Cox & Kings, the world’s oldest travel company with roots tracing back to 1758, is embarking on a new era of international growth under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG). This strategic expansion marks a deliberate step by Cox & Kings to draw on its rich heritage, bringing a thoughtfully curated collection of extraordinary travel experiences to key markets, including the United States and Australia.
The move will be spearheaded by Jennifer Charlton, newly appointed Managing Director of Cox & Kings. With over 30 years of experience in the travel sector, Charlton is well-positioned to lead the company’s strategic global rollout. She will continue to serve as Senior Vice President of Sales and Business Development for the UK and EMEA, leveraging her leadership background in sales, business development and global partnerships at leading companies like KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, CWT and Amex GBT.
“I am honored to lead Cox & Kings into this new chapter of global expansion,” said Charlton. “We are building upon our strong foundation and leveraging the extensive network and expertise of AKTG to offer unparalleled travel experiences. I am eager to introduce Cox & Kings to new markets and showcase our unique approach to travel, which seamlessly blends its rich heritage for the culturally curious traveler.”
AKTG, which acquired Cox & Kings in 2019, has steadily integrated the brand into its global Destination Management Company (DMC) network, enhancing its operational scale and expanding its destination offerings. The goal is to reinforce Cox & Kings’ reputation as a leader in immersive, one-of-a-kind travel experiences defined by careful attention to detail and a deep dedication to genuine cultural immersion.
“Reimagining a brand as storied as Cox & Kings is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Manfredi Lefebvre, Executive Chairman of AKTG. “As we’ve done with other iconic brands like Crystal, we are breathing new life into Cox & Kings, respecting its remarkable heritage while shaping it for a new generation of global travelers.”
Since coming under the AKTG umbrella, Cox & Kings has seen major upgrades, including the debut of a revamped website in 2024. The brand now draws on AKTG’s extensive portfolio, which includes A&K Sanctuary’s collection of safari camps, lodges across Africa and riverboats in Egypt, with Peru soon to follow. In addition, Cox & Kings weaves A&K Philanthropy projects into its journeys in destinations like Jordan, Egypt, Peru and throughout Africa, underscoring its dedication to responsible and impactful travel.
“Cox & Kings has a long and storied history of crafting extraordinary travel experiences, and we are pleased to be expanding our reach to a global audience," said Marett Taylor, Chief Sales Officer at AKTG. "This announcement further cements our commitment to this historic brand and to ensuring that the authentic Cox & Kings experience, which has defined its centuries-long legacy, is upheld and enhanced. Our commitment to exceptional service and authentic experiences remains at the heart of everything we do.”
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