The Travel Network Group has acquired Pudsey-based Hanson Travel for an undisclosed sum.
Hanson Travel, a Worldchoice member, was set up in 1986 by husband and wife team Paul and Denise Hanson, who are retiring from the sector.
Chief executive of TTNG, Gary Lewis, said: “We are delighted to be taking over this well-managed and successful independent travel business as it complements the profile of our other wholly-owned stores network. While this acquisition only takes our wholly-owned network to five stores, it is a strategic purchase.
“We know that from time to time our Members re-evaluate their careers and consider their options on the direction they take with their businesses, and last year we made a commitment to Worldchoice Members that if they were looking to exit through sale or retirement to contact us with a view to us acquiring, and this is the first purchase of this kind to be made.”
Kathryn Beaumont, who joined the business when it began 30 years ago, will continue in her role as manager under the new ownership structure.
Paul Hanson, added: “I’m pleased the future of Hanson Travel is now secure in the capable hands of manager Kathryn Beaumont, who has been with us since the beginning 30 years ago, and now with the backing of the Worldchoice management team.”
Lewis said the group would not be seeking to make wide-spread acquisitions but if members’ businesses were profitable with potential for growth then they would be considered.