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KDM aims to acquire 2 adventure cos in India, Nepal

Jyoti Koul - New Delhi

In a bid to expand its business in India through acquisitions, Kuoni Destination Management plans to strengthen its position further in the Indian market and is looking to acquire at least two 'adventure' companies in India and Nepal by the end of this year.

In an exclusive with Express TravelWorld, Rolf Schafroth, CEO of Destination Management, Switzerland, said, "Our top agenda is to grow in size and continue to be number one for which we plan to break into newer areas in places where we have a strong presence. The main agenda at Kuoni Destination Management (KDM) is to grow its network in India. Because of the high potential of the Indian market, we aim to open as many offices as possible here"

The company also plans to invest huge amounts in the Indian market. Schafroth adds, "We want to implement as many business ideas as possible and apply them to other countries as well after reviewing their success." Though there is a stronger push for investments in newer initiatives in Asia, KDM Swiss has plans to venture into markets like Australia, an office in Dubai extending up to cover the entire Middle East region, besides Egypt which is a big destination for Kuoni.

"So far, we have used local agents in these countries. But we want to have our own network now. South America is also our target for next year and are looking at it keenly," Schafroth added. Kuoni now plans to break into the incentive business in the US where it has distinct visibility. A major focus in the incentive business in the Europe and US markets will be on MICE while the leisure market in Asia will remain a key investment area.