TravelMole
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Terrorism impact minimal, says lastminute.com

Monday, 26 September 20053 min read

The impact of terrorism on consumer behaviour is diminishing and people are refusing to be put off going on holiday, according to lastminute.com.

Chief executive Brent Hoberman said the London bombings of July 7, and the failed attacks of July 21, only affected bookings to the capital for a short period.

“We’re all getting used to these disruptions and they are having a less damaging effect on consumer behaviour,” he said.

“Of course, London did suffer after the attacks, but the business is quickly coming back. There are lots of government initiatives to attract people to the capital, but the government probably feels they are not necessary.”

Hoberman admitted that the rising cost of jet fuel was an issue and he was relieved that his business was spread around different sectors.

“The air element is only 10% of our profit, maximum, and we’re thrilled by that,” he said.

Lastminute.com claims 1.7 million unique site visitors each week and Monday is the busiest day, attracting around 18% of all visitors.