Hana Tour Invests in Running Platform 'CR8TOUR', Securing Second-Largest Shareholder Status for Sports Tourism Entry
Travel industry leader Hana Tour has announced a strategic investment in 'CR8TOUR,' a running-based sports travel platform, securing its position as the second-largest shareholder.
'CR8TOUR' stands out as the nation's sole specialized platform merging running and travel, leading the run-tourism market with its comprehensive offerings including domestic and international run tours, content, and community services. The platform has established a unique niche by holding exclusive domestic sales rights for the 'Paris International Marathon' and distribution rights for travel packages related to the 'Sydney Marathon,' one of the world's seven major marathons.
With this investment, Hana Tour aims to lay the groundwork for entry into the burgeoning global sports tourism market, projected to reach approximately $2.09 trillion by 2032, while also diversifying its portfolio with a focus on the rapidly growing domestic run-tourism sector.
The two companies plan to maximize profits and attract highly engaged customers through joint product planning and sales. They will combine Hana Tour's extensive global infrastructure (flights, hotels, local tours) with CR8TOUR's expertise in global marathon tourism packages, running-based communities, and content to introduce differentiated running travel products.
Hana Tour intends to accelerate the expansion of its themed travel portfolio from 2026 onwards, signaling its ambition to become a global themed travel brand. This strategic move aligns with its policy of continuous investment and acquisition of startups specializing in themes based on the interests and hobbies of the 2040 generation.
A Hana Tour representative stated, "The travel trend is shifting from mere sightseeing and dining to specialized journeys centered around individual interests and hobbies. Through collaboration with innovative startups, we will expand our themed travel product portfolio and evolve into a theme-based travel platform."
Netizens reacted positively to Hana Tour's investment in CR8TOUR, with comments like 'Finally entering the sports travel market!' and 'Looking forward to the run-tour products,' and 'Go Hana Tour!'.