TORONTO — TICO has issued a Closure Advisory for Tucan Travel Inc. o/a Tucan Travel.
As reported last week in Travelweek Daily, adventure travel specialist Tucan Travel announced on its website that it had ceased operations after more than 30 years in business. In Canada, Tucan Travel had a Toronto office for several years before closing shop here in in early 2020.
TICO’s advisory, issued earlier this week, notes that on Feb. 2, 2021 Tucan Travel voluntarily terminated its registration under the Ontario Travel Industry Act, 2002 to operate as an Ontario travel retailer and travel wholesaler.
The Closure Advisory is posted on TICO’s website along with more details about making claims against the Ontario travel industry’s Compensation Fund.
TICO told Travelweek that TICO is still awaiting access to Tucan’s booking records from the administrator in the UK. “We anticipate there may be claims against the Compensation Fund,” says TICO.
TICO added: “As for when they ceased operations, Tucan Travel Inc. may have ceased trading due to the pandemic early last year, but the company did not voluntarily terminate its registration to operate as a travel retailer / travel wholesaler until February 2, 2021.”
Along with last week’s announcement about the company’s closure, Tucan’s website included a message for travellers and the trade.
“The coronavirus pandemic has had a severe impact on many businesses in particular the travel industry. During this challenging time, tour operators like Tucan Travel have faithfully tried to support people and balance their needs,” said the company.
“No one could have predicted that in January 2021, most countries in the world would be in further tough lockdowns with many people losing their lives and loved ones. There is unlikely to be any normal international leisure travel until 2022 and so with a heavy heart, the decision was taken in the best interests of everyone concerned to place the company into administration. I would like to thank all clients, suppliers and staff for their support over the years and hope you get to enjoy travelling again in the future.”
