A groundbreaking use of augmented reality has persuaded a prominent travel company to relocate its base to Manchester.
The merger of Key Travel and Raptim Humanitarian Travel, resulting in the world’s largest travel management company for the academic, humanitarian, and faith sectors, has prompted the move.
Innovative Use of Augmented Reality
The relocation to Manchester by Key Travel has been significantly influenced by the innovative application of augmented reality (AR). Bruntwood, the property company, utilised projection mapping and AR to showcase their refurbished ninth-floor suite at St James’ building on Oxford Road. This was achieved through a bespoke app that provided potential clients with an immersive viewing experience.
The unique AR experience animated the space, illustrating its potential and helping the travel giant envision the operational possibilities. The ability to interact with the space virtually offered a unique perspective that traditional viewing methods could not achieve.
A Strategic Merger
Key Travel, which recently merged with Raptim Humanitarian Travel, has formed the world’s largest travel management company exclusively focusing on the academic, humanitarian, and faith sectors. The combined entity boasts over 500 employees across ten countries and annual sales exceeding £350 million.
This strategic merger not only expands their global footprint but also consolidates their operations. The relocation to Manchester signifies their commitment to the city, positioning it as the nucleus of their expanding operations. It reflects Manchester’s appeal as a dynamic business hub.
The Significance of St James’ Building
The ninth floor of St James’ building offers a unique environment within Manchester.
This space is a spacious, dynamic open-plan setting within a period property that features contemporary amenities. It provides excellent connectivity and access to a vibrant community of pioneering organisations.
The building’s allure is further enhanced by its historical significance and modern facilities. This blend of old and new offers an ideal workspace that meets both operational and aesthetic needs.
Leadership Views on the Move
Senior asset manager at Bruntwood Works, Adam Selka, expressed his views on the innovative AR application and its impact on the suite’s appeal. He stated, “Following our work to regenerate the suite, we harnessed technology in the form of an AR experience to animate the space and show its potential to viewers. But there’s nothing quite like seeing a company move into a new suite and bring it to life by putting their own stamp on the space.”
Similarly, John O Sullivan, managing director for Key Travel in the UK, emphasised the importance of their Manchester office. He noted, “Although we continue to grow our company globally, our Manchester office has always been and will continue to be the heart of our operations. The move to St. James’ will reinforce our presence in the city whilst perfectly accommodating our objectives for future growth and providing a great working environment for our people.”
Key Travel’s Global Reach
Key Travel’s establishment in 1980 marked the beginning of its extensive global journey. With over 1,900 clients in 54 countries, the company has grown to offer a comprehensive range of travel support services.
These services include visa applications, passport renewals, risk management, and rail and hotel booking and management. The company’s extensive experience and diversified service portfolio have made it a leader in the travel management sector.
The company’s robust infrastructure and commitment to client satisfaction are evident in its ability to cater to a broad spectrum of needs, ensuring seamless travel experiences worldwide.
Manchester as a Business Hub
The decision to base their operations in Manchester is a testament to the city’s growing influence as a business hub. Manchester offers an attractive environment for both established enterprises and startups.
The city provides excellent connectivity, a vibrant business community, and a supportive ecosystem that fosters innovation and growth. These factors make it an ideal location for a company looking to expand its operations and integrate into a dynamic business landscape.
Manchester’s strategic location and rich industrial history further enhance its appeal, making it a prime choice for businesses aiming for both growth and stability.
Conclusion of an Era, Beginning of Another
The relocation of Key Travel’s base to Manchester marks both an end and a new beginning for the company.
Embracing innovative technologies like AR has not only facilitated their move but also set a precedent for future relocations and expansions. This strategic shift underscores the company’s commitment to growth and modernisation.
The innovative use of augmented reality has proven to be a decisive factor in Key Travel’s relocation to Manchester.
This move signifies a new chapter for the company, bolstered by the strategic merger and the city’s dynamic business environment.