Radius Gears Up For Multinational Accounts

Calling itself "the world's largest travel management company," Radius yesterday announced the creation of a shareholder segment dedicated to serving multinational clients.

"All shareholders will continue to benefit" from Radius products and services, but 26 shareholders around the world who make an additional financial commitment "will target the networked accounts of corporate clients seeking to consolidate their choice of travel management company on a multinational, regional or global basis, " according to a Radius statement.

Members of the Business Development group, which in the Unites States include Northwestern Travel Management, Travel & Transport and TraveLeaders, will establish common systems in terms of functionality, if not platform. "To mandate a common platform around the world is not practical, but this is about the ability to address common functions," said Radius president and CEO Tony Hughes. Commonality on reporting standards is one goal, and other facets reflect operational and service commitments.

Shareholders also will recruit a global sales team. "We also do have some preferred suppliers, and will move forward to look at best-in-class business practices," added Hughes, who noted the Business Development shareholders will meet next week to iron out additional details following about a year of talks.