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Cox & Kings poised to begin global expansion under Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Known as the world’s oldest travel company since its establishment in 1758, Cox & Kings (C&K) is on the brink of a new chapter in its history, specifically its global expansion strategically guided by the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) which acquired it back in 2019. This expansion represents a carefully calibrated move that will see Cox & Kings leverage its unrivalled historical legacy to offer a curated portfolio of exceptional travel experiences to travellers in pivotal markets such as the USA and Australia. AKTG executive chairman Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio said of the milestone: “Reimagining a brand as storied as Cox & Kings is both a privilege and a responsibility. As we’ve done with other iconic brands like Crystal, we are breathing new life into Cox & Kings, respecting its remarkable heritage while shaping it for a new generation of global travellers.” AKTG chief sales officer Marett Taylor added: “Cox & Kings has a long and storied history of crafting extraordinary travel experiences, and we are pleased to be expanding our reach to a global audience. This announcement further cements our commitment to this historic brand and to ensuring that the authentic Cox & Kings experience, which has defined its centuries-long legacy, is upheld and enhanced. Our commitment to exceptional service and authentic experiences remains at the heart of everything we do.” A storied establishment With a history dating back to 1758 and the vision of its founder, Richard Cox, Cox & Kings holds the distinction of being the original and world's oldest travel company. From its origins as a military agent, the company evolved through centuries of expansion and adaptation, navigating pivotal moments in history. The Cox & Kings operating under AKTG's ownership is the continuation of this esteemed legacy, bringing together the strengths of two remarkable leaders in travel. Under AKTG's strategic direction, Cox & Kings has continued to deliver high-quality travel experience across the world. Key achievements include seamless integration with A&K's extensive Destination Management Company (DMC) network, significantly expanding its operational capabilities and destination offerings. Likewise, Cox & Kings has undergone significant enhancements, including a refreshed website launched in 2024. The brand also benefits from AKTG's portfolio of assets, such as A&K Sanctuary, comprising camps and lodges in Africa, and riverboats in Egypt and soon Peru. Furthermore, Cox & Kings integrates A&K Philanthropy initiatives into its itineraries in destinations such as Jordan, Egypt, Peru, and across Africa, demonstrating a commitment to responsible travel. Charlton takes charge The expansion will be led by recently appointed Cox & Kings managing director Jennifer Charlton. Charlton will leverage AKTG’s strong global network, to broaden C&K's geographical footprint with the objective of cementing its position as a purveyor of distinctive immersive travel, characterised by meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to authentic cultural immersion. Keeping all these in mind, Charlton will continue to hold her position as senior vice-president for sales and business development for UK & EMEA. She said of her assignment: "I am honoured to lead Cox & Kings into this new chapter of global expansion. We are building upon our strong foundation and leveraging the extensive network and expertise of AKTG to offer unparalleled travel experiences. I am eager to introduce Cox & Kings to new markets and showcase our unique approach to travel, which seamlessly blends its rich heritage for the culturally curious traveller.” Charlton brings more than 30 years of extensive experience across the travel industry, and her distinguished career includes leadership roles in sales, business development, and global partnerships at prominent organisations such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, CWT, and Amex GBT. Recognised in 2019 as one of the top 40 women in global travel by WINT and an active participant in the IATA NDC Agent working party, Charlton's proven track record of success in business transformation and global rollouts makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead Cox & Kings in this new chapter.
Cox & Kings expands franchise network under new ownership by Wilson & Hughes
Representative Image Cox & Kings, one of the world’s most trusted travel brands, is expanding its presence across India with the launch of 10 new franchise locations in key cities. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to cater to the rising demand for outbound, domestic, and inbound travel. The new locations will provide travellers with personalized planning, expert consultation, and seamless booking services, all backed by advanced technology. With growing interest from entrepreneurs and travel enthusiasts, Cox & Kings plans to establish 300 franchises, preferred agents, and holiday clubs across India and globally over the next two years. The company aims to create a robust ecosystem that blends technology with customer-centric travel solutions, offering significant opportunities for investors in the sector. Speaking about the expansion, Karan Agarwal, Director of Cox & Kings, said: “As travel continues to evolve, we recognize the need for a perfect blend of technology and human connection. While AI-powered itinerary planning helps us create seamless, personalized journeys, an on-ground presence enhances trust and engagement with travellers. Our expansion into new cities reflects our commitment to providing world-class services, ensuring our franchise partners stay ahead in a competitive market while offering exceptional experiences to modern travellers.” Under the ownership of Wilson & Hughes Ltd., Cox & Kings is focusing on innovation and digital transformation to enhance the travel experience. Franchise partners will have access to AI-powered booking and itinerary-building systems, allowing them to deliver customized travel plans with efficiency and precision. Additionally, every franchise will feature trained travel experts who provide in-person consultation, ensuring a seamless and trusted customer experience. The integration of these digital tools with a strong offline presence positions Cox & Kings as a leader in the evolving travel industry. The expansion comes at a time when India’s travel industry is experiencing significant growth. According to industry reports, India’s outbound travel market is projected to exceed 50 million travellers by 2030, with rising demand for destinations such as Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Canada, and Japan. Domestic travel is also surging, particularly in cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai, driven by increased disposable income and a growing appetite for leisure travel. Meanwhile, inbound tourism is expected to grow at a 7.2% CAGR, fueled by interest in cultural, spiritual, and adventure tourism. Following its acquisition by Wilson & Hughes Ltd. in 2024, Cox & Kings has embarked on a new chapter, leveraging its rich legacy while embracing modern travel solutions. The acquisition included only the brand, with no assets or liabilities from previous ownership, ensuring a fresh start focused on innovation, quality service, and customer satisfaction. The rebranded Cox & Kings has already attracted renewed interest from past partners and associates, many of whom are eager to reconnect with the brand. Given the growing demand, Wilson & Hughes anticipates the addition of 10-20 more franchise locations across India and globally in the near future. With a strong vision for the future, Cox & Kings is set to redefine travel through a combination of cutting-edge technology, customer-focused services, and a commitment to delivering seamless, memorable journeys for travelers worldwide.
Cox & Kings reveal 2023 travel recommendations
Cox & Kings has over 260 years of experience arranging high-end travel to the world's most captivating destinations. As the appetite for travel continues to move forward at a palpable rate, the company has released its 2023 travel recommendations. From up-and-coming destinations like Slovenia to their first no fly trip to Paris, the company has outlined a variety of different destinations for the culturally curious traveller, all of which can be found in their 23/24 brochure which was launched recently. Up and Comers Some of our most up and coming destinations that we see real interest in next year. Splendours of Chile Chile is an extraordinarily beautiful country, encompassing just about every type of landscape on Earth, from the arid desert of the north, through verdant lakes and pastures to the soaring peaks and glaciers of Patagonia. This expansive tour explores Chile’s spectacular desert, mountain scenery and Patagonian wilderness, and allows time to discover some fascinating Chilean traditions. NEW Spotlight on Slovenia Sandwiched between the Alps and the Adriatic, Slovenia is often referred to as 'Europe in miniature'. This small nation is home to beautiful mountains, stunning lakes, historic cities, pretty coastal towns, deep forest and rich farmland. In this new tour, centred on the capital, you've the opportunity to explore Ljubljana itself; Lake Bled and its island church; Piran, famous for its Venetian architecture; and the Postojna cave complex. You also have many chances to sample Slovenia's wonderful cuisine and local produce. Multi Centre Cox & Kings has seen a growing trend for multi-centre destinations; one trip which takes in two or more countries, allowing guests to tick off several places, all on one trip. Grand Tour of South America This tour focuses on South America's cultural and natural highlights, revealing the continent's diversity, and passing from high Andean scenery down to the thundering Iguazú Falls. Stop in buzzing cities along the way including Bolivia’s capital of La Paz, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires in Argentina and the exotic Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. Across the Southern Caucasus Take an exciting journey across all three states of the southern Caucasus. Beginning in the oil-rich Muslim nation of Azerbaijan on the shores of the Caspian Sea, you will travel through Georgia, famous for its ancient monasteries and viticulture, and finish in the small, proud nation of Armenia, one of the oldest Christian countries in the world. NEW Ultimate Tour: In the Footsteps of the Great Tanzania and Kenya share hosting duties for one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the annual wildebeest migration. This group tour offers the chance to follow the millions of migrating wildebeests, zebras and antelopes as they move from the Serengeti to the Masai Mara. Enjoy authentic cultural experiences and immersive wildlife viewing in some of Africa’s greatest national parks. Travelling with An Expert Cox & Kings is well known for its expert guiding – below we’ve revealed some of the top trips for 2023, guided by experts. NEW Beyond Versailles: Ancien France Uncovered Travelling by rail from London, uncover the grandeur of Ancien Régime-era France beyond the Palace of Versailles, alongside art historians Andrew Spira or Lydia Bauman. Visitors rarely explore France’s royal heritage beyond Versailles or the Louvre, and this tour provides a unique insight into the people and places which shaped the country we know today. From Leonardo Da Vinci’s home in Amboise to the imposing chateau at Compiegne, your itinerary will cover centuries of royal patronage of art and architecture prior to the revolution of 1789. New India and Pakistan: Splendours of the Mughal Empire The Mughal Empire, derived from the word Mongol, had its origins in Central Asia. Babur, its first ruler, was a direct descendant of the renowned ruler and conqueror Amir Timur. He united Mongol traditions, Persian high culture and the Central Asian patronage of Islamic art with the wealth and vibrancy of the subcontinent. Visiting two of the empire’s successor nations, India and Pakistan, this tour will explore the shared legacy of a dynasty whose enduring cultural influence travelled as far as the court of Queen Victoria. Culture Vultures Celebrate the diversity of cultures abroad. Egypt: Ancient Wonders of Cairo & the Nile Explore the wonders of Egypt via the River Nile on this exceptional tour. Visit Giza’s pyramids before taking a flight to the ancient town of Aswan, where Agatha Christie wrote her novel Death on the Nile. Here you will board one of the country’s premier luxury cruise vessels, the Sanctuary Nile Adventurer, for a four-night, five-star river cruise to Luxor. Throughout the journey, you will chase ancient sites with an expert Egyptologist, who will regale you with tales of pharaohs, kings and a pantheon of exotic gods. After learning about the fabled figures whose pasts are imprinted in Egypt’s millennia-old carvings and hieroglyphics, you will depart with a deeper insight into this fascinating corner of the world. Uzbekistan: Heart of Central Asia Set on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan has played host to waves of conquerors and nomads. See the legacy they left behind in the towering fortresses of Khiva and Bukhara, and the Islamic architecture of Samarkand. The remnants of more recent Soviet history are evident in the capital city, Tashkent.
A&K to grow UK luxury travel market with Cox & Kings acquisition
Geoffrey Kent, founder, chairman and CEO of Abercrombie & Kent Luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent is in advanced discussions concerning the proposed acquisition of the UK business of Cox & Kings. A&K's proposal will safeguard all current and future bookings and employees of Cox & Kings UK and involve new investment in the business. As a heritage brand, with a loyal client database, A&K believes the two brands complement each other to create a combined brand proposition that will grow the UK luxury travel market. Geoffrey Kent, founder and co-chairman, commented: "I'm excited at the prospect of adding the Cox & Kings UK business to the Abercrombie & Kent family. The acquisition will expand our portfolio of product offerings in the UK, particularly with their established escorted touring programme. This is just the start of our growth plans in the UK and globally." "We can take Cox & Kings to the next level" Kerry Golds, managing director, added: "We're committed to investing in Cox & Kings. It's a renowned brand with an experienced and dedicated team that I'm looking forward to working with. I'm confident that with their strong trade relationships and loyal client base, we can take Cox & Kings to the next level."
Cox & Kings no longer USTOA member, ceases US operations
Cox & Kings, The Americas including its affiliate East India Travel Company – is no longer a member of the US Tour Operators Association (USTOA), the USTOA reported. USTOA also confirmed that Cox & Kings ceased its US operations from 14 October this week. “Travel agents should be aware that purchases of Cox & Kings, The Americas products made prior to 15 October 2019, may be protected under the USTOA USD 1 million travellers assistance programme. Client deposits and payments thereafter will not be covered by the USTOA programme,” said Terry Dale, president and CEO of USTOA. Passengers who have lost deposits or payments made prior to 15 October for travel with Cox & Kings, The Americas may be eligible to file claims for non-performance of their tour under USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Programme, the USTOA said. The USTOA’s USD 1 Million Travelers Assistance Programme, requires each participating USTOA member to post USD 1 million security, which the USTOA can solely use in reimbursing travellers for tour payments or deposits lost in the event of bankruptcy, insolvency, cessation of business, or the failure to refund deposits or payments within 120 days following the cancellation of a tour or vacation package.
EbixCash buys corporate travel business of Cox & Kings
EbixCash has acquired the corporate travel business from Cox & Kings for an undisclosed amount. This is its second acquisition in recent months, after its purchase of Yatra.com. The company said it has signed a deal with Cox & Kings to transfer its business travel agreements to the EbixCash’s Mercury Travel division. “Under the agreement, key employees of Cox & Kings will be transferred to the EbixCash payroll, with immediate effect. This transfer agreement is part of EbixCash’s efforts to double its revenues from the corporate travel sector by the end of this financial year, from the previous year,” said EbixCash.
YES Bank acquires 18.55% in Cox & Kings
YES Bank has acquired 18.55% stake in Cox and Kings on invocation of pledged shares. It has also acquired 30% stake in Ezeego One Travel & Tours, which is promoted by Cox & Kings. “YES Bank has, pursuant to invocation of pledge acquired shares – 3,27,50,139 equity shares having nominal value of INR 5 a share, constituting 18.55% of the post-issue paid-up share capital, of a listed company, Cox & Kings; and 34,080 equity shares having nominal value of INR 10 (USD 0.15) per share, constituting 30% of the post-issue paid-up share capital, of an unlisted company, namely, Ezeego One Travel & Tours,” it said in a regulatory filing. The shares have been invoked after breach of credit facilities and loans to Ezeego One, YES Bank said. The move comes at a time when Cox & Kings has been facing an asset-liability mismatch. In a regulatory filing on 1 July, it had announced that its working capital situation was stretched in the last few months, which was further impacted due to its inability to replace short-term loans with long-term loans or regular working capital lines. Some of its bank guarantees are being encashed by International Air Transport Association (IATA). IATA had also suspended the licence of Cox & Kings for selling tickets as the company continues to grapple with the liquidity crisis.
Social media continues to influence the way we travel: Cox & Kings
One of the oldest travel companies in the world and also one of the leading leisure travel groups with operations across continents, Cox & Kings has been in operation since 1758. Headquartered in India, C&K has over the last three decades transformed itself into a diversified, multinational travel conglomerate with a focus on the new-age global consumer. Peter Kerkar, Group CEO, Cox & Kings shares his views on trends that are set to define travel in 2019. Travel to influence For millennials, travelling to new places, exploring new experiences, trying out new cuisines and interacting with people from diverse cultural backgrounds have become an intrinsic part of their lifestyle. This passionate generation of travellers is more likely to make their travel decisions based on the travel posts of their peers on social media because social media is a more authentic source of information. At the same time, it is important for them to capture their best travel stories through photos and videos and inspire their circle of friends and colleagues to take up travel. Wi-fi enabled places and hotels are bliss for such travellers as it enables them to post live travel updates. Far and beyond Curiosity drives travellers to pursue their travel dream. A rising number of them are keen on exploring what's beyond at some of the most remote locations in the world. Based on the travel-searches made by holidaymakers in 2018, there is an evident trend of rising interest in places beyond city-centres and conventional tourist spots. Following the footsteps of Charles Darwin, a new tribe of travellers are making their way to Galapagos archipelago to experience the endemic species and inhabited islands. Similarly, cruising through Norwegian Fjords to reach the remote shores of Svalbard watching the passing shining glaciers and stunning landscapes are all experiences catching the eyes of avid travellers who wish to reach earth's edges in 2019. Walking Tours Each place, if observed carefully, tells you multiple stories about its history, culture, biodiversity, geography, food, architecture and people. Many travellers consider exploring destinations on foot as the best way to delve into several intricate aspects of the place, which one might miss otherwise. This is why many passionate travellers are relying more on guided walking tours to enjoy the experience. Though city walks are the most common form of walking tours, they are gradually moving to food walks, cultural trails and photography stroll among others according to the specific interest of the travellers. While heritage walk in South Mumbai is common, one can get introduced to unusual sea creatures in Mumbai during a guided Marine walk near Haji Ali. Similarly, gourmet walking tours in France offer an amazing experience to the foodies with food and wine pairing, cooking classes, gourmet restaurants and even a bit of local culture like cheese and truffles. Travelling on foot also offers the opportunity to spend sufficient time at any given place, explore the local culture and reach inaccessible spots. Walking tours at Machu Picchu is a great window into the colossal mountains, lush vegetation and ecological wonders while the forest trails of Japan are equally resplendent. Multigenerational Travel The joy of travelling with the family is unmatched, and it seems to also take centre-stage in 2019. Nuclear families with hectic lives find it difficult to meet their family members on a regular basis, for them, travelling with their grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles, cousins have become a great time to spend some quality time. In addition, instead of closed-door celebrations, family members of different generations are travelling together to celebrate several occasions like birthdays, anniversary and other family events. Cruising is also one of the top five leisure options for multigenerational family groups as it is more relaxed and lesser activity based, especially when there are older family members travelling along. Luxury Travel Over the next decade, the growth rate for luxury travel is projected to be at 6.2%. While the developing nations are at the forefront of the growth acceleration, an increase in the disposable incomes in these countries is favourable to luxury travel. Although currency fluctuations in different nations slightly affected the segment, it has made the developed nations seek luxury travel at further discounted prices, fuelling the growth. Dark tourism Curious travellers always want to explore every nook and cranny filled with unforeseen surprises and great adventures. Some people find it thrilling and entertaining to visit mysterious places like Kuldhara village in Rajasthan that are believed to be haunted. While others may visit tragic sites such as Cambodian Killing Fields memorial or Berlin wall in Germany, some also visit the 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero when in New York. Though for most of the travellers visiting the sites of death and disaster is only a part of a wider range of thing to do, a large number of travellers in some way are getting attracted to such sites because they wish to review these chapters in history and remind them of these incidents. Bid adieu to overtourism Although there is a trend of travellers being more sensitive towards geopolitical and other related issues, off late these factors have started influencing the travellers' decision and overtourism is a great put-off. It is non-desirable to get stuck in long queues or crowded streets on a leisure trip. While Italy is using phone apps to deal with overcrowding by giving real-time updates, Dubrovnik is experimenting with dispersing cruise timings through the week. 2019 will see more travellers taking trips in the off-season and new destinations near the saturated ones stand benefitted. Responsible Travel There is no running away from the much devastation that has rocked our oceans, beaches, forests and Islands. Most being tourist places, the onus of the situation must be borne by the travellers as well as operators. However, there are organisations and operators that have highest regards for sustainability. Travellers including majorly the millennials consider themselves equally responsible for the disaster and duty-bound to reverse it. 2019 will see a spurt in the number of responsible travellers demanding for sensitive travel packages as well as sustainable operators to ensure a guilt-free tour. Plastic-free travel, volun-tourism, sustainable and green tours are predicted to be extensively used terms in the travel space.
Azamara Club Cruises pairs with Cox & Kings to make stays in cities memorable
Azamara Club Cruises has partnered with luxury tour operator Cox & Kings and launched the City Stays program that will allow guests to explore the iconic arrival or departure ports. The programme is part of Azamara’s Destination Immersion and will be available before and after sailings, which offer curated travel experiences -- with an emphasis on local connections. "Explore a city from a local's perspective" Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises, said: "As a leader in delivering authentic cultural experiences across the globe, the expansion of Azamara's land offerings to include City Stays programs in key markets enhances our guests' connection with the destination by providing opportunities to explore a city from a local's perspective. “Now that we have the opportunity to visit more destinations with our new ship, Azamara Pursuit, we will continue to expand our City Stays program across most if not all of our turnaround ports, reinforcing Azamara's commitment to Destination Immersion experiences." Cox & Kings' president Patrick Richards said that the luxury tour operator customized some truly special experiences in some cities for Azamara guests. The City Stays programme includes three or more night accommodations and guests can select meals, airport transfers as well as transportation services from the port to the hotel. Highlights from the new City Stays, available before and after select Azamara Club Cruises' voyages, include: Singapore Dive into Singapore's renowned culinary culture with a local food critic as a guide. Travellers will set off on a scavenger hunt through the city's cultural sites and enjoy private visits with local artisans, including a fifth-generation baker, a master paper house builder and a coffee connoisseur. Barcelona, Spain Travellers go beyond the traditional sights of one of Europe's most dynamic cities. Guests can expect to visit a fourth-generation candy artisan, stroll through the unique district of Born – an artistic neighbourhood with luxury shopping and museums - and experience a flamenco performance at night. On a food exploration of the city, guests will enjoy a meal with a local family while learning about their history, they will have a gourmet picnic lunch in the park with a Spanish family and join a local wine connoisseur in the evening to try a selection of Spain's best wines, some of which are more than 30 years old. Rome, Italy During this tour of Italy's capital, travellers will go beyond the traditional sights of this historic city. Journey to an organic farm on the outskirts of Rome, where travellers will learn how to make bread and gnocchi, forage for wild herbs, enjoy a lakefront lunch, visit a milk and cheese laboratory, and go on a horseback ride. Following the excursion, participants will receive an exclusive tour of the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel – before public opening hours – and have dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Number of Indians travelling to Morocco set to rise with Cox & Kings new visa centres
Cox & Kings Global Services (CKGS), announced the opening of Morocco Visa Application and Information Centres (MVAIC) in India. The Centre in New Delhi was inaugurated today by His Excellency Mr Mohamed MALIKI, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, in the presence of Ms Venku Murthi, chief operating officer of CKGS. Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Maliki (main picture, right) said, “Both Morocco and India have shared values and a history that goes back over several centuries. Foreseeing growth and significance of the Indian tourism market to Morocco, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco has decided to outsource the visa application services and has entrusted CKGS to open visa application centres in India. The opening of the visa application centres in major cities in India is an important milestone which reflects the strength of the two countries’ relations as well as Morocco’s outreach to Indian travellers. We want to encourage more and more Indians to consider travelling to Morocco and at the same time provide a seamless experience in applying for visas.” First phase centres include Delhi Mumbai Chennai Kolkatta Second phase centres Ahmedabad Pune Goa Indore Bengaluru Chandigarh Jaipur Commenting on the new mandate, Ms Venku Murthi, chief operating officer (main picture,left), CKGS said, “We are happy to be entrusted with the role of providing Visa Application Services by the Embassy of Morocco as this is an opportune time to tap the growing Indian outbound travel market, which is growing in double digits. Our offices across 11 centres in India will seamlessly facilitate visa processing, thereby increasing the number of Indians travelling to Morocco.’’ Discover a fresh take on modest activewear with Garaza — where Finnish minimalism meets cultural awareness and modern-day performance. In order to obtain a visa, an applicant will have to download the form and submit it to the MVAIC, along with the required documents and collect them once it has been issued. All the centres are open from Monday to Friday between 08:00 – 17:00 hours. For more information regarding the same, log on to http://www.ma.ckgs.in/.
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