Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon is optimistic that the move by Hays Travel to buyout all 550 Thomas Cook shops will lead to saving the two Thomas Cook shops in the constituency.
Jim McMahon MP said, “I am hopeful that this move will ensure that the jobs at the two Thomas Cook shops in Oldham West and Royton will be saved, and the hardworking staff are rewarded for their years of service.
“Hopefully all 550 of the former Thomas Cook shops can reopen after they are acquired by Hays, and there are no more job losses. I understand it’s difficult for Hays Travel to promise to open all shops within days, but the fact they plan on taking on all former Thomas Cook retail staff is finally some good news coming out of this sorry saga.”
“The fact that Hay’s see this as a viable business opportunity does raise further questions as to how the company was allowed to go under in the first place. Our high streets need a boost so the news that these shops may now reopen across the country is welcome news for our town centres.”
Jim McMahon OBE MP 
With regards to Hays Travel buying all Thomas Cook shops I see this as an opportunity for them to either open all the shops as Travel Agencies or, if this plan is not viable then to let some shops as training opportunities for local councils to join with colleges to give students experience in shop work.
As Hays own he shops they may be allowed some (or all) tax exemption by the council in return for using the facility and could remain so until Hays grow their business.
James Holdaway
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