Backpackers travel agency STA Travel has announced that it has ceased trading with immediate effect due to the impact of the coronavirus crisis.
The news was confirmed in a statement on the agency's website, which put down its closure to the fact that the Covid-19 pandemic had "brought the travel industry to a standstill".
STA Travel Holding is based in Switzerland, but has 50 shops in the UK - including stores in Newcastle city centre and in Durham.
“The global impact of the coronavirus pandemic has brought the travel industry to a standstill,” the company's statement said.
“Over recent months, we have taken decisive measures to secure the business beyond Covid-19.
“However, sales have not picked up as anticipated due to consumer uncertainties, further restrictions and renewed lockdown measures, which are expected to largely continue into 2021.
“This week, it was announced that STA Travel’s Swiss parent company, STA Travel Holdings AG, had filed for insolvency. Today, as a result of that decision, and upon reviewing the UK business, we have been left with no choice but to cease trading with immediate effect.
“Over the coming days, we will be working through the process and how it might impact our operations.”
