4 UK travel firms plunge into liquidation or cease trading – all bookings cancelled | UK | News
Four travel firms have ceased trading and canceled all bookings in 2026.
With jet fuel prices soaring in the wake of the Iran crisis and international travel facing uncertainty due to travel warnings, more companies could be pushed to breaking point.
When holiday businesses collapse, bookings are canceled and holidaymakers lose their trips and money unless their company is covered by ATOL protection.
In January Regen Central Ltd went into liquidation and canceled all trips without refunds.
The firm, which was founded in Hertfordshire in 2011 before moving to London, lost ATOL protection on January 13.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said Regen Central had no outstanding ATOL protected bookings and those sold as accommodation, non-flight or flight-only bookings were not protected by ATOL.
On 23 January, British bus operator Gold Crest Holidays ceased trading and ceased operating with immediate effect.
All future trips and packages have been cancelled. The family-owned West Yorkshire firm, which has been operating for 30 years, said rising costs were responsible for the decision to cease operations.
A statement on its website said: “After over 30 years of creating unforgettable holidays, we are deeply saddened to announce that Gold Crest Holidays has ceased trading with immediate effect and has taken steps to enter into voluntary liquidation.
“This difficult decision follows the severe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, strategic changes to key partner arrangements that have negatively impacted our business, and a challenging trading environment where costs have increased significantly.
“We are extremely grateful to our loyal customers, travel agents, suppliers and dedicated staff for your support over the years. We are truly sorry that we can no longer continue.
“All future departures have been cancelled. ABTA cover provides protection. Refunds and assistance will be issued by ABTA. Contact ABTA: Telephone: 0203 758 8730.”
The firm went into voluntary liquidation, according to documents lodged with Companies House in March.
Asiara UK, previously known as Haivenu Tours, launched in 2022 and offers packages in Asian destinations such as China, Thailand and India.
On 21 January the firm ceased trading. However, existing bookings were not affected as the Ipswich business had no future bookings at the time of closure, according to Protected Trust Services.
The firm was later dissolved through a voluntary strike on 23 January.
Simply Florida, based in Glasgow, Scotland, was a travel agency that organized cruises as well as trips to Disneyland Paris, DisneyWorld Florida, Universal Studios, New York, Niagara Falls and Toronto.
The firm applied for delisting from Companies House in October and officially ceased trading on January 20.
Holidaymakers who had booked trips could see them canceled but the firm was ATOL protected so a refund was due.
