Qantas is accelerating its expansion into the holiday packages market by acquiring the remaining 49 per cent of the Byron Bay online travel business TripADeal.
The acquisition will enable Qantas to deepen synergies by combining Qantas and Jetstar’s extensive network with the growing curated tour market, and also create a more tailored and integrated experience for Qantas Frequent Flyers.
Qantas purchased a majority stake in TripADeal in 2022, enabling its Frequent Flyers to earn and use their Qantas Points on African safaris, Fiji beach holidays, European getaways, adventures to India, and other ready-made holiday packages.
The remaining 49 per cent will be purchased for A$211 million (US$139.4 million), with the transaction expected to be completed by the end of June. Through the full acquisition, Qantas expects combined cost and revenue synergies to build to at least A$50 million annually across the group, over time.
During July, Qantas members will also receive a 30 per cent discount on bookings made with points.
TripADeal will continue to operate as an independent business, working with a range of travel partners and airlines, including Qantas and Jetstar, to build and deliver ready-made packages. TripADeal recently added cruises to its platform, expanding the itinerary options for travellers.
The purchase will see founders of TripADeal, Norm Black and Richard Johnston, depart the business. Matt Wolfenden, who has been with the company for seven years, has been promoted to CEO and will lead the 150- strong team in Byron Bay and tour guides based in 30 countries.
“TripADeal has been building on-trend and well-priced holiday packages for over a decade and has delighted millions of holidaymakers in the process. This success has only been turbo-charged by the Qantas partnership, and the opportunity for our members to earn and use their points,” said Qantas loyalty CEO Andrew Glance.
“With TripADeal bookings growing at 70 per cent over the last year, and more opportunities to strengthen the offering and realise further synergies, this deal is great news for our customers and the loyalty business more broadly.”
