Neilson For Sale?
Neilson For Sale?
Published : 13-Mar-2013 01:29
The UK's third largest ski travel operator Neilson is reported to be up for sale again, probably, as current owners Thomas Cook struggle to get on top of their debt burden, reported to be £1.6 billion.
Harriet Green, who became chief executive of Thomas Cook last summer, is reported to be considering selling Neilson as one option to reduce the debt, although so far this appears to be (on going) media speculation rather than an announced policy by the company.
Neilson is a key name in the ski industry, established nearly 40 years ago but having had multiple owners over that time in common with most other major ski travel businesses.
Some commentators report that selling Neilson would also weaken Thomas cook by reducing its income potential, but others say the company can make more money concentrating on winter sun destinations.
The two biggest tour operators are TUI, which own market leader Crystal as well as Thomson and smaller niche brands including Flexiski. Second place Inghams also operates Esprit Ski and Ski Total. Thomas Cook also own the Swiss Travel Service.
According to figures in the annual Ski Industry Report compiled by Crystal (http://mag.digitalpc.co.uk/fvx/crystal/sir2012/), Neilson's market share has been declining for several years and the company took 73,000 people on holiday last season, this is still well ahead of fourth placed Esprit (44,000) and represents around 8% of the UK market.
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