Expedia sells specialist ticketing and distribution platform SilverRail back to its management

Expedia sells specialist ticketing and distribution platform SilverRail back to its management

The global travel giant had taken a controlling stake in the rail tech firm in 2017

Expedia will retain an interest in rail ticketing and distribution platform SilverRail having sold it back to its founder and management.

The specialist travel technology firms, which Expedia took a majority stake in in 2017, says its business has evolved to become more focussed on its suppliers’ direct distribution.

However, Expedia retains an interest in the firm and has an ongoing partnership through its Egencia global travel management company.

The sale of SilverRail back to management, including founder and chief executive Aron Gowell was completed on October 2, it was reported this week.

Expedia said the deal will enable SilverRail to operate as an independent entity “with renewed focus on a carrier-centric business strategy”.

Gowell said: “We have evolved and matured greatly within the Expedia Group family of brands.

“We have also grown into a business largely focused on our rail carrier partners, building products for their direct retail needs as well as third-party distribution.

“We are excited about the growth of rail as a sustainable travel choice and looking forward to building on our success in this sector.”