John

BBC Worldwide, the commercial arm of the BBC, is to buy Lonely Planet for an undisclosed sum and plans to take the franchise worldwide.

The privately-owned business is being sold by Tony and Maureen Wheeler, who founded the company in 1972, and John Singleton, who became a shareholder in 1999.

BBC Worldwide CEO John Smith said: "This deal fits well with our strategy to create one of the world's leading content businesses, to grow our portfolio of content brands online and to increase our operations in Australia and America."

Lonely Planet, which has operations in the UK, California and Australia, is led by Judy Slatyer (CEO) and her management team, who will be staying with the business.

Lonely Planet's global headquarters will remain in Melbourne and the joint founders will retain a 25% shareholding in the company.

BBC Worldwide non-executive chairman Etienne de Villiers said: "It is testimony to BBC Worldwide's reputation that the Wheelers believe we are the right partner to take the business forward, given the many organisations that have approached them over the years.

"We are all convinced that the association will strengthen Lonely Planet's visibility and growth potential, particularly in the digital arena, as well as providing their users access to the wide range of BBC content which connects with their interests - from Michael Palin's New Europe to Planet Earth."

Lonely Planet publishes around 500 titles including activity guides, shoestring guides and phrasebooks.

(Travelmole)

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