AKTG launches trade-focused global advisory board

Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) has launched a multi-brand global advisory board designed to strengthen its travel agent partnerships. 

The Global AKTG Advisory Board will be spearheaded by chairman Marett Taylor, who previously served as the group’s chief sales officer. 

The advisory board will consist of travel agency partners across key source markets who will meet with members of the group’s leadership team throughout the year.

They will offer guidance on AKTG’s product development and trade initiatives, as well as provide insight on market trends. 

Recruitment for agency partners with expertise selling AKTG’s products are ongoing across the UK, the US, Canada, Latin America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. 

So far, notable appointments from the UK include Mundy Cruising’s Edwina Lonsdale, Travel Network Group’s Fiona Pearcy, Travel Counsellors’ Kirsten Hughes and The Vacation Group’s Jacqueline Dobson.  

Matias Lira, senior vice-president of trade sales for the Americas, UK and EMEA region, said on Taylor’s appointment: “Marett has built exceptional foundations for our global sales teams across both brands [Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal]. 

“Her new role allows us to leverage her industry expertise and deeply engage our trade partners in guiding our global strategic direction for our entire portfolio.”

Alongside her role as chairman for the Global AKTG Advisory Board and trade relations, Taylor has also been appointed to the board for the group’s non-profit organisation A&K Philanthropy, where she will lead projects focused on women’s enterprise, education and conservation. 

To further enhance its trade support, AKTG will launch an improved digital Trade Portal featuring marketing assets for both Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal, inventory management tools and streamlined booking capabilities. 

Agents will have access to high-resolution imagery, detailed product specifications, selling tools and personalised client presentation resources. 

The portal will also offer training modules, webinars and direct communication channels with the group’s sales leadership team. 

The launch of the Global AKTG Advisory Board comes as AKTG announces details of its expanded product offering. 

Crystal recently secured financing for two additional ships, with the first vessel expected to be delivered in May 2028. 

Abercrombie & Kent has unveiled five new small-group journeys for 2026, additional expedition cruise itineraries and a growing private jet offering. 

There are also multiple product launches expected across A&K Sanctuary’s portfolio this year, including the rebuild of Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda and Baines Lodge in Botswana, as well as the Pure Amazon riverboat in Peru. The brand is also set to launch its fifth riverboat in Egypt in 2026.