Much-loved high street travel agent forced to close popular high street branch within DAYS
A MUCH-loved high street travel agent has been forced to close its doors within days.
Ascot Travel House will shut its only branch permanently at the end of the month.
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Loyal customers have shared their sadness over the closure through poignant posts on social media
Credit: Google Maps
The closure was confirmed by a shock statement released on the travel agency's website.
It read: "Our parent company, NAR UK Ltd, has decided that our retail shop will be closing at the end of May.
"Sadly, despite best efforts to maintain a retail shop it has proved very difficult to regain the levels of business we had prior to Covid.
"Our parent company will remain trading and will continue with being bonded and protected by ABTA and ATOL.
"Should you choose to complete a booking with us before the end of May then it will be managed by our team until completion.
"We will still be accessible by both phone and email."
Loyal customers have shared their sadness over the closure through poignant posts on social media.
One person said on Facebook: "So sorry to hear this, wishing you all the best."
Another said: "Well done for staying independent and providing a professional service gained from decades of experience.
"A real shame."
How to safeguard your holiday: A guide to ATOL protection and vetting travel companies
A third added: "So much love."
Ascot Travel House's closure reflects a nationwide trend, as the number of UK travel agencies has dropped by nearly 18% in the past five years.
According to Statista, there were over 4,200 travel agency shops in March 2019, but that number fell to just 3,500 by June 2023.
The struggles of UK travel firms were further highlighted recently when Jetline Holidays, a major UK-based travel agency, went bust, leaving nearly 5,000 British holidaymakers stranded.
Many of those affected had booked cruise holidays with Princess Cruises, Cunard, and Holland America, which were cancelled due to a "breach of contract."
Some travellers were forced to pay again for their holidays or risk having their trips cancelled altogether.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) issued warnings to affected customers, advising them to check their flight e-tickets, as only some packages remained valid.
However, those who booked only cruises or accommodation without flights found themselves without ATOL protection, meaning they may not get their money back.
Last year, German-based tour operator FTI, which was linked to UK travel agents such as loveholidays, also went bust.
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