiente & Flair reflects the growing demand for
holidays off the beaten tourism track. The 112 choices all boast
individuality and atmosphere, in a selection including holiday homes
with separate kitchen through to sleepy country hotels and fincas
with their own wine-cellar. The catalogue selection is rounded off
with bespoke programmes, such as mountain hiking from finca to finca
and Paradores-tours.
A special attraction of the 2003 summer holiday season is the
focus on families. In Germany, TUI has kicked off with a broad-based
campaign under the title "Parents' Treat". The main attraction
comprises super fixed-prices for kids, starting from Euro 99 for
popular holiday countries around the Mediterranean. In total, TUI has
put together more than 100,000 offers in this package. The super
fixed-prices for kids are the result of renegotiations with partners
in the destinations.
Please find this press-release on our homepage www.tui.com
ots Original Text Service: TUI AG
Internet: http://www.presseportal.de

Contact:

Nikolai Juchem, phone +49 (0)173 566 -1456
Mario Köpers, phone +49(0)172 567 -6909

Original content of: TUI AG, transmitted by news aktuell