In a message to new and prospective Hays employees following the independent agency chain’s acquisition on Wednesday (9 October) of all 555 Thomas Cook retail stores, the duo said Hays would “do their utmost to build on all that was good about the much-loved Thomas Cook brand”.

Hays has already recruited more than 400 former Cook employees, and stressed there will be ample opportunity for more ex-Cook staff to join Hays.

“We are delighted Hays Travel has been successful acquiring all of the Thomas Cook shops in the UK meaning we can now offer opportunities to more people,” said John and Irene.

“We have already recruited more than 400 talented former Thomas Cook employees and we are ready to welcome many more of the retail staff.

“This news means we can begin to reopen Thomas Cook stores, in their new Hays livery, from today [Wednesday 9 October]. We aim to open as many as we logistically can as soon as possible.”

They paid tribute to Hays colleagues who have “worked their socks off” over the last two weeks to make the Cook acquisition happen and ensure hundreds of jobs are safeguarded.

“We know how devastating it must have been – many of you have shared your experiences with us and it has been an emotional time for all of us,” they said.

“In coming to Hays Travel, you can be assured we will be doing our utmost to build upon all that was good about the much-loved Thomas Cook brand. And we will share with you our own strong values and belief in our people as we work together to ensure a smooth transition for the whole of the business.”