Tour Operator (inbound travel to the Netherlands)

Company history/background

Founded in 1979 as a Dutch company (vennootschap onder firma), the two current owners/directors joined as partners (vennoten) in 1989 and 1995 respectively. Since 2010 the company is registered abroad where the current owners reside most of the year. 

Company activities

The company develops and organises programs around specific themes (Special Interest Tours) and also for the ever expanding River Cruise market in both the Netherlands and Belgium. Clientele consists of tour operators, travel agents, river cruise companies, corporations and non-profit organisations (e.g. musea, universities) located in the United States and European countries. The company does not sell to individuals but primarily to companies and organisations needing assistance with the delivery of these types of services.

Unique selling points

Since 1995, when the current owners/directors have been working in the company, the aim has been to increase production and income without increasing liabilities with future commitments connected to these (such as hiring personnel, purchasing office space, etc). Instead, investments have been made continually, focusing on improved operational systems. This has/ has had the proven advantage that the company has been able to adjust swiftly to changing circumstances in the world of tourism. In turn, this has resulted in a stable and reputable business.

Because the directors have been working in the company for a combined period of 60 years, a vast know-how has been built up covering different areas: from products and network of contacts, to production processes.

Other

Motive for Sale

The business has seen a steady growth since 1995 while being run by two persons. To continue to be able to keep up with the growing demand, the company will need to change its current operational set-up (e.g. employ personnel). Current owners are reaching the age to start thinking about transferring the company and feel that now is the right time to sell.

Motive for Buying

For someone who wants to continue to deliver the company’s products and is interested in continuing the current level of production and to continue its growth, this is the right time to buy. The buyer, who may be based in the Netherlands but just as well abroad, will receive all professional support from the current owners to get the business handed over properly.