Effective immediately, VOSAIO Travel Group will move forward in Australia and New Zealand under the well-established Operation Europe brand, combining the strengths of both organisations to deliver an even greater range of group travel services to the market.
This announcement follows the news that on 30 October 2024, VOSAIO Travel Group’s acquisition of Operation Europe, one of the most respected special interest tour operators in the market, was completed.
This strategic decision will leverage the combined expertise of VOSAIO Travel Group and Operation Europe, ensuring the continued delivery of premium quality and seamless travel experiences with competitive pricing.
By uniting the two brands, B2B group travel partners will benefit with enhanced service delivery while maintaining the core values and personalised approach that Operation Europe is known for, particularly in relation to special interest itineraries.
Carly Allen based in Australia and Sofia Rodriguez Rytkonen based in New Zealand will collectively support the market with a personalised approach to our tour operator and wholesale partners. Both bring extensive group travel experience and a commitment to maintaining the high standards that have defined Operation Europe.
Over the past 36 years, Operation Europe has built a stellar reputation in the industry for its detail-oriented, personalised approach to itinerary planning and service delivery.
Known for its ability to design tailored group itineraries across a variety of segments—from leisure to complex special interest small groups, pre/post-cruise tours, bespoke group shore excursions, sports and educational tours, as well as larger MICE groups—Operation Europe covers all bases, ensuring clients’ needs are met with care and precision.
In addition to continuing Operation Europe’s legacy of excellence, VOSAIO Travel Group will enhance the offering by utilising its innovative technology, including a cutting-edge tour guide app and a bespoke operating system. These technological tools will enable us to provide even more efficient, seamless service and deliver an exceptional experience to our tour operator and wholesale partners.
“We are thrilled to combine the strength of both VOSAIO Travel Group and Operation Europe to create an even stronger proposition in Australia and New Zealand,” said Martin Knuepfer, CEO of VOSAIO Travel Group. “We are committed to delivering an outstanding, seamless experience to our clients throughout 2025 and beyond, and we look forward to the opportunities this exciting next step will bring.”
Tom Barrett and Jeremy Hawes, founders of Operation Europe, remain actively involved in the business sharing their wealth of experience and ensuring continuity with relationships and service delivery. Tom and Jeremy have shared, “This acquisition marks a new chapter for us as we embark on a journey filled with enhanced resources and opportunities to elevate travel experience to our valued customers. Together with Vosaio Travel Group, we’re committed to innovation and growth. Thank you for your continued support!”
VOSAIO Travel Group and Operation Europe’s shared vision of excellence ensures that we are perfectly positioned to meet the evolving needs of the travel market, delivering a premium experience that continues to raise the bar in the industry.