Crystal to shut down Australian office
Cruise line Crystal has announced the closure of its Australian office, located in Sydney, as it tries to weather the COVID-19 pandemic.
The company said in a statement it has been taking both offensive and defensive measures, including a review of its business around the world to ensure it survives.
“These certainly are unprecedented times and it is with deep regret that we announce the closure of Crystal’s Sydney office,” said Karen Christensen (pictured above), senior vice president and managing director for Australasia at Crystal.
“I am so very proud of the team in the Australian office and what we have achieved in just over three years.”
The operational, as well as sales and marketing duties of Crystal’s Sydney office, will be transitioned to Genting Cruise Lines’ team in Sydney under the direction of Michael Goh, president of Dream Cruises and head of international sales for Genting Cruise Lines.
Christensen will remain with the company for a period of 90 days to assist with the transition.
“We want to thank our trade partners for their continuing support, as they have been incredibly supportive and truly share our passion for the World of Crystal, and we know they will be well taken care of by our colleagues at Crystal Asia,” Christensen said.
The move by Crystal comes shortly after Ensemble Travel Group decided to exit the local market due to the impact of the coronavirus outbreak, with CEO David Harris describing it as a “difficult business decision”.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
Australian office coronavirus COVID-19 cruise cruise line Crystal Genting Cruise Lines karen christensenLatest News
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