Independent tour operator Simpson Travel has acquired Alternative Escapes in a deal it says will help it expand in France and Portugal.
The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, includes Alternative Escapes’ Alternative Aquitaine and Alternative Portugal brands.
Simpson Travel says the addition of the brands to its portfolio means it can “significantly” increase the destinations in its 2019 programme – including additional properties in Hossegor, Cap Ferret, Biarritz and the Basque Country in the Aquitaine Coast region of France – and Tavira and the Silver Coast in Portugal.
The Alternative Aquitaine and Alternative Portugal programmes will continue to operate as stand-alone brands with their own websites for the foreseeable future and the joint owners – Justin and Claire Ashby, and Alex and Helen Spalding – will all remain on board.
Graham Simpson, chairman of Simpson Travel, said: “We are delighted to announce the news of this acquisition, which is a perfect fit for the Simpson brand, and to welcome Justin, Claire, Alex and Helen.
“Since Simpson Travel’s launch in 2002, we have continually sought to offer our clients a handpicked choice of beautiful villas – and more recently boutique hotels – around Europe. We have a very loyal clientele, who love what we offer, and we are keen to keep expanding our choice of destinations.”
In a joint statement, Justin Ashby and Alex Spalding added: “We think we have found a truly like-minded partner in Simpson Travel. From our very first meeting we felt we had a lot in common and shared the same values. We’re thrilled to be joining the Simpson team and to see their passion for our beloved regions – Aquitaine and Portugal’s ‘Silver Coast.'”