DRV warns: Package travel reform endangers German travel agencies!

DRV warns: Package travel reform endangers German travel agencies!

At the beginning of September, the European Parliament adopted its position on the revision of the Package Travel Directive, which could have significant consequences for the travel industry. The German Travel Association (DRV) sharply criticizes the planned changes and warns of economic risks that could particularly burden small and medium-sized companies (SMEs). DRV President Norbert Fiebig says that these reforms will be particularly problematic for medium-sized travel agencies and tour operators in Germany and Austria.

Fiebig emphasizes that the threatened regulations could lead to over-regulation, which would distort competition. Although the main focus of the new directive on a high level of consumer protection is generally welcomed, the DRV fears that the burdens caused by the new regulations are unsustainable. The redefinition of the package tour will also lead to liability risks for travel agencies, which will affect the flexibility of the offers.

Warnings about undesirable developments and liability risks

The DRV rejects the planned introduction of a 28-day cancellation period for exceptional circumstances as it is viewed as a one-sided transfer of risk to providers. Fiebig emphasizes that these regulations would not only cost money, but could also endanger existing competitive conditions. The need for corrections in the trilogue procedure is therefore viewed as urgent.

Another point of criticism is that the redefinition of package holidays could make it more difficult to create tailor-made offers. Travel agencies could have to bear immediate operator liability, which could lead to a variety of legal uncertainties and bureaucratic hurdles. In this context, the DRV supports the EU Council of Ministers' proposal to maintain the distinction between package tours and individual services in order to protect companies operating in the market.

Keep the economic reality in mind

The DRV appeals to the federal government to represent Germany's interests in the trilogue process. Fiebig points out that 41% of all EU package holidays are sold in Germany and 30% of all holiday trips are package holidays, with over 98% of German tour operators being SMEs. Overregulation could therefore endanger the core of the German travel industry.

Finally, the DRV calls for a balance between consumer protection and economic viability in order not to endanger the package tour model. This is the only way to adequately take into account the interests of all those involved – consumers and providers alike. The coming negotiations will be crucial in shaping the future of the travel industry.

For more information, see reporting by tip online and association office.