Founded in 1969, Best Travel is a thriving Chicago agency specializing in corporate, leisure/luxury and group travel. With sales volume totaling $207 Million, Best Travel is ranked in the top one percent of all Travel Management Companies in North America, and has earned a reputation for exceptional customer service across the region. Guy Bernacchi, CEO of Best Travel comments, “We were thrilled to see that our companies embrace the same unique management philosophy. We leverage globally, structure regionally, and manage locally. I strongly believe this is a key compatibility.” Bernacchi adds, “For our clients, becoming part of Direct Travel reinforces our unrelenting commitment to quality, service and value that has characterized our agency and people for over 45 years.”
“This move substantiates our sheer determination to drive our expansion efforts through strong, strategic acquisitions, complementing our overall mission to focus on the middle market customer,” said Ed Adams, CEO of Direct Travel.
Lisa Buckner, Direct Travel Regional President comments, “Our cultures are well aligned around strong business results and a client-centric focus that emphasizes traveler satisfaction as one of the most important indicators of our success.” Buckner adds, “We were drawn to Best Travel because of their strong value proposition, impeccable reputation and employee empowerment that characterizes their agency today. We are delighted to welcome the Best Travel team into the Direct Travel Family.”
Judy Anglada, Executive Vice President of Operations and Technology for Best Travel, will assume the role of President at Best Travel following the transition.