Travelport announces 'game-changing' acquisition of corporate platform Deem

GDS says the deal will enable it to provide travel agents with tools that are as 'revolutionary and modern' as its next-gen marketplace Travelport+

Travelport has described the acquisition of corporate travel management platform Deem as “game-changing” as the GDS seeks to modernise travel retailing. 

The deal, announced last week for an undisclosed sum, builds on Travelport’s launch of its next-generation travel retailing marketplace Travelport+.

Greg Webb, chief executive of Travelport, said the acquisition underlines the firm’s commitment to continue investing in innovation. 

“The game-changing acquisition of Deem by Travelport will fulfill a growing, post-pandemic need for a tight, fully-integrated corporate tool that will provide access to all multi-source content, including NDC,” he said. 

“We’ve been laser-focused on investing in technology innovation, and Travelport+ has simplified the agency workflow, upgraded how travel content is curated, and enabled modern travel retailing. 

“Now with the acquisition of Deem, Travelport will provide corporate travel with award-winning, complementary tools that are as revolutionary, modern, and easy-to-use as Travelport+.”

Previously owned by Enterprise Holdings, Deem was named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies of 2022.

It has developed a suite of online booking and travel technology products for business travellers, travel managers, travel-management companies and suppliers. 

Travelport said Deem has continued to grow its share of the corporate travel business, and the investment will further accelerate growth on a global scale.

“Deem is pleased to be joining the Travelport family,” said David Grace, president of Deem. 

“We are proud of the growth and success Deem has achieved in recent years. The acquisition by Travelport will enable a strong future of global growth for Deem and help accelerate the delivery of travel management solutions in a rapidly evolving industry. 

“We want to express our sincere appreciation to our customers, as well as recognize the hard work and dedication of our Deem team members.”

Travelport plans to complete a swift integration of its NDC capabilities giving Deem access to what it says is critical content for travel agencies, corporations, and travellers, particularly in North America where airlines are beginning to shift some content exclusively to NDC. 

“We are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for Deem employees, partners, and customers, and look forward to welcoming them to Travelport,” said Webb. 

“Having a one-stop source for all content on a single corporate tool has been the main goal of our customers for a long time. Together with the Deem team, Travelport will deliver that.”