TUI UK & Ireland has announced a significant increase in sales, as the recent heatwave appears to have encouraged more consumers to book their summer holidays. Greece and Spain are the top choices among tourists.
The travel operator reported that in recent days it has recorded an increase in bookings both for departures in June and for the school holiday period.
Sales for June are up by 20% compared to the same period last year, with the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands showing the strongest demand, with increases of 60% and 50% respectively.
Seven-night holidays remain the most popular choice among customers. However, four-night getaways recorded the strongest weekly growth, rising by 40% compared to the previous week.
The CEO of TUI UK & Ireland, Neil Swanson, said:
“Despite what some may believe, warm weather in our own country does not reduce demand for holidays. A period of good weather at home can actually inspire people to book holidays rather than deter them. It gives them a first taste of summer and often makes them want even more. And as weather forecasts show a drop in temperatures next week, this may encourage even more people to secure a sunny getaway abroad, with the joy of sunshine still fresh in their memory.
We continue to offer a large number of free child places throughout the summer, flexible holiday durations with departures from 22 regional airports, as well as excellent hotel and resort options.”
First Choice, TUI’s “sister” company, also recorded a significant increase in bookings for short breaks following the start of the heatwave.
Typically, First Choice customers prefer seven- or fourteen-night holidays. However, between May 22 and May 28, there was a sharp rise in four-night bookings, which accounted for nearly 10% of all reservations.
At the same time, two-thirds (66%) of bookings made during the same period were for travel departing within the next 14 to 30 days, with Greece and Spain emerging as the most popular destinations.
In addition, Marella Cruises, TUI’s UK cruise company, also recorded an increase in bookings during the heatwave, with cruises departing from Palma de Mallorca up 30% compared to the previous week.
