ATPI CEO Ian Sinderson said the travel management company is relieved that the sale to Direct Travel has finally gone through.
The long-anticipated acquisition of ATPI by its US-based long-term strategic partner was completed on Monday.
Speaking to The Business Travel Magazine in an interview that day, Sinderson said: “For ATPI the uncertainty is over. When you’re in this process for the length of time we were, you’re inevitably treading water and it gets to the point where you want the certainty to drive things forward. We’re here now. It’s a very, very positive step.”
The deal, which has been the subject of speculation in the industry for some time, will see the formation of a company with more than $6 billion in annual total travel volume.
An announcement said the union will also help accelerate the international rollout of Avenir Travel Edition, the “next-generation” platform launched by Direct earlier this year.
When asked about the possibilities of redundancies, a Direct Travel spokeswoman said: “We do not anticipate redundancies as a result of this acquisition. In addition to not fully integrating our businesses at this time, there is minimal overlap, and where overlap does exist, we need every employee to ensure our customers continue to receive exceptional service and support. This acquisition is about growth – expanding our geographic presence, enhancing our capabilities, and positioning us for future success.”
The spokeswoman also confirmed that the ATPI brand “will be kept intact for now”.
“Direct are fully committed to supporting and investing in ATPI’s specialised sectors, including marine and energy. These are strong businesses with a significant market share, and Direct see opportunities to grow them further,” the spokeswoman added.
ATPI was the subject of a management buy-out in December 2012 by the then CEO Graham Ramsey and Intermediate Capital Group (ICG) and formed a strategic partnership with US-based Direct Travel five years later.
Last year, Denver-based Direct Travel was acquired by an investment group led by Steve Singh, which also owns Spotnana, Troop and Center.
“This acquisition aligns with Direct Travel’s vision of reimaging how the world connects,” said the spokeswoman.
“By joining forces with ATPI, Direct Travel gains a global presence, new expertise in specialised sectors, and the ability to deliver a unique combination of scale, technology, and personalised service.
“The acquisition of ATPI by Direct Travel builds on our already successful partnership, creating a new kind of global agency that combines scale, innovation, and a unique brand of personalised service to transform global corporate travel and create new value for our clients and suppliers.”
When asked why the deal has taken so long to complete, she said: “With acquisitions such as this, there is a lot that needs to come together.”
Sinderson and the rest of the ATPI senior executive team will stay on, including MDs and business line heads.
“Our success relies on the incredible talent across both entities, and will remain focused on maintaining business, supporting our customers and meeting our commitments,” said the spokeswoman.
Sinderson added: “By bolstering our already strong position in travel technology and highly specialised travel support, we will combine to provide a compelling alternative to mega-agencies for global travel throughout our range of extensive geographic markets and business lines.”
Christal Bemont, CEO, Direct Travel, said: “This partnership represents a pivotal moment in reshaping managed travel, allowing us to deliver tailored solutions and a seamless experience for clients across a range of sectors and of all sizes and locations. Together, we will redefine what it means to offer The Perfect Trip on a global scale.”
