OREANDA-NEWS. dnata announced today it has received regulatory approval of its purchase of the entire issued share capital of Stella Travel Services.

The purchase includes Stella Travel Services' five brands: TravelBag, Travel2, Sunmaster, Global Travel Group and Triton Rooms. The five brands will become part of the dnata Travel portfolio, which includes Gold Medal Travel Group, and Travel Republic, and additional investments in Hogg Robinson Group, and Mindpearl Group.

"As dnata's travel business continues to grow, we look for opportunities to build our expertise, and strengthen our offering to customers, and Stella Travel Services does both," said Iain Andrew, Divisional Senior Vice President of dnata's travel business. "Stella, and its leadership team, have a deep understanding of the local market and will support the continued growth of the long-haul travel out of the UK."

Iain Andrew, Divisional Senior Vice President, dnata's Travel Business

Based in Chester, UK, Stella Travel Services and its brands cover key segments of the UK-travel market with its retail, franchise, wholesale, online and call centre capabilities. Last year, the UAE was the company's most popular selling destination. The partnership with dnata-and Stella's experience driving business and leisure travel to the UAE-will boost the tourism industry in the region, and improve dnata's total purchasing power.

"Though dnata has grown into a global company, our roots are firmly based in Dubai," added Andrew. "Stella Travel Services is a significant contributor to inbound tourism to the UAE and the partnership between the two companies will help build both Dubai and the region's reputation as a premier travel destination."

The acquisition is effective from 14th October 2014, with no interruption to the services offered by Stella Travel Services. The business will continue under the Stella Travel Services branding.

Stella Travel Services is the trading name for Stella Global UK Limited, STS UK Holdco II Limited and a number of associated subsidiaries.