Thomas Cook Waltzes Past the Red-Number Zone

Thomas Cook, Germany’s second largest tour operator, is estimating a 3 percent hike in sales by the end of this year, a situation that moves it back in the black after a tough period of time that marred its good going, said Thomas Cook’s President Wolfgang Beeser.

By 2005, the Cologne-based company hopes to further beef up its stance and start reaping profits for the first time in two years. In addition, Thomas Cook will implement numerous benefits for customers, including the unveiling of its own Internet portal.

According to Mr. Beeser, big-time tour operators have great chance of doing business with online hotel portals. Besides the more traditional booking of travel packages, netizens are now given the opportunity of customizing their own hotel stays in line with their wishes and affordability.