Is ex-Crystal International Travel Group boss Peter
Dyer making plans to start up a new online tour operator?
Since
selling CITG to Thomson Travel almost two years ago,
Dyer has been considering his options. A brief spell
in charge of Thomson Breakaway ended with retirement
and a period of gardening leave, due to finish shortly.
During
the last year, Dyer has kept close contact with many
of his previous colleagues and speculation is rife
that some have been approached to join a new start
up.
After
the successful sale of CITG for £66m only ten
months after a management buyout worth £20m,
there would be no problem raising capital. Barclays
Private Capital, who have connections with other online
ventures including Iglu, are likely backers.
Breaking into the online market with a new brand would
be a difficult task, but as a senior industry figure
explained to Natives today, 'Operators would definitely
not relish being in competition with him.'
