Private Equity Firm Strengthens Its Presence In The Luxury Travel Market

Law firm Irwin Mitchell’s Corporate and Banking teams have advised Risk Capital Partners on its recent investment in luxury tour operator Simpson Travel.

Risk Capital Partners, the private equity firm founded by entrepreneur Luke Johnson, has acquired an undisclosed stake in the business which offers boutique hotels, luxury villas and apartments in Corsica, France, Greece, Italy, Mallorca and Turkey.

Graham Simpson, the founder of Simpson Travel, will continue to contribute to the company as an advisor to the board. Commenting on the deal, he said: “I am delighted that RCP are joining the team. There is no doubt their backing presents 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.”

Ed Pyke, newly appointed Managing Director of Simpson Travel, commented: “As one of the UK’s most respected specialist tour operators I recognise the firm foundations and reputation for excellence that 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.”

With Risk Capital Partners' proven track record in the travel industry, including successful ventures such as Neilson Active Holidays and Cruise.co.uk, the investment in Simpson Travel further solidifies their commitment to the sector.

Commenting on the deal, Luke Johnson said: “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.”

The Irwin Mitchell team was led by Corporate partner Adam Kaucher. He was supported by Greg Mazgajczyk and Kieran Shields (Corporate), Akhil Sharma and Nick Jennings (Banking) and Jade Williamson (Corporate Tax) along with specialist teams providing legal due diligence.

Expert Opinion

"This partnership signifies an exciting chapter for both companies and underscores the continued strength of the luxury travel market. We are confident that Simpson Travel, with its exceptional leadership team and unwavering commitment to excellence, will flourish under this new collaboration." Adam Kaucher, Corporate Partner at Irwin Mitchell