Kuoni Acquires Belgium Tour Operator Best Tours

Kuoni is expanding its business in the Belgium market substantially. As of 31 December 2010 Kuoni took over the business activities (asset deal) of Belgium tour operator Best Tours. The company is currently in liquidation. Best Tours posted turnover of EUR 38 million in the business year 2009/10. The parties agreed not to divulge the purchase prices involved. Best Tours specializes in long-haul round trips and beach holidays.

Best Tours was founded 1981 with its headquarters in Brussels and has 35 full-time employees. Best Tours is one of the leading tour operators specialized in travel to Thailand, China, Vietnam, South Africa and Egypt. The brand offers escorted cultural round trips, beach holidays and individual trips in the premium segment in the Belgium market as well as partly in the French market.

The Best Tours brand will be retained. The brand will join the Kuoni Benelux unit within the Division Market Region North.

“With the acquisition of Best Tours' travel activities Kuoni takes an important step forward in the Belgium market to reach relevant size for further business”, said Peter Rothwell, CEO of the Kuoni Group.