The group said the move, which comes less than a year after AKTG secured £500 million in funding to support its global expansion, was a significant step in its European growth strategy. It means agents in Ireland can now sell the group’s core Abercrombie & Kent, Cox & Kings and Crystal cruise product.
"Ireland has long been a key market for us, and this allows us to meet growing demand with the confidence and assurance Irish travellers expect,” said Jennifer Charlton, managing director of Cox & Kings and senior vice-president of sales for A&K UK and EMEA.
"From safari to expedition cruising, tailor-made journeys to cultural discovery, this launch brings Cox & Kings, Crystal and A&K’s legendary service and deep destination knowledge directly to the Irish market."
Granted by the Irish Aviation Authority, the approval also allows AKTG to access point-of-sale air and cruise fares originating from Dublin, which in turn enables it to offer preferential air rates and enhanced commercial terms in partnership with leading airlines.
AKTG also plans to introduce a dedicated point of contact to support its expansion into Ireland, having already appointed agency sales manager Victoria Houston to oversee trade sales in the region.
New local telephone lines and Euro-denominated pricing are live for Crystal, with A&K and Cox & Kings pricing to follow shortly.
