Japan-based JTB Corp. to acquire Phocuswright parent Northstar Travel Group

JTB Corporation, one of Japan’s leading travel solutions providers, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Northstar Travel Group, which owns Phocuswright and PhocusWire, from investment funds managed by EagleTree Capital and its co-investors.

As part of the transaction, Northstar will operate as a wholly-owned, independent subsidiary of JTB and will continue to be led by its existing management team, including CEO Jason Young. Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, but it is expected to close in September, subject to customary conditions including regulatory approvals.  

Along with Phocuswright and PhocusWire, Northstar operates 14 B2B travel event, media and market intelligence brands like Travel Weekly, Business Travel News, ALIS, The Meetings Show, WebinTravel and more. 

Through these platforms, Northstar connects a global audience of more than one million professional travel buyers with more than 1,500 supplier customers seeking to engage them, with its portfolio of digital, social and print products and more than 100 events in 13 countries.

“We are thrilled to partner with JTB as we enter the next phase of our company’s incredible history,” Young said.

“Our shared commitment to the travel industry, cultural alignment and collective expertise—combined with the opportunity to accelerate Northstar’s geographic expansion in the Asia Pacific region—will enhance our ability to deliver value to our audiences and customers as we advance our mission.” 

JTB said the transaction advances its growth strategy, which includes geographic expansion and targeted investments in events, information services, market intelligence and other strategic lines of business associated with the travel industry. 

“Today's announcement marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for JTB Group," said Eijiro Yamakita, president and CEO of JTB Group.

“Northstar brings outstanding expertise and fresh perspectives that perfectly align with our strategic vision. By operating Northstar as an independent subsidiary, we preserve their neutral market position while creating a powerful platform for delivering superior customer experiences. We are confident this structure will unlock significant growth potential while contributing to the innovation and future growth of the travel industry.” 

EagleTree Capital acquired Northstar Travel Group in 2016. Co-managing partner Anup Bagaria and senior partner Michael Struble said, “It has been an honor to partner with the Northstar team, including chairman and former CEO Tom Kemp and current CEO Jason Young, and to witness the Company’s impressive transformation over the last few years. We are confident Northstar is well positioned for future success and look forward to watching it thrive as part of JTB.” 

BrightTower served as financial advisor and Jones Day served as legal counsel to Northstar. SMBC Nikko served as financial advisor and Venable LLP and Mori Hamada & Matsumoto served as legal counsel to JTB.