Ker & Downey Africa DMC expand into emerging markets in Russia & Eastern Europe

Luxury destination management company, Ker & Downey Africa DMC is expanding into emerging markets with its new Russia & Eastern Europe division. Leading the division is USSR native, Irina Jordaan. “With the tourism sector being one of the most heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are incredibly proud of our resilient team for weathering the storm and continuing to drive business to Africa under the Ker & Downey Africa brand. A large part of our success in this challenging time is due to the existing geographic spread of our source markets and a resolute focus on the luxury traveler,” says Lee Kelsall, CEO of the Ker & Downey Africa Group.

Currently, the super-luxury destination management company services top boutique agencies and luxury tour operators in several markets across the globe including North America, Latin America, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, China and Hong Kong and is now setting its sights on Russia and Eastern Europe. The divisions specialise in tailor-made travel to Southern Africa, East Africa and Indian Ocean island destinations such as Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique and Madagascar.

“As we enter a new phase of tourism recovery, we see great scope for growth in emerging markets and have set our sights on the Russian and Eastern European markets,” says Kelsall.

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), prior to the pandemic, the Russian Federation was one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets. In a study by the RMAA Group, Russia’s expenditure on international travel grew by 16% in 2018, maintaining 8th position in the world. “We are thrilled to welcome Irina Jordaan to the Group who brings first-hand insight into the needs of Russian travel agents operating in the luxury market, as well as the demands of their valued clients,” says Kelsall.

The Russia & Eastern Europe division is set to leverage the brand’s reputation in the luxury market, working with the most discerning travel agencies and boutique tour operators in Russia & Eastern Europe and providing the latest product knowledge and dedicated training to their select partners.

“The Russian and Eastern European markets are rapidly growing and an increasing number of luxury travel agencies and concierge services have opened to cater to the demands of high net worth individuals. This emerging market is hungry to explore new destinations with a desire for experiential travel that is tailored to their specific needs. Ker & Downey Africa’s vast experience serves as the perfect match for the emerging markets who might require more guidance when planning the perfect holiday to Africa,” says Irina Jordaan, General Manager, Russia & Eastern Europe.

Jordaan is based on the ground in Cape Town and has over 15 years in the luxury travel industry.

Tags: Ker & Downey Africa DMC