A spokesperson for the operator said the figure equated to “around one person per store” across its 48-branch network and “some from our head office in Dorking”.
“This is the most challenging time the travel industry has ever seen, these are not decisions we take easily, but this is an extraordinary situation,” she added.
“We value our staff at Kuoni above all else, it’s what sets us apart, and all those affected are extremely talented people who are our friends and colleagues. Our aim continues to be to protect as many staff as we possibly can and as soon as we can to bring those talented individuals back into the business.
“The travel industry desperately needs the government to step in urgently with measures to protect all staff at this very difficult time.”
The news followed yesterday’s announcement that Kuoni parent Der Touristik UK had set out wide-ranging cost reduction measures to strengthen the business and its brands against the impact of the coronavirus crisis.
As part of the measures, chief executive Derek Jones will take a voluntary 30% pay cut, while staff were encouraged to “come together” and consider 20% pay reductions, unpaid leave and voluntary redundancies.
The company has also taken immediate steps to reduce costs, which include cutting marketing spend, cancelling outdoor events and negotiating lease agreements on its stores.
