MUMBAI: Cox & Kings, one of the oldest travel brands in India, has been relaunched by Singapore-based private equity firm Wilson & Hughes. In June, Wilson & Hughes acquired the Cox & Kings brand through the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for an estimated cost of Rs 12 crore, marking its entry into the travel industry.
The original company Cox & Kings, however, continues under liquidation. The acquisition by Wilson & Hughes also includes sub-brands Duniya Dekho (see the world with us), Bharat Dekho (discover the wonders of India), and Luxury Escapades — unparalleled luxury, unforgettable journeys — but is “free from previous financial or legal obligations”.
Throughout its history, Cox & Kings has undergone various ownership transitions. The British brand initially entered India under Grindlays Bank’s ownership. Later, the local unit was controlled by Tata Group’s Indian Hotels Company Limited (operators of the Taj chain) and its former chairman Ajit Kerkar. Following Taj’s exit, the Kerkar family assumed control before the company faced bankruptcy. The Cox & Kings brand in the UK is now owned by Abercrombie & Kent.