Shares of Shares of Manchester-based online holiday retailer On the Beach Group plc (OTB) soared as much as 12% after it announced that it has signed a long-term distribution agreement with Ryanair Holdings.

“The agreement represents a transformational shift in OTB’s relationship with its most significant low cost carrier,” said the Manchester firm.

“It enables OTB customers to seamlessly access Ryanair’s low fare flights as part of their holiday packages with full price transparency, whilst continuing to benefit from OTB’s flexible payment plans, customer perks (including free lounge and fast track), and ATOL (Air Travel Organisers’ Licensing) protection.”

On the Beach Group said that in summary, the agreement secures OTB “free and fair access” to Ryanair seat supply, facilitates a “smoother customer journey” when booking Ryanair flights as part of an OTB package, simplifies OTB operations “while enabling greater focus on areas of strategic value” and “enables the parties to move on from the outstanding litigation and focus efforts on building the partnership.”

On the Beach Group CEO Shaun Morton said: “We are excited to have entered into this transformational partnership with Ryanair.

“This will improve the booking and travel experience for our customers selecting Ryanair flights, while ensuring we can continue to provide customers with best value package holidays.

“We will continue our campaign to safeguard consumer choice in the travel sector and the signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone in On the Beach’s journey, as we strive to do the best for our customers.

“Importantly, this agreement enables both parties to move on from outstanding litigation and we look forward to working closely with our new partner.”

Ryanair’s Dara Brady said: “Ryanair is pleased to announce our latest partnership with leading OTA, On the Beach.

“This new deal will see Ryanair partner with its fourth approved OTA partner.

“On the Beach customers can now book Ryanair flights, seats, and bags as part of their holiday package with the guarantee that they will have full price transparency of Ryanair products (without any overcharges), and that they will receive any information regarding their flight directly from Ryanair as well as having direct access to their booking through their myRyanair account.”