Qantas aims to dominate the travel industry by acquiring the full TripADeal offering : News : TravelersToday

Qantas is to take full ownership of travel company TripADeal, expanding its role in the $13 billion online holiday package market. The airline will acquire the remaining 49% of the Byron Bay-based company.

The $211 million deal is expected to close by the end of June 2024.

Qantas is improving the service with integration with TripADeal

Since 2022, when Qantas first bought a majority stake in TripADeal, it has enabled its frequent travelers to use points towards a variety of holiday packages.

With this full acquisition, Qantas plans to more closely integrate these offerings into its overall services. This can improve travel planning for customers, especially those using points to get discounts and offers.

According to Breaking News Travel, the deal aims to strengthen the link between Qantas’ air services and TripADeal’s bespoke travel packages, which cover destinations such as Africa and Europe.

In July 2024, Qantas members will be able to take advantage of a special offer – 30% discount on bookings made with points.

TripADeal, founded by Norm Black and Richard Johnston, has performed well, achieving more than $450 million in bookings last year. Under the new agreement, Matt Wolfenden will lead TripADeal as CEO.

The company employs 150 people in Byron Bay and runs tours in 30 countries.

Andrew Glance, CEO of Qantas Loyalty, said the acquisition is consistent with Qantas’ mission to deliver exceptional travel experiences. Both Black and Johnston believe Qantas is well-positioned to ensure TripADeal’s continued growth and success.

Financially, the acquisition is consistent with Qantas Loyalty’s strategy to increase returns for shareholders and maintain growth momentum.

The cost of the transaction is included in the Qantas Group capital expenditure plan for financial year 2024.

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Qantas reveals Olympic colors for Dreamliner

Qantas has unveiled a new Olympic livery for one of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with a large “GO AUSTRALIA” lettering in support of Australian athletes heading to the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The plane, which will transport athletes to and from the matches, is decorated with the national colors of green and yellow, reminiscent of the Australian acacia tree.

The airline, known as Flying Kangaroo, continues its long tradition of supporting Australia’s Olympic and Paralympic teams.

Simple Flying announced that a special livery was unveiled today at the Qantas Jet Base, highlighting Qantas’ role as the official carrier of the teams for the 2024 season. This cooperation has been going on for over 70 years, and in 1948, Qantas athletes were the first Australian athletes to fly to the London Games.

Qantas Group Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Hudson highlighted the airline’s commitment to supporting Australian athletes, noting the mutual pride and history shared between Qantas and the national teams.

The Dreamliner, registered VH-NZH, also represents Qantas’ wider support for people with disabilities, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all passengers.

This initiative is part of Qantas’ ongoing efforts to foster national spirit and support athletes as they compete on the international stage.

After the Games, athletes will return to Sydney for ceremonies, continuing the tradition of the national teams’ grand homecoming.

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