Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) Travel Group is exploring the
possibility of going public within the next two years, according to a
report from The Telegraph. CEO Cristina Levis confirmed that discussions
with bankers about an initial public offering (IPO) have already begun,
with a potential timeline of 18 to 24 months.
Although A&K Travel Group is based in London and could consider
listing on the London Stock Exchange, Levis revealed that the company is
also evaluating the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). “The NYSE would be
more appealing as the company continues to expand in the U.S., in
addition to there being more analysts covering travel businesses in the
U.S.,” Levis said.
In July, the company secured a $500 million credit facility from
Citi. The funding will be used to expand A&K's owned assets, which
include destination management companies (DMCs), camps, lodges, and
riverboats.
A&K Travel Group’s portfolio includes Abercrombie & Kent and
Cox & Kings tour companies, luxury cruise line Crystal, lodge and
small-ship cruise operator Sanctuary Retreats, and Galapagos cruise
specialist Ecoventura.