Katie Price has shut down her latest business venture, a travel agency, just weeks after its launch, following criticism from travel industry executives. The former glamour model, 47, had opened the business alongside a new Instagram page, but has now closed it after facing a fierce backlash.
The venture was promoted in an advertisement featuring Katie and fellow television personality Danielle Lloyd, encouraging people to join the agency InteleTravel under the brand Travel Smarter Group. The post read: "Join Katie Price and Danielle Lloyd. Hear how you can earn money from travel around your other commitments. Work flexibly. Travel more. Earn extra income."
The campaign drew sharp criticism from Lisa Henning, chief executive of Inspire Europe, who said the advert felt like "a huge mockery of our industry." She wrote on social media that she had worked non-stop for 12 days supporting clients through disruption in Dubai and other destinations, and had seen agents go above and beyond to get people home safely. "This isn't a side hustle. This isn't a gimmick. And it certainly isn't 'easy money while you travel'," she added.
In response, Katie's personal assistant said the former model was "simply sharing this platform with others" and "never stated that she personally books travel." The PA added that all agents within the community receive full training and are committed to supporting their clients, and that many join the business to build better financial opportunities for themselves and their families.
Francesca Barone, owner of Elite Cruises, also weighed in, saying she had "nothing against either of these women per-se," but that "pop up TAs shouldn't be taken seriously."
