APT acquires majority stake in One Traveller parent Rodina Holdings

Australian Pacific Touring (APT) has acquired a majority stake in Rodina Holdings Ltd, parent of solo specialist One Traveller.

One Traveller, which was founded by Ian Darkin in 2007, primarily targets the over-50s market and has traditionally operated as a direct-sell business.

While it has been operating for nearly 20 years, the holding company Rodina Holdings was established in July 2021 as part of a restructure by Darkin and his wife Emma.

Documents filed at Companies House state APT was listed as a person with significant control – owning 75% or more of the shares – of Rodina Holdings on February 6.

On the same date, APT chief executive David Cox, co-owner and director Louise Tandy and non-executive director Alexander Roberts were appointed as directors of the company.

APT said it would be “business as usual for the One Traveller team” with Ian Darkin remaining as director.

Rodina Holdings generated turnover of £23.4m for the financial year ending January 31, 2025, up from £19m the previous year.

Overall operating profit for the year increased by 41.8% to £2.6m, up from £1.8m in 2024.

One Traveller currently has an Atol for 6,113 passengers, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

APT UK and Europe managing director Paul Melinis said the deal “marks another exciting and significant step forward for us and is a clear reflection of the strong momentum we have built in the UK market”.

He added: “Having established ourselves as a market leader in river cruise and touring in UK travel, this acquisition forms a key part of our strategy to further cement that position and expand our portfolio.

“We see real and compelling opportunities ahead and will continue to actively seek acquisitions where the right fit, shared values and long-term potential align.”