Abacus to merge Australia, New Zealand Operations with Sabre Pacific

Abacus Distribution Systems (Australia) and Sabre Pacific are to merge operations in Australia and New Zealand in a move that aims to boost operational efficiency, ensure long-term profitable growth of the business and deliver quality service to customers.

The merger, announced today by Mr Don Birch, President and CEO of Abacus International, will commence on 17 January 2005. The combined company will operate under the Sabre Pacific brand.

Mr Birch said the merger was an opportunity for both companies to strengthen their market competitiveness and positioning in Australia and New Zealand. Currently, Abacus operates a wholly owned national marketing company that serves both Australia and New Zealand and owns 49 per cent of Sabre Pacific.

Sabre Pacific is a subsidiary of Sabre Holdings Corporation and Abacus International. Sabre Pacific provides distribution services and solutions for travel agents in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands. Although Abacus Distribution Systems (Australia) and Sabre Pacific operate independently, both entities share some functions such as helpdesks and training facilities for travel agents.

"The merged organisation of Abacus Distribution Systems (Australia) and Sabre Pacific makes good sense, and will enable us to respond better to competitive forces affecting these dynamic, diverse and fast-growing Australia and New Zealand markets. Abacus will continue to advance its focus on other high growth markets in Asia-Pacific such as China, India, Pakistan and Thailand where we are rapidly expanding our presence." Mr Birch said.

Abacus-connected travel agencies in Australia and New Zealand will be progressively migrated to the Sabre platform during 2005. Due to the compatibility of the Abacus and Sabre systems, the migration will be seamless and is not expected to cause any disruption to subscribers or their businesses. Abacus solutions that are applicable to these markets will continue to be deployed.

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