08/03/2013

45 Jobs At Risk In Thomas Cook Closures

45 jobs are at risk in Northern Ireland after tourist agent Thomas Cook has announced eight of its 18 stores here will close.

Stores are being closed in Newtownbreda, Coleraine, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Antrim, Limavady, Strabane and The Quays Shopping Centre in Newry.

2,500 of its 15,500 staff are to be let go across the UK and Ireland.

The move comes as the company begins cutting down its administration department and focussing on internet trade.

Thomas Cook will close 195 stores in total, reducing the number of its retail outlets to 874.

Joanna Wild, managing director of the Thomas Cook Co-operative retail, said the move is part of a re-organisation.

"As a large retailer we regularly review our network to make sure we have the right stores in the right places for our customers and regrettably there are occasions where we need to close certain branches," she said.

"Following careful consideration, we have announced that eight stores are proposed to close in the Northern Ireland region and we are working with those colleagues who are affected.

"Our high street stores are a popular way for customers to book with us and are an essential part of our multi-channel approach alongside our websites and sales centres," she added.

(IT)

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