ALL 555 of Thomas Cook's stores have been agreed to be bought by rival firm Hays Travel.
The move is estimated to save up to 2,500 jobs - and Hays has already recruited a total of 421 former Thomas Cook employees.
The independent travel agent is buying the shops from the Official Receiver which was appointed when Thomas Cook collapsed last month.
A statement from Hays owners John and Irene Hays, said: “Thomas Cook was a much-loved brand employing talented people. We look forward to working with many of them.”
The company now intends to reopen the shops immediately.
READ MORE: Former Thomas Cook staff in Alexandria say thanks
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here