Qantas purchases majority share in Byron based TripADeal

The Australian airline has purchased a controlling stake in a local online travel agent in a deal which could see them completely take over in the next four years.

Australian airline Qantas has purchased a majority stake for an undisclosed amount in Byron Bay travel agency TripADeal.

This comes after the Byron based business was bought out by BGH Capital in 2020 who purchased a 55 per cent share.

Pre-Covid, TripADeal had an annual growth rate of more than 40 per cent and in the 12 months prior to the pandemic, bookings were in excess of $200 million. Monthly bookings are now significantly higher.

The full terms of the all-cash purchase are commercial in confidence.

The agreement also allows Qantas to acquire the remaining 49 per cent in the next four years at an agreed multiple of TripADeal’s bookings at the time.

Co-founder Norm Black said TripADeal was very proud to be partnering with the national carrier and confirmed the company’s headquarters would remain in Byron Bay, offering a range of jobs to Northern Rivers residents.

“We will remain a Northern Rivers company, with our heart firmly in Byron Bay,” Mr Black said.

“The growth of our company that will come from this partnership with Qantas is great news for the local community and jobs.

“We have also recently expanded operations with teams in the Gold Coast and Brisbane.”

The stake allows Qantas Loyalty to immediately expand its exposure to the estimated $13 billion online packaged holiday booking market.

Qantas Frequent Flyers can now earn and use their Points on TripADeal’s entire range of holiday packages.

TripADeal packages range from African Safaris, Japanese cultural tours, Antarctic expeditions, to Northern Territory glamping stays and Bali villa holidays.

All of these ready-made holidays can now be paid for with Qantas Points, regardless of which airline is part of the package.

Frequent Flyers will also earn three points for every $1 they spend with TripADeal, and can also use ‘points plus pay’ to make their holiday happen sooner.

Co-founder Richard Johnston said the agreement was positive economic news for Northern NSW at a time when it needs it the most.

“We are very proud to continue offering positions to skilled workers and contributing not just to the Byron Shire’s economic activity, but to the region’s economy,” Mr Johnston said.

“We remain the same company, an online travel agency offering bucket list deals at incredible prices, but now with a fantastic partnership with Qantas.

“This is great news for our customers, and that makes us very happy.”

Mr Johnston said the agreement showed regional businesses can be dynamic, competitive and successful.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce.Picture: Damian Shaw

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the partnership was “a great opportunity at the perfect time.”

“Coming out of the pandemic, people want a holiday experience that is special but also tried and tested, and there is a huge shift to booking online,” Mr Joyce said.

“That’s exactly what TripADeal does.

“It’s an Aussie success story built on delivering ready-made holidays at very sharp prices, and their level of repeat customers shows how well they do it.”