23 October 2000 SINGAPORE – US-based travel and marketing group Carlson Companies is considering expanding its presence in Asia through a series of acquisitions in regional markets.
A report in the Straits Times said in addition to growing its Asian business organically, Carlson - a US$3.7 billion travel and marketing group of companies - has acquisition targets in six Asian markets.
""We've looked at Internet Web companies, smaller local relationship management companies and database management companies,'' chief executive and chairman Marilyn Carlson Nelson was quoted saying.
""And in some cases, we're looking to either partner or acquire companies with specific event expertise.''
Relationship management covers everything from marketing a client company's brand of products and services to its customers, to keeping both its suppliers and employees happy with rewards and perks.
Carlson's range of businesses include global consulting arm Carlson Marketing, travel operators such as Carlson Wagonlit Travel and Thomas Cook, the Radission and Regent group of hotels, the TGIF group of restaurants and several brands of cruise liners.