Business

Randox offers discounted PCR tests for holidaymakers

Randox was founded by Dr Peter Fitzgerald
Randox was founded by Dr Peter Fitzgerald Randox was founded by Dr Peter Fitzgerald

Co Antrim medical diagnostics firm Randox is to offer cut-price PCR tests for travellers returning to the UK from overseas.

Randox announced it will charge customers flying with partner airlines £60 for the tests, which typically cost around £120.

The partner airlines have not been identified, but the PA news agency understands they will be major carriers and the discount will be available ahead of the summer.

Last week’s British government announcement that travellers returning to the UK from all destinations will be required to take PCR tests was met with an angry response from the travel industry.

Many firms wanted people arriving from low-risk countries to be able to take rapid lateral flow device tests, which are significantly cheaper and give results in 30 minutes or less.

PCR tests require swabs being processed in a laboratory, which can take several days and add to the expense.

Randox managing director Dr Peter FitzGerald said: “In recognition of the needs of both the travel industry and the British public at this unprecedented time, Randox will reduce the all-inclusive cost of PCR testing for those in the UK undertaking international travel to £60 per test.

“We can see the pressures faced by both the travel industry and the general public and are committed to effective and economical testing to support holidaymakers and those undertaking international travel.”