Organizational Policy Implementation to Address Covid-19 Impacts: A Comparative Case Study on Thomas Cook Travels and Akbar Travels

Abstract

Purpose: The pandemic made huge negative impacts on the travel business globally. Massive shakes in different parts of the travel industry led to the shutdown of different travel companies during the outbreak of Covid-19. This research identifies two prominent travel agencies for a detailed study.  Thomas Cook Travels is the oldest travel firm, it underwent complete bankruptcy and was undertaken by forex holidays in 2012. Akbar Travels is another leading travel company operating in different countries. This study focuses on assessing the customer/tourist and employee policies made by Thomas Cook Travels and Akbar Travels. NOISE analysis is a strategic planning tool to identify the strengths and needs of the current state of business and it gives light on the Improvements, Opportunities, and Expectations. The study emphasizes the current strength, needs, opportunities, and improvements.

Design: This research adopted the case study method by using a descriptive research design. Secondary data has been collected and analyzed to find out the factors affecting the tourism industry after Covid -19. NOISE analysis was conducted to explore the travel business of Akbar Travels and Thomas cook travels and also to identify the features and excellence of each travel firm and the expected improvements for the smooth run of the business.

Findings: The study constitutes that Thomas Cook Travels is running on a strategy and focused on business research on a yearly basis analysis. Yearly annual reports which are published and have public access, are suggesting the best possible areas of development and recommended the removal of low-profit products and services. Travel products from Thomas Cook Travels designed with the changes in commercial environments made them suitable for the business. Competitive forex services were very well helpful for travelers during the time of the pandemic. Multiple sources of income helped Travels to survive in the time of covid. Comprehensive regaining of business after the pandemic made their position the second-best travel firm in India.

Originality value: This study includes a detailed analysis of the travel and tourism business and its operational excellence in the post-Covid scenario with special reference to Akbar Travels and Thomas Cook Travels. It also compares the functioning of Thomas Cook’s and Akbar’s travels.

Paper type: A case study