Private equity investor takes stake in villa specialist Simpson Travel
James ChappleVilla specialist Simpson Travel has attracted private equity investment from a group that has previously backed Neilson Active Holidays, Cruise.co and Elegant Hotels.
Luke Johnson’s Risk Capital Partners has secured an undisclosed stake in Simpson, which the business said would allow it to expand the range of European destinations it offers and grow its property portfolio.
Former Hotelplan chief Paul Carter will join the board of Simpson Travel and take over as chair from founder Graham Simpson, who will continue to advise the board.
Operations director Ed Pyke has been promoted to the role of managing director, while Simpson’s sons Mathew and Daniel and daughter Hannah will continue in their respective roles as product director, commercial director and head of trade sales. Helen Grace will remain as director of marketing and communications.
Pyke hailed the investment "a pivotal time in the company’s history". "We have seen record years in 2023 and 2024 to date, as bookings exceed pre-pandemic levels," said Pyke.
"As one of the UK’s most respected specialist tour operators, I recognise the firm foundations and reputation for excellence Graham has established for Simpson Travel and look forward to building on his legacy to take the company forward.
"The investment and backing of RCP affords a wonderful opportunity to push on with our ambitious growth plans; I am enormously proud of all that we have achieved to date and hugely excited for the future."
Simpson said RCP’s backing "no doubt presented an exciting prospect". "They are as passionate as I am about the future of Simpson Travel and I know that our founding principles will remain at the heart of the business.
"Our reputation is built upon exceptional service and the distinctive quality of our accommodation and I look forward to watching the business go from strength to strength under the leadership of an outstanding management team."
On Pyke’s promotion to managing director, Simpson added: "He is Simpson Travel through and through, with a deep understanding of the expectations of our clients and what makes a Simpson holiday so special."
Johnson added: “We believe Simpson Travel is a terrific brand with a tremendously loyal customer base. We look forward to supporting Ed and the management team in their ambitious plans to develop the business."
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