Helloworld Travel Group (HLO) will purchase a minority stake in high-profile, retail travel brand Phil Hoffmann Travel (PHT).
The Helloworld move comes as PHT company founder and current Managing Director Phil Hoffmann moves into semi-retirement.
With over 45 years of professional service in the travel industry, Hoffmann will step into the position of Executive Director.
“The opportunities, travel and partnerships, along with many cherished friendships created along the way, have ensured that I will have nothing but proud memories,” he said.
“I see this new formal partnership between Helloworld and Phil Hoffmann Travel as an exciting opportunity for our respected brand, which will ensure our clients and our much-valued team are in great hands moving forward.”
Consequently, current Director and CEO, Peter Williams, will take on the role of Managing Director and CEO of Adelaide-based PHT.
Williams is the major shareholder of PHT and Chairman of the board, which will also comprise Hoffmann and two HLO representatives.
“We see this strategic partnership as the perfect opportunity to invest in the unlocked potential of Phil Hoffmann Travel and support our vision of growth and expansion, whilst providing our team with an exciting future, and supporting Phil’s transition into a well-deserved retirement after an amazing impact on our industry,” Williams remarked.
“Extraordinary travel professionals”
Helloworld Travel Limited CEO and Managing Director Andrew Burnes AO called PHT “one of the most iconic brands in retail and corporate travel for many years and throughout that time have supported Helloworld as part of our Associate network and through our Viva Holidays, Sunlover Holidays, CruiseCo and Ready Rooms wholesale operations”.
“Both Phil Hoffman and Peter Williams are extraordinary travel professionals and have a vast knowledge of leisure and corporate travel customers in South Australia,” he added.
“We have been closely involved with them over many years and are looking forward to an even closer involvement through our stake in the business.”
Employing around 150 staff in nine offices across South Australia, PHT specialises in retail, cruise, corporate, groups and also events.
Earlier this year, HLO reported a $15.6 million profit before tax in its interim financial results for the first half of the 2022/23 financial year (1H 2023).
Read our interview with Helloworld Rochedale owner Tina Pizzoni.
