Trade bodies, such as Association of Atol Companies, have already been seeking “greater clarity” on the government’s proposals.
“Although package travel operators would still be free to offer a higher standard of protection, the burden may shift to the consumer to shop around effectively and find the suitable level of protection for them,” argued the CMA.
“This could weaken effective competition between firms due to higher consumer search costs, as well as potentially leading to poorer outcomes for some consumers, particularly those who choose a package due to convenience and value for money.”
Loophole risk
The CMA said that setting a cost threshold for the application of the PTRs could also “lead to complications around compliance”, as well as “a lack of clarity” for clients.
“The consultation proposes that this threshold could be determined by total cost, which could disincentivise operators offering trips to large groups, or by average cost, which could become difficult to calculate,” it added.
“This could lead to a lack of clarity for consumers around whether their trip is protected if an operator does not make this clear at booking. Operators could exploit loopholes in cost calculation to deny refunds to consumers.”
