Great Rail Journeys, the world’s leading provider of escorted and independent rail vacations, acquired Vacations by Rail in the United States. The new combined business allows one organization to offer a huge portfolio of itineraries in the escorted and independent markets.
Vacations by Rail was established in Chicago in 2004. Since then, the company has offered North American travelers a number of itineraries to make the most of the unique geography of the continent. Specifically, the company offered expertise in national park tourism.
Before the acquisition, Great Rail Journeys offered nearly 400 itineraries in more than 50 countries worldwide. A wide array of product offerings, from river cruises to small group tours, places Great Rail Journeys in a uniquely ambitious place as it begins to work with Vacations by Rail.
“We are thrilled to welcome VBR to the GRJ family” said Peter Liney, CEO, Great Rail Journeys. “This acquisition is the first step of many as we look to enhance our position as the world’s leading provider of rail vacations.”
Todd Powell and Cole Dannewitz, officials, Vacations by Rail are already set to join the new company’s executive team. Heather Leisman, president of North America, Great Rail Journeys, will assume North American leadership in the new organization.
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