Ensemble Travel Group will close its Australia and New Zealand business next month, as the company scrambles to stay afloat during the COVID-19 crisis.
The company’s general manager for the trans-Tasman, Katy Muyt, confirmed the closure of its Sydney office in a statement to Travel Weekly over the weekend.
“Due to the unforeseen travel downturn our industry is currently experiencing across the globe with the coronavirus, Ensemble Inc. in North America has decided to pull out of the ANZ market, effective 1st May 2020, she said.
“We will be working closely with our network over the course of the next few weeks to provide a smooth transition during this difficult time.
“Further communication will also be provided offering assistance to our members post-1st May for any bookings made using one of our preferred Ensemble hotels, wholesalers, cruise suppliers, or global DMCs.”
Muyt said she will stay on as GM of Ensemble’s Australia and New Zealand division until the end of May to manage the closure and support its network.
Ensemble works with 15 different travel agencies across Australia, including TravelManagers and CT Partners.
Established in 1968 as a dedicated alliance of US agencies, Ensemble expanded into Canada in 1984 before setting up shop in Australia and New Zealand with a Sydney office in 2015.
The company helps consumers connect with agents and offers agency members things such as unique consumer vacation products, marketing programs and technology solutions.
In September 2019, Ensemble president Libby Rice left the group after almost nine years.
Featured image credit: iStock/urbancow
