U.S.-based World Travel and U.K.-based Clarity Business Travel have created a joint venture, One Global, as an alliance of travel management companies that can serve global corporate clients.
One Global, which has 50-50 ownership by World Travel and Clarity, was created to expand on the existing partnership between the two TMCs, according to the companies. While the announcement did not list specific members, it said it includes "fully managed solutions" in Europe, South America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Australasia.
"On a global basis, we service our clients with global expertise, supported by global account management and powered by single platform technology, data and duty of care," according to Clarity CEO and One Global chair Pat McDonagh. "In addition, we also have access to richer content by adding local market content from our partners across the globe."
The companies brought on former Radius Travel global sales director Jodie Gentles as general manager. She described it as "similar to airline alliances, where the best-in-market carriers provide seamless transport throughout the world."
"I know this will resonate with customers who are tired of a lack of consistency in the network models and feel undervalued by the global mega agencies," she added in a statement.
World Travel EVP of business development Mike Farrell told Travel Weekly that the venture would target small and medium-sized companies with global footprints, similar to World Travel's own focus over its history.