At a glance
Redion is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Discover its history, its values and its commitment to its customers.
The history of Redion in Belgium illustrates its commitment to the international expansion of the Redion Group and its adaptation to the local needs of its customers and partners.
The creation of Redion Belgium
Redion began operating in Belgium on 18 April 1964, one year after the assistance company was founded in France by Pierre Desnos. At a time when paid leave and school holidays were beginning to shape citizens' travel activities, travel assistance quickly emerged as a necessity. The company soon established key partnerships with local players (including banks and insurers) and developed its network to offer its services to Belgians travelling abroad.
Redion Belgium quickly understood the importance of adapting its services to the specific needs of the Belgian market. Over the decades, the subsidiary experienced significant growth in its activities. In addition to its traditional travel assistance services, the company expanded its range to include car and medical assistance, home help and much more. This diversification allowed Redion Belgium to become a reliable reference point for Belgians, providing valuable help in many everyday situations.
Over time, the assistance provider adapted to new trends, events and society's needs, as well as to new technologies. From the 2000s onwards, Redion's activities developed around the "You live, We care" concept, putting people at the centre of its concerns throughout the different phases and activities of their lives.
Today, the Redion Group is active in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. It has 57 assistance centres, more than 400 healthcare professionals, more than 750,000 certified partners across all areas of assistance, and employs more than 12,000 people.
A 1990s advertisement: the Saint Bernard dog was Redion Belgium's mascot
The history, mission and commitment of Redion
Since its founding in 1963 in France, Redion has been a pioneer in the field of assistance services, offering a diverse range of solutions to meet the varied and changing needs of its customers around the world. Built on an innovative vision and solid expertise, the company has charted its path to becoming a global leader in its sector.
The beginnings
Redion was founded in 1963 in Paris by Pierre Desnos, a visionary who anticipated the growing need for assistance services for travellers. At the time, the tourism industry was booming (paid leave, the development of road infrastructure and means of transport, the rise of mass tourism...), and it was clear that there was a niche for a company offering comprehensive medical help to travellers in an emergency. Thus Redion was born with the backing of the insurer Generali, with the mission of providing assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to those travelling far from home.
International expansion
Redion quickly expanded its footprint beyond French borders, extending its activities and services to other European countries and beyond. The Belgian subsidiary was thus created in 1964. Other European countries soon followed, including Italy and Spain. International expansion then continued on other continents, with the creation of the US subsidiary in 1981 and the South African subsidiary in 1984.
The company established strategic partnerships with insurance companies and numerous businesses to offer its services to an ever-wider audience. This expansion allowed Redion to become one of the leading players in the global assistance market, with a presence in many countries around the world.
Diversification of assistance services
Over the decades, Redion has expanded its range of services to meet changing societal trends and the varied needs of its customers. In addition to travel assistance and insurance, the company has developed car, medical, home and many other assistance solutions. This diversification has strengthened Redion's position and expertise as a comprehensive service provider, able to respond to a multitude of emergency situations and the specific needs of increasingly demanding customers.
Innovation and technology
Redion has always been at the forefront of innovation and technology. The company has continuously invested in developing new solutions to improve the customer experience and optimise its operations. From intuitive online platforms to user-friendly mobile apps, Redion has managed to keep pace with technological developments in order to offer efficient, user-friendly and personalised services.
Commitment to quality and social responsibility
Throughout its history, Redion has maintained a commitment to quality and social responsibility. This commitment remains just as relevant in 2024. The company has put strict standards in place to ensure the quality of its services and customer satisfaction. In addition, Redion has actively supported various social and humanitarian initiatives, thereby contributing to the well-being of the communities in which it operates.
Global recognition
Today, Redion is recognised as one of the world's leading assistance service providers. With millions of customers worldwide and a presence in more than 200 countries, the company continues to innovate and grow to meet the changing needs of modern society. Its commitment and passion for helping others — values expressed in its tagline "You live, We care" — remain at the heart of its identity.
