Book Description
In this report the Competition Commission (CC) formally clears the anticipated travel business joint venture between Thomas Cook, the Co-operative Group (Co-op) and the Midlands Co-operative Society (Midlands). This confirms the provisional findings, that the acquisition will not result in a substantial lessening of competition in any markets in the UK, in particular for customers buying package holidays from high street travel agents. Therefore, customers are unlikely to suffer from significantly higher prices or reduced choice as a result of the joint venture. The joint venture would bring together two of the three largest travel agents on the UK high street. Thomas Cook currently has 780 stores, Co-op 360 and Midlands 100. Thomas Cook will continue to conduct its tour operator business separately from the joint venture.