Norwich-based travel firm SkiYodl Ltd has entered voluntary liquidation after eight years in business, resulting in the cancellation of all its holiday packages. The company, which launched in March 2018, specialised in ski trips to several European destinations, offering self-catered chalets, apartments, hotels, ski hire, and airport transfers.
Focus on the French Alps
The mobile-led platform had a strong focus on the French Alps, featuring resorts such as Méribel, Tignes, Avoriaz, and Val Thorens. SkiYodl previously described itself as creating 'the largest online marketplace of hand-picked stays and experiences in the mountains.' On LinkedIn, the firm called itself a 'collective of ski industry professionals driven to create a customer-centric booking experience with skiing at its core.'
In 2024, the company was ranked 44th in the Startups 100 index, an annual ranking of the most innovative new businesses in the UK. The winding-up order was announced on July 22, though the reason has not been confirmed.
ABTA advice for customers
ABTA, the UK's largest travel association, said it currently does not believe there were 'any current customer bookings for package holidays at the time of liquidation.' However, it warned that any customers who think they may be affected should email claimsrequest@abta.co.uk with their booking details.
For accommodation-only bookings, which are not ABTA-protected, ABTA advised: 'Customers that paid by credit or debit card and had accommodation-only bookings will need to contact their card issuer for assistance with obtaining a refund.' Those who paid by other means, such as bank transfer, should register their claim with the liquidator, RCM Advisory Limited, with Richard Cacho appointed as liquidator.
Company background
SkiYodl was founded by Oliver Dannatt and his business partner Simon Latarche. Oliver, a former ski instructor to Sir Richard Branson, is the son of Lord Richard Dannatt, a former head of the British Army, and Lady Philippa Dannatt, the Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk.
In 2021, the company launched a £750,000 fundraising round to finance expansion after the pandemic, with Norfolk TV presenter Jake Humphrey pledging support and committing to invest. Operations paused again when the Omicron variant hit Europe in late 2021, but resumed when France reopened its borders in early 2022, reportedly earning £500,000 in three months.
