Published: 06 Dec 2007

The announcement included plans for expansion into the United States, with the first co-branded Expedia CruiseShipCenters store opening at the Crossroads Shopping Center in Bellevue, Wash. Additional franchise opportunities will be available in Washington and Oregon, initially, in the first quarter of 2008.

Home-based agents in the US who sign up as independent contractors can begin selling Expedia CruiseShipCenters offerings in January.

Expedia announced a strategic investment in CruiseShipCenters in March 2007 in a move to broaden its exposure to offline distribution channels.

"Since Expedia first invested in CruiseShipCenters in March 2007, we have recognised the benefit of leveraging the two brands to benefit our home based agents, our Franchise Partners and our consumers," said Michael Drever, President and CEO of CruiseShipCenters.

"With the combined power of the Expedia and CruiseShipCenters brands and backed with our propriety CruiseDesk technology, our agents are better equipped to grow their business."

This alliance enables home-based agents to leverage the expertise and leadership of the Expedia brand and further serve travelers by accessing the breadth of Expedia non-cruise offerings. The new Expedia CruiseShipCenters logo and supporting materials will be available to new and existing franchisees and home-based agents in the first quarter of 2008.

All of the more than 100 retail locations and more than 1,500 cruise sales consultants throughout North America are expected to integrate the new co-brand.