Asia inbound operator Diethelm Travel Group has acquired one of Thailand’s leading destination management companies
Bangkok-based Travel Center Asia (TCA) will be merged under the Diethelm Travel brand from November 1.
TCA owner, Thomas Maurer, will stay on during the transition while all key members of the business will move to become part of the new team.
The acquisition for an undisclosed sum will enable Diethelm to secure more access to key European markets, in which TCA is a specialist.
TCA, which has roots in Thomas Cook Group, is also known for customised high-end tours and services as well as special interest travel, such as cycling tours, and large group incentive experiences.
The acquisition is follows a merger between Diethelm Travel and Tourasia in the past year.
Additionally, Diethelm Travel is moving its Bangkok headquarters to newly upgraded offices in the heart of the Thai capital’s major central business district.
The company expects to complete the relocation by December 1.
Diethelm Travel, one of largest independently owned incoming tour operators in Asia, employs more than 500 staff worldwide and offers tours in 13 countries in Asia.
Group CEO Stephan Roemer said: “Travel Center Asia has long been a prominent DMC, particularly for Thailand travel.
“Combining the brand’s excellent relationships within Thailand as well as their key accounts in various European markets and Canada, this new acquisition is an excellent complement to Diethelm Travel’s existing Thailand operations, and further highlights our ambitions to continue strengthening our position as a leading regional DMC partner in Asia.”
Maurer added: “I’m confident that the acquisition is a smart move for both entities as each is committed to providing unparalleled on-the-ground service, excellent rates and unique Asia travel products throughout the region.
“I look forward to seeing how the two companies come together and continue to grow.”