Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of high-end travel brand Yao Travel and Geely Business Travel by Cao Cao Travel is a strategic move to build a "one-stop technology travel platform" that integrates various travel services for different customer needs [2][3]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - On December 30, Cao Cao Travel announced the acquisition of 50% equity in Yao Travel for 225 million yuan and the full acquisition of Geely Business Travel for 65 million yuan, making both companies wholly-owned subsidiaries [2]. - This acquisition marks Cao Cao Travel's first major strategic acquisition since its listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange [2]. Group 2: Market Context - The high-end travel market in China has faced significant challenges, with a notable decline in business travelers and a drop in high-end hotel prices since the second half of 2024 [3]. - Yao Travel, established in May 2019 as a joint venture between Daimler Group and Geely, has struggled in recent years, including a CEO departure and significant layoffs [3]. Group 3: Financial Performance - Geely Business Travel reported a post-tax profit of 23.3 million yuan for 2024, a decrease of approximately 48% compared to 2023 [4]. - Despite achieving an EBITDA of 260 million yuan over the past 12 months, Geely Business Travel's valuation is only about 75.32 million yuan, reflecting market skepticism about its future [4]. Group 4: Strategic Integration - The integration of Yao Travel and Geely Business Travel into Cao Cao Travel is expected to create significant synergies, enhancing service offerings for both individual and corporate clients [4]. - The company aims to leverage its platform to provide seamless travel and business services, targeting the B2B travel market [4][5]. Group 5: Industry Outlook - The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) projects that global business travel spending will reach $1.57 trillion in 2025, with China contributing approximately $373.1 billion [5]. - The demand for corporate services is stable, with high average prices and margins, making it a competitive area for travel and hospitality platforms [5].
吉利出行业务大整合：曹操出行收购耀出行及吉利商旅