Celebrating one year since CTM acquisition

Every year 1000 Mile Travel Group CEOs say it’s going to be our biggest year yet and this year really was, marking the one-year anniversary of the group’s acquisition by Corporate Travel Management (CTM) and the journey achieved within the milestone year since the CTM acquisition.

With this in mind, it is an opportune time to reflect on and celebrate the key milestones that solidified 1000MTG’s position as a leading global network of independent travel advisors (host agency). Over the past year, 1000MTG has demonstrated its commitment to excellence through technological advancements, international expansion, strategic talent acquisitions, and the creation of unforgettable travel experiences. Read on to find out about the milestone year since the CTM acquisition!

Globalization and Regional Expansion

In September 2022, 1000MTG achieved a significant milestone by becoming one of the first host travel agencies to go global. Backed by the power of CTM, this breakthrough opened new doors for the company, establishing its presence in key markets worldwide and strengthening its global network. To ensure tailored services and effective regional management, 1000MTG appointed General Managers Lauren Gray (Aus), Christy Shafer (NA), and Alex Locke (UK) to its team with Craig Constable stepping into the role of Global Chief Operating Officer.

“This strategic move has empowered us to deliver unparalleled customer service and enhanced our ability to support and empower our independent Travel Advisors locally in each market while being part of a global network. This enables us to cater to clients’ unique needs across different markets while leveraging the knowledge and expertise of our local leaders and teams who provide on-ground support through new business, technology, and inductions,” Nicola Veltman, Co-founder and CEO.

 

Marketing and Rebranding Transformation

With a strong focus on enhancing brand awareness across global markets, 1000MTG welcomed Mahala Summers as Global Marketing Manager, with an ambitious mission to deliver a unique global rebrand in under three months. The company successfully revamped its website, social media platforms, and network communications providing travel advisors and clients with an enhanced digital experience while showcasing its commitment to innovation. In North America, Karen Cantor and her team embraced the challenge of reshaping MTravel into 1000MTG while preserving the agency’s long-standing legacy and reputation.

Growth and Increased Support

The North American branch of 1000MTG experienced remarkable growth with the addition of talented professionals including Rondah Delos Reyes, Diana Duran, and Melissa Truskett, who brought their expertise and passion for the travel industry to its ranks to support our ICs through their onboarding and business performance management.

Australian Expansion and Luxury Travel

In Australia, 1000MTG strengthened the brand’s local presence and expertise by welcoming Natalie Higham, and Chelsea Keating, to focus on recruiting, onboarding, and assisting new experts to grow their business during their first 12 months. Morgan Davies was also recruited to onboard and support new and existing travel expert customers, ensuring an enhanced user experience for all. Notably, the company’s achievement of becoming a Virtuoso member has positioned it as a trusted provider of luxury travel experiences in the Australian market. Clients can now enjoy exclusive benefits and elevated services at renowned luxury properties.

“On a global scale, we harness the power of our alliances with suppliers and partners, including but not limited to Virtuoso, with a significant focus this year on globalizing our luxury partners. This approach has solidified our reputation as a customer-centric organization, emphasizing our commitment to both local support and global collaboration,” said Veltman.

Technological Advancements

Always at the forefront of innovation, 1000MTG has prioritized technological advancements to enhance the independent travel advisor experience. In North America, the introduction of Sabre Red and Tramada has streamlined the booking process and improved operational efficiency and reporting transparency to enhance the ability for 1000MTG advisors to run their business. And in the United Kingdom, the company successfully implemented a new suite of systems, Protas and Sabre, a new client-facing single sign-on portal, and Lightning online booking tool, fostering greater efficiency and superior booking experiences.

New Luxury Hotel Programs and Global Conference

Recognizing the importance of providing exceptional accommodation options, 1000MTG established new luxury hotel programs in North America. These partnerships offer clients exclusive benefits and elevated services at renowned luxury properties worldwide. As a testament to their commitment to collaboration, 1000MTG hosted a global conference in Hawaii in February 2023 bringing together industry leaders, travel experts, partners, and suppliers to exchange ideas, discuss emerging trends, and further enhance the company’s global network.

Reflecting on this milestone, CEO and Co-founder Ben Ross expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future: “Over the past year, we have witnessed tremendous growth and development as part of the CTM family. We are proud of the milestones we have achieved and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Our commitment to innovation and delivering unparalleled service and support to our travel advisor network and their clients remains at the core of everything we do.

“We are grateful to our dedicated team members and loyal advisors who have contributed to the success of 1000 Mile Travel Group. We look forward to continuing our journey together and shaping the future of travel management for many years to come.”