The American-based escorted touring specialist, with its headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island, celebrated its 100th year in business in 2018. UK travel agents can continue to book up until April 30, 2020.
In June 2018, Collette said it was planning to increase its visibility to UK agents by expanding its UK sales team to four people. At the time, the company said around 90 per cent of sales were made through the Travel Trade.
A statement from Collette says: “In order to focus on its expanding operations in the US, Canada and Australia, Collette has decided to no longer have a physical presence in the UK marketplace beyond 30 April 2020.
“Collette continues to accept new reservations for travel up to 30 April 2020 which will operate with full Atol and Abta protection. Existing reservations will operate as booked.
“Agents and guests can continue to travel and book with confidence. For travel by UK guests beyond April 2020, Collette is evaluating offering their global product line in the UK on a wholesale basis.”
There had been four in the sales team: Lisa Rhodes, who looked after agents in the north of England, Tony Mahoney for Wales, Northern Ireland and the southwest, Simeon Douglas, for the Midlands, and head of UK sales Neil Sehmbhy. Head of partnerships in the UK, Stephen Mills, is also expected to leave the business.
