Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) has announced its intention to integrate Nature Trails, a subsidiary of Sterling Holiday Resorts, into its domestic travel portfolio. The move aligns with TCIL’s strategy to cater to the growing demand for adventure holidays, educational trips, and corporate getaways in India. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals, with the transaction value not exceeding ₹600 million.
Nature Trails operates retreats in scenic locations near Mumbai, offering a diverse range of curated outdoor experiences. Its services are spread across three key categories:
The brand has gained popularity among young and adventure-seeking travellers, a demographic that Thomas Cook India sees as a significant driver of growth.
Over the years, travel preferences in India have evolved significantly, with a growing number of travellers seeking authentic, local, and experience-driven tourism. Thomas Cook’s data indicates a younger customer base compared to a decade ago, influenced by social media and real-time experience sharing.
By integrating Nature Trails, Thomas Cook India aims to capitalise on this shift and expand its domestic leisure travel offerings. The acquisition will enable seamless operations, with Nature Trails continuing under the asset-light model while leveraging Thomas Cook’s strong retail and digital distribution network.
The Nature Trails business will be integrated into Thomas Cook India’s operations through a slump sale, a method where a business is transferred as a going concern without individual asset valuation. The transaction is being undertaken at arm’s length and is expected to be completed within 60 days.
Key financial details:
As Nature Trails is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sterling Holiday Resorts, which in turn is owned by Thomas Cook India, this transaction falls within the category of a related party transaction.
The share price of Thomas Cook opened at ₹157 on the NSE, which was also the intraday high as of 10:03 AM on February 4, 2025.
Established in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited is a leading omnichannel travel services company offering a diverse range of travel and financial solutions. The company operates across multiple verticals, including foreign exchange, corporate travel, leisure travel, visa services, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
The Thomas Cook India Group has a strong presence in 28 countries across five continents and operates well-known travel brands such as SOTC, TCI, Sterling Holiday Resorts, and Travel Corporation India.
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, holds a 63.83% stake in Thomas Cook India.
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Published on: Feb 4, 2025, 2:20 PM IST
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