Simpson Travel announces RCP as new investment partner

Leading independent villa and boutique hotel operator Simpson Travel has today announced the selection of a new investment partner - Risk Capital Partners.  The investment is part of the company’s growth strategy which will see it expanding its range of European destinations as it seeks exclusive new properties to add to its portfolios in Greece, Turkey, Corsica, France, Italy and Mallorca. Risk Capital Partners, founded by Luke Johnson, is a specialist investor in hospitality businesses and has successfully backed Neilson Active Holidays, Cruise.co and Elegant Hotels. Luke remains a substantial shareholder and director of Gail’s Bakeries.

Paul Carter will step into the role of Chairman bringing a wealth of industry expertise and the company has also announced the appointment of Ed Pyke as Managing Director – a promotion from his current role as Operations Director. Ed has over 20 years’ experience in travel and hospitality, having joined Simpson in 2017. He was previously Head of Guest Experience at Greene King and also held management positions at Premier Inn and Wyndham Worldwide for eight years.

Commenting, Ed says “I am thrilled to be stepping up to the role of Managing Director at this pivotal time in the company’s history.  We have seen record years in 2023 and 2024 to date, as bookings exceed pre-pandemic levels.  I am enormously proud of all that we have achieved to date and hugely excited for the future.”

Founder Graham Simpson adds “It’s a real pleasure to announce Ed’s promotion to the role of MD.  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.”

Commenting on behalf of RCP, Luke Johnson says, “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”.