Hotelplan said the move would allow it to channel its resources and expertise towards "the continued success" of its Inghams brand. A "small number" of permanent positions will be impacted by the move, said Hotelplan, while the number of overseas seasonal roles will reduce.
"In recent years, Esprit has faced an increasing number of operational challenges," said Hotelplan on Friday (9 February). "Conversely, Inghams has continued to thrive, thanks to its broad range of holiday options, wider choice of resorts and accommodation types, and high-quality service."
Joe Ponte, chief executive of Hotelplan UK, insisted the decision was unrelated to Hotelplan Group’s Swiss parent Migros’s recent decision to put the group up for sale.
"The UK business has been reviewing the performance of Esprit for some time, and this channelling of resources is part of our existing strategy and ongoing commitment to invest in the long-term future success of the other brands in the group."
All Esprit holidays booked for the current 2023/24 season will go ahead as planned, and the brand will continue to take new bookings for the remainder of the season. Customers looking to book for the 2024/25 season will find many of Esprit’s chalets and hotels available to book through Inghams, although this will be without Esprit’s childcare options.
John Mansell, Esprit and Inghams managing director, said: "It is incredibly hard to say goodbye to Esprit, but focusing our efforts so Inghams continues to thrive across its ski, Lapland and walking programmes is the right decision.
"Esprit has had a fantastic 41 years and we are so proud of all the families and children we have introduced to skiing. Esprit will always have a place in our hearts, and we would like to thank all our team for their hard work and passion over the years."
Hotelplan said as the majority of the Esprit team in the UK also already work across sister brands Inghams and Santa’s Lapland, their time and expertise would – once the season is complete – be fully redeployed to focus on these brands.
The number of overseas seasonal roles required will be reduced from next winter (2024/25) while a small number of permanent positions within Hotelplan teams responsible for delivery of Esprit’s services in-resort will be impacted. The group said affected employees have been notified, and would be consulted on the proposed changes.
