Baldwins Travel has lost its IATA accreditation and left Advantage, which it joined more than 30 years ago.
In a statement, IATA said Baldwins’ accreditation was suspended on 28 April. It added: “The suspension may be lifted if the company fulfils the reinstatement requirements by 31 May 2025
Advantage Head of Business Development David Moon said Baldwins had opted not to continue its membership when it came up for renewal at the end of April.
Baldwins was expelled from ABTA in April after it lost an appeal against the termination of its membership.
Travel Gossip understands that at least two tour operators have put the 11-branch Kent-based agency chain on stop-sale, while some others are requesting direct payments from Baldwins customers.
David said: “It has been a challenging situation for (Baldwins’ director) Nick (Marks) and without an ABTA number it makes it very difficult to trade.
“It makes sense for Nick to concentrate on his business so he hasn’t renewed his Advantage membership, but we have supported him for quite some time and we would welcome him back if the circumstances are right for Baldwins.”
Nick is understood to be attending the Advantage conference in Malta this week, despite no longer being a member. “Baldwins was with us for over 30 years, we’ve known his father and his brother, we have a long history,” added David.
