BLS International, the second-largest visa and government services firm in the world and the only Indian-owned company in the ecosystem, has announced its decision to acquire a majority stake in sports management firm SLW Media, that has over two decades of experience in the golf industry.

The acquisition was announced by Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International at a press conference in New Delhi. Aggarwal said that the company has entered into a definitive Share Purchase Agreement to acquire a 51 pc stake in SLW Media, for a value of INR 8 million. 

Aggarwal said that the acquisition aligned perfectly with BLS International’s extensive global presence, allowing for seamless integration of golf events with its visa and travel services across over 66 countries. The strategic move not only tapped into the rapidly growing sports and leisure sector but also positioned BLS International for significant expansion, diversification and global reach enhancement, he added.

Journalists at the press meet also tried their hand at golf

BLS International says that this synergy will also enhance the brand equity of the company at a global scale. By combining golf event management with its existing expertise in visas, travel, and hospitality, BLS International is creating a one-stop solution for luxury experiences that cater to high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), corporate clients and government officials.

He added that the acquisition of SLW Media will allow BLS International to develop its public profile amongst the end consumers or travellers. 

Shikhar Aggarwal

“On an annual level, I think we process about 25 million applications for visa and consular services. Yet, we don’t come in direct contact with them. So today’s acquisition would help us position ourselves next to our end customers and I think definitely this will enhance both India’s brand image, our own brand equity,’’ he added.

Aggarwal said that BLS International handled work for over 46 client governments at a global scale and had presence in 70 countries around the world. He added that BLS International was seeking to grow both organically and inorganically, through acquisitions, and highlighted the recent acquisition of a Turkish company IData for INR 7.5 billion.

“We are excited to join forces with BLS International, our vision perfectly aligns with each other. Our deep-rooted expertise in the golf industry and sports management and BLS International’s global reach will lead to the creation of a powerhouse in the sports and leisure sector. With this association, we look forward to expanding our services, reaching new markets, and offering better experiences to sports enthusiasts,’’ said Dev.

Aggarwal added that as BLS International continues to expand its service offerings, this acquisition represents a significant step towards becoming a comprehensive, global leader in both government services and luxury experiences.