Thomas Cook / Co-op Retail Travel Merger

15 February 2011

Thomas Cook / Co-op Retail Travel Merger

Thomas Cook Group announces today that, in relation to the proposed merger of the travel retail businesses of Thomas Cook, the Co-operative Group and Midlands Co-operative in the UK, the Parties have made an application to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) to fast-track the anti-trust approval process and proceed directly to the Competition Commission (CC).

It is anticipated that the OFT will refer the case to the CC within the next three weeks and from thereon the CC will normally have up to six months to reach a decision.

Manny Fontenla-Novoa, Chief Executive, Thomas Cook Group plc commented:

"We continue to believe that there is compelling rationale for clearance, particularly when you consider previous decisions in our sector. We feel that proceeding straight to the Competition Commission should provide us with the right answer most quickly."

"Our view on the benefits of the transaction is unchanged and we remain fully committed to the merger. We will continue to work closely with the authorities to expedite clearance."

Enquiries:

Thomas Cook Group plc Investor Relations +44 (0) 20 7557 6414

Finsbury Faeth Birch +44 (0) 20 7251 3801

Notes:

1) The CC has a statutory period of 24 weeks for its investigation, which can be extended in certain circumstances.