Fred Olsen Travel’s recent acquisition of Solent World Travel marks a notable expansion in its retail network, now spanning 21 shops.
- Solent World Travel, located in Lee-on-Solent, has been a stable presence in the community for 34 years, offering consistent service under various ownerships.
- The acquisition includes the transition and retention of key staff members, ensuring business continuity and local knowledge.
- Chris Dewey, the esteemed manager, is set to retire, leaving behind a legacy of 44 years in the travel industry.
- The strategic acquisition aligns with Fred Olsen Travel’s demographic and service goals, promising growth and community engagement.
Fred Olsen Travel’s acquisition of Solent World Travel is a strategic move, expanding its retail presence to 21 locations. This acquisition is part of Fred Olsen’s ongoing effort to enhance its geographical reach and connect with a broader customer base. Solent World Travel, a mainstay in Lee-on-Solent, has maintained a significant presence through various brand iterations.
Established in the same Hampshire seaside location for over three decades, Solent World Travel has been known for its dedicated customer service. The agency’s acquisition by Fred Olsen Travel is seamless, as the company will retain Solent’s well-trained staff, preserving the bespoke services that clients have come to expect over the years.
Chris Dewey, the respected manager who has been with Solent World Travel since its inception, is retiring after a remarkable career spanning 44 years. His departure marks the end of an era, yet provides an opportunity for new leadership to emerge from within the ranks, ensuring continuity and fresh perspectives.
The decision by Advantage Travel Partnership to sell the agency aligns with their strategy to support members rather than directly operating shops. This transition is seen as mutually beneficial, providing Solent staff with opportunities under a familiar yet new corporate umbrella. Advantage Travel’s chief executive, Julia Lo Bue-Said, noted the cultural and strategic fit that Fred Olsen offers, which supports the team’s future aspirations.
Paul Hardwick, Fred Olsen’s director of retail, expressed his eagerness to build on the longstanding legacy of service that Solent World Travel embodies. He sees this acquisition as an avenue to foster community relations and uphold the high standards of travel services that are synonymous with both organisations.
This acquisition fortifies Fred Olsen Travel’s retail position while honouring Solent World Travel’s legacy.
