Barlow: Helloworld Acquires Barlow Travel Group in NZ Expansion
Deal News | Apr 10, 2025 | EIN
Helloworld Travel Limited, a prominent player in the corporate and event travel sector, has acquired Barlow Travel Group (BTG), a New Zealand-based company trading under the brand BCD Travel. The acquisition, which includes buying out existing shareholders such as the company's founder Peter Barlow and Director Ross Jamieson, was completed using Helloworld's cash reserves. The company anticipates an increase in profits by FY2025 resulting from this strategic purchase. BTG has been a member of Helloworld's associate network for seven years, underlining a long-standing business relationship. The transaction valued BTG at approximately six times its 2023 EBITDA. While Helloworld expects this acquisition to significantly bolster its service delivery capabilities, technological access, and content across New Zealand, Barlow and Jamieson are set to remain as executive directors to ensure a seamless transition. The move, as per Helloworld CEO Andrew Burnes, underscores the company’s strategic expansion within the trans-Tasman market.
Sectors
- Travel and Tourism
- Mergers and Acquisitions
Geography
- New Zealand – The target company, Barlow Travel Group, is based in New Zealand and has been integrated into Helloworld's operations.
- Australia – Helloworld Travel Limited, the acquiring company, is based in Australia, reflecting cross-country strategic business movements.
Industry
- Travel and Tourism – This article involves companies operating in the travel and tourism industry, specifically focusing on corporate and event travel services.
- Mergers and Acquisitions – The central theme of the article is the acquisition of Barlow Travel Group by Helloworld, marking a significant transaction in corporate expansions.
Financials
- Six times 2023 EBITDA – Valuation of Barlow Travel Group acquisition by Helloworld.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Helloworld Travel Limited | Bidding Company | Company | An Australian-based corporate and event travel company acquiring Barlow Travel Group. |
| Barlow Travel Group | Target Company | Company | A New Zealand-based travel company, trading as BCD Travel, acquired by Helloworld. |
| Peter Barlow | Executive Director | Person | Founder and Managing Director of Barlow Travel Group, remaining as Executive Director post-acquisition. |
| Ross Jamieson | Executive Director | Person | Director at Barlow Travel Group, remaining as Executive Director post-acquisition. |
| Andrew Burnes | CEO & Managing Director | Person | CEO & Managing Director of Helloworld Travel Limited. |
| BCD Travel | Other Company | Company | Netherlands-based corporate travel company, whose brand is licensed to Barlow Travel Group. |