HOTREC, the European umbrella association representing hotels, restaurants and cafés, takes note of the European Parliament’s IMCO Committee (Internal Market and Consumer Protection) report on the revision of the Package Travel Directive (PTD), adopted today.
We acknowledge the efforts of rapporteur MEP Saliba and MEP shadow rapporteurs involved in the negotiations, in addressing the complexities of the European travel and tourism market. However, several elements warrant further reflection to ensure a fair and workable outcome for all stakeholders.
The adopted report suggests leaving the limitation of prepayments to the discretion of Member States. We call for the complete deletion of any limitations on prepayments, in line with the Council’s general approach adopted in December 2024 and the TRAN Committee’s opinion report adopted on 14 April 2025. It risks increasing fragmentation within the Single Market and reducing both choice and value for consumers, especially budget-conscious travellers. Moreover, imposing restrictions on prepayments would severely impact hotel liquidity, particularly during the low season, and hinder advance payments to local suppliers and tourism partners.
While we support the removal of the 3-hour definition of a package, HOTREC remains concerned by the retention of the 24-hour provision. We recommend reverting to the original package definition laid out in Directive (EU) 2015/2302, in accordance with the Council’s position. The 24-hour threshold introduces legal uncertainty, blurs the lines between standalone and package bookings, and imposes complex administrative burdens, particularly for small and medium-sized hospitality businesses.
We also note that the scope of cancellation rights remains excessively broad. While consumer protection is vital, hotels acting as package organisers should not be solely liable for unforeseeable events. A clearer and more proportionate approach to cancellation rights is needed to ensure legal clarity and operational sustainability.
HOTREC remains committed to engaging constructively with the European Parliament, the Council, and other stakeholders to deliver a balanced revision of the Package Travel Directive – one that safeguards consumer rights while enabling the continued growth and competitiveness of the European hospitality sector.
