In a significant blow to holidaymakers, a popular travel agent has ceased trading and entered liquidation just three years after opening its doors.
Company Closure and Immediate Impact
New Era Travel, which first opened in 2022, has shut down completely. The company's office in Alresford, Hampshire, is now up for sale, and a sign posted on the door delivers the stark message: "all coach day trips are cancelled."
The brand was known for offering a variety of holiday options, frequently featuring coach tours departing from locations including Alresford, Fareham, and Wickham.
Official Statement and Customer Guidance
The company issued a full message to its customers, stating: "With deep regret, we must inform you that New Era Travel has ceased trading and is in the process of liquidation. We want to express our sincerest gratitude to every customer who has supported us over the years. It has been a privilege helping you plan your adventure."
However, there is a crucial piece of reassurance for many customers. The travel agent confirmed that all ABTA-protected travel bookings – such as package holidays, flights, and cruises – will proceed as planned.
Broader Context of Business Failures
This collapse follows the recent demise of Tomato Energy, which also ceased trading. Ofgem appointed British Gas as the Supplier of Last Resort for approximately 23,700 affected customers.
Chris O'Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica (parent company of British Gas), commented on the situation, highlighting that Tomato's failure marks the 31st supplier to collapse since 2021. He criticised Ofgem's inaction on financial resilience, stating it has left customers exposed and cost every UK household an estimated £100. He called for urgent reform to ensure supplier robustness and the protection of customer funds.
British Gas is now in the process of setting up accounts for former Tomato Energy customers and will contact them directly, advising that there is no need for customers to initiate contact themselves.
