There were prizes and surprises when Abercrombie & Kent held their annual Global Travel Showcase at the Art Gallery of New South Wales last night.
Travel agents gathered to learn about the latest developments across A&K’s portfolio of luxury brands, including Cox & Kings, Crystal and EcoVentura, and the products and incentives designed to strengthen engagement with the Australian trade.
The Sydney event was the final trade briefing of the showcase, following similar events in Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Noosa and the Gold Coast.
“We really have been building something special so a big thank you for all of your support, past, present and future,” said Susan Haberle, VP Sales & Partnerships, AKTG.
“It is really exciting times with the expansion plans and development under AKTG, and you are a massive part. You’re the reason why we can do this expansion so thank you for being on this journey with us.”
Ms Haberle revealed A&K now has more than 70 wholly owned destination management companies around the world, with recent additions or growth in Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea and Bolivia.
“What does this means to you? It means locals on the ground. With their expertise, they open doors, they open access.” Ms Haberle said.
The audience heard from four of these local experts (below) who look after clients travelling to Africa, the Galápagos Islands, Europe and the Nordics.
L to R: Eric Andrews, EcoVentura; Lidia Gallo, Nordics; Harriet Fisher, Europe; Akash Baijnath, E&S Africa
In Bolivia, A&K plans to open Samkani Camp on the Uyuni Salt Flats towards the end of next year. The property is expected to feature five architecturally designed Airstream accommodation units, alongside communal dining and lounge facilities.
The company is also preparing to introduce its latest Nile riverboat, the Nile Seray, which features 32 suites, while plans are progressing for a new Sanctuary property in Rwanda.
A&K’s new tailor made and small group journey brochures are also expected shortly, with the company working to improve documentation and turnaround times as its booking systems are upgraded.
Cox & Kings relaunch gathers pace
The relaunch of Cox & Kings in Australia is delivering impressive results, with Patagonia emerging as its leading destination.
Established in 1758, the historic touring brand was acquired by A&K in 2019 and has now been relaunched with a refreshed identity and itineraries designed for experienced travellers seeking immersive experiences rather than luxury for luxury’s sake.
New itineraries for 2027 and 2028 include Central Europe, Central Asia and the Balkans, alongside options covering Algeria, Bhutan, Britain, Ireland and Canada.
Ms Haberle added that the company was also developing dedicated solo departures, capped at four passengers, to appeal to this growing market.
Agent incentives include a $100 gift card linked to qualifying new Cox & Kings bookings made before the end of January with the opportunity to go into a draw to win a $10,000 C&K travel voucher.
The company is also planning webinars to help advisors understand the itineraries and sell the product with confidence.
One lucky agent (above) didn’t have to wait to receive an amazing prize, walking off with a spot on an eight-night Crystal famil sailing from Rome to Athens in 2027.
For advisors, the broader message is clear: A&K is investing in its destination network, accommodation portfolio, touring range and trade infrastructure, while using education and incentives to help partners convert new opportunities into bookings.
Main image (l to r): Alexa Papoulias, Sales Director (NSW/ACT); Susan Haberle; Anoushka Kudav, Sales Director (NSW/NZ)
