![](https://traveltalkmag.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/scaled-shutterstock_1646386474.jpg)
Active small group tour operator, Explore Worldwide, will expand its business in Australia next month by opening a regional sales and operations office in Brisbane.
The new local presence will be headed up by former APT and Topdeck sales guru Ben Ittensohn, who has spent nearly five years heading up Explore Worldwide’s global sales efforts based at the company’s headquarters in the UK.
Now promoted to Regional Director for Australia and New Zealand, Ittensohn will return to Australia to take up his new role leading the company’s new local outfit.
Explore Worldwide is a sustainability focused tour operator and wholesaler specialising in active itineraries involving walking, cycling and hiking aimed at the adventurous 50-plus demographic. The company promotes more than 350 adventures in 100 countries, focusing on its hallmarks of small group touring and a commitment to sustainability.
Until now, the company has conducted its sale and marketing in Australia through its GSA partner, Adventure World, which will continue during a transition phase.
Ittensohn praised The Travel Corporation brand for its efforts, saying it has been an incredible partner for the past four years.
“We have now reached a point where taking direct ownership is needed to support our growth ambitions from these markets,” Ittensohn said.
“Adventure World and Explore have always been well-aligned in both our product offering and commitment to sustainability, so our partnership has been a strong one, and one that will continue beyond the exclusive representation ending.”
Explore Worldwide Managing Director, Michael Edwards, said he was excited to see the journey the company embarks on as it grows in Australia.
“There’s a really significant opportunity in the Australia and New Zealand market for authentic and sustainable small group travel, and Ben Ittensohn, with his track record of growing sales with agency partners globally, is the right person to lead our growth in the region,” Edwards said.