Helloworld Limited, an Australian travel distribution company, has agreed on terms to acquire up to 10 retail travel stores from Air New Zealand ahead of the brand launch in NZ in 2016.
Helloworld already operates 90 stores in NZ divided equally between the Harvey World Travel and United Travel brands.
According to its CEO, Elizabeth Gaines, Helloworld has a strong presence in NZ, with over 90 agents currently operating under the Harvey World Travel and United Travel brands.
Prior to this the company tried but failed to rebrand them all Helloworld outlets after United Travel franchisees voted earlier this year not to adopt the new branding.
Uncertainty still remains over how many stores will feature Helloworld branding when the brand is introduced to NZ.
According to Helloworld’s NZ CEO, Greg Leighton, Helloworld is working with all current franchisees from the Harvey World Travel and United networks on the launch of helloworld.
“We have the full support of the Harvey World Travel franchisees to the rebranding and launch and are continuing our discussions with each United franchisee on a case-by-case basis.”
Gaines said the acquisition would support the strategic growth of Helloworld’s operations in NZ.
“The intended acquisition of up to 10 retail travel stores from Air NZ would expand our geographical footprint, add strength to our existing networks and would assist in building the critical mass from which to launch the Helloworld brand in New Zealand,” she pointed out.
“The opportunity to transition to a unified Helloworld brand will deliver a consolidated share of voice for our agents, as well as economies of scale for the business.”
