Travel
U.S.-based Direct Travel has acquired its longtime strategic partner ATPI, forming one of the world’s largest travel management companies with a combined annual travel volume exceeding $6 billion.
The move marks a major consolidation in the corporate travel industry, uniting two companies with a multi-year track record of collaboration. ATPI, headquartered in the UK, is one of the most established international travel and event management firms, with deep expertise across specialized sectors such as marine, energy, sports, and mining.
“This partnership represents a pivotal moment in reshaping managed travel,” said Christal Bemont, CEO of Direct Travel. “ATPI’s commanding international presence and history with us make them a perfect fit to scale exceptional service globally.”
The acquisition is set to accelerate the global rollout of Avenir Travel Edition, Direct Travel’s next-gen platform aimed at enhancing the business travel experience through real-time data, improved traveler satisfaction, and greater value for suppliers.
Ian Sinderson, CEO of ATPI, emphasized the strategic synergy, saying: “Bringing our organizations together enables us to better serve clients through a powerful blend of technology, specialized services, and highly skilled teams.”
In the Philippines, ATPI plays a key operational role through its International Center of Excellence in Makati, which supports global clients across various industries with 24/7 solutions.
Direct Travel intends to invest further in ATPI’s core strengths, particularly in high-demand niche sectors, positioning the combined entity as a strong alternative to mega-agencies in the global travel management market.
Jefferies LLC served as financial advisor and Perkins Coie LLP as legal counsel to Direct Travel. Baird advised ATPI.
