New opportunities to come from industry shake-up

FCm Travel Solutions, the global corporate travel arm of Flight Centre Limited, believes opportunities will come from major changes of ownership among travel management companies in Europe and the US over recent weeks.

FCm Travel Solutions’ executive general manager, Anthony Grigson said he did not anticipate these changes would have any negative impact on the business as it continues to be among the world’s leading travel management companies.

”While FCm Travel Solutions is one of the newer global players in corporate travel, our network has been established through equity ownership in key markets and has grown through strategic relationships in other countries. This network gives us a long history of success, which is a strong foundation for our continued expansion,” Mr Grigson said.

“We’re pursuing new opportunities as a result of industry changes both in Europe and the US to further grow our international presence.

“I believe the shake-up will also help us to leverage our competitive advantages in the Asia-Pacific region, because it highlights the strong position we have here.

“The difference is that we’re the only global TMC based within the region. So we have an understanding of the market – and of what local companies want in travel management – that’s unmatched.

“In addition, our philosophy is about taking a flexible, tailored and highly professional approach to our clients and their employees. Corporate travel is about very individual preferences. Companies and their travellers want flexibility, security, efficiency and value, and they want these things for different reasons. That’s why every one of our offices in Asia Pacific and around the world offers a totally dedicated and personalised service.

“We don’t believe it’s possible to provide a quality travel management service without getting to know clients on a personal level and engaging in their organisational culture.”

Mr Grigson said FCm Travel Solutions had a significant presence in Asia Pacific, following its expansion in the region by almost 500 per cent – and globally by 350 per cent – over the past year. The group recently added Japan and Korea to its worldwide network, opened a fourth office in greater China and finalised the acquisition of a majority share holding in India’s leading TMC.

“Our business strategy is focused on continued steady growth supported by strong management and excellent systems,” he said.

“Despite the changes currently occurring in the corporate travel industry, many of which have been expected, we will continue to work towards our goal of achieving 15 per cent market share in each region by 2010.”