The Hertz Corporation has announced that despite lengthy discussions regarding a contractual dispute it regrets that it has had to end its car hire agreement with Ryanair. Hertz reassures customers that existing bookings will be fully honoured and that future bookings can be made directly at the Hertz (www.hertz.ie), Thrifty and Firefly websites.
Michel Taride, Group President, Hertz International, said: “We have enjoyed many years of a successful relationship with Ryanair, but unfortunately we were not able to reach agreement with the airline over a significant contractual dispute in spite of considerable effort.
“The majority of Ryanair passengers who need car hire from the Hertz brands in July and August are already booked and confirmed. Any customer who wishes to book car rental and enjoy great service at competitive rates can make arrangements directly with us. Customers can also modify existing bookings on the Ryanair website.
“Hertz deeply values all of its partnerships, some which have been going for more than 20 years. We strongly believe in mutually beneficial partnerships and would never take lightly the decision to end a key relationship.
“We are confident in our legal position and intend to pursue this matter vigorously through the courts.”
Ryanair Response
In response, Ryanair said: “Hertz allege that Ryanair’s agreement with GDS distribution companies represents a breach of contract, a claim which Ryanair disputes given that Ryanair has been distributing through GDSs since April 2014 (a period of over 15 months) with Hertz’s knowledge and support.
“Hertz have confirmed in their notice that all existing bookings will be honoured and customers will still be able to modify their bookings on the microsite following its decommissioning at 12.00hrs today (2nd July). Ryanair believes this termination is in breach of its long-term exclusive contract with Hertz, which was recently extended for a five-year period to 2020.”
