Spain’s OTA Destinia Enters UK Market, Buys Travel Republic and Netflights

Spanish online travel agency Destinia has acquired two UK-based OTAs, Travel Republic and Netflights. The deal marks Destinia’s official entry into the British travel market, which the company has long viewed as challenging for non-UK players due to intense competition and high customer service standards.

Both Travel Republic and Netflights were previously owned by the Dnata Travel Group, which decided to wind down the brands following a strategic review of its portfolio.

Focus on continuity and expanded travel offerings

Destinia stressed that it will maintain service continuity. All existing bookings made through Travel Republic and Netflights will be honored, and customer support teams will remain in place during the transition period to minimize disruption for travelers.

Destinia also plans to integrate its own technology and operational expertise into the two brands. One of its stated goals is to broaden the selection of flights, holiday packages, and destinations available to UK customers. The company is placing particular emphasis on Mediterranean and nearby destinations that remain popular with British travelers, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.

Stronger competition in a mature OTA landscape

By acquiring two established UK travel brands, Destinia positions itself more competitively against large OTAs that already have a strong presence in the UK segment. The move allows Destinia to leverage existing brand recognition while scaling its footprint in one of Europe’s most popular online travel markets.

Regulatory pressure continues to build around OTAs

The acquisition comes at a time when OTAs worldwide are facing increasing regulatory scrutiny. A couple of weeks ago, in China, the State Administration for Market Regulation launched a formal investigation into Trip.com Group, the country’s largest OTA. The regulator is examining whether the company abused its dominant market position or engaged in monopolistic behavior.

In Europe, regulatory and legal pressure has also intensified. The Regional Court Berlin II recently issued a ruling holding Booking.com and its German subsidiary liable for compensating more than 1,000 German hotels. The case centered on rate parity clauses, which were found to have restricted competition and distorted hotel pricing in the online booking market.

Photo by Tomek Baginski on Unsplash