Simpson Travel expands into Portugal with Affinity Villas acquisition

Villa operator Simpson Travel has acquired Algarve specialist Affinity Villas for an undisclosed sum.

The deal will add more than 30 properties in Carvoeiro, Quinta do Lago, Praia de Luz, Loulé, Silves and Vale do Lobo to the Simpson programme.

The properties will initially be available via that Affinity Villas website and will be gradually added to the Simpson site in time for the peak season.

Flights, car hire, transfers and in-resort concierge services will also be available.

Affinity managing director Grant Glow will assume a consultancy role during the transition.

Ed Pyke, Simpson Travel managing director, said: “We are delighted to announce this new acquisition, with a company so closely aligned in values to our own. 

“The villas all come with private pools; most are within walking distance to restaurants and the destinations fit perfectly with our ‘road less travelled’ approach. We have a high volume of repeat clients who we know will welcome the addition of Portugal to our portfolio, as it gives them a greater choice for their holidays, with the same high standards they have come to expect from travelling with Simpson.”

He added: “The move marks a significant achievement in our growth strategy under Risk Capital Partners.  As part of this approach, we will continue to expand our range of European destinations into the future, as well as source exclusive new properties to add to our current portfolio in Greece, Turkey, Corsica, France, Italy, and Mallorca.”

Clow said: “We are thrilled to be joining with Simpson Travel. With a heritage dating back to 2001, we have been offering handpicked villas in the finest areas of the Algarve for nearly 25 years, and I couldn’t think of a better company to move forward with into the future.

“With their dedication to customer service, destination expertise and many years of experience, Simpson Travel is the perfect brand fit for both our owners and clients, who I know will be in good hands in years to come.”