Simpson Travel reassures trade of commitment in wake of Classic closure

Simpson Travel has reassured agents of its commitment to the trade in the wake of Classic Collection’s closure as it expands its team.

 

The luxury tour operator has appointed travel and tourism graduate Mariana Canico in the new role of business development executive to support agents across marketing, social media and events and has announced fam trips to its key destinations early in 2026.

 

Following the news about On The Beach’s decision to shut its B2B arm last week, head of trade sales Hannah Naylor-Vane urged agents to get in touch, particularly if looking for beachfront boutique hotels and villas to fill the gap left by Classic’s closure.

 

She said: “Following the very sad news last week regarding the closure of Classic Collection, we want to reassure agents of our commitment to the trade. 

 

“With our range of villas and boutique hotels across the Mediterranean, in destinations including Greece, Turkey, Corsica, France, Italy and Majorca, along with premium services and a commitment to customer experience, our approach reflects many of the philosophies that Classic Collection originally stood for. 

 

“Whilst we are best known for our villas, we also have an outstanding selection of beachfront boutique hotels, so for any agents who are looking for alternatives to what Classic Collection offered, please do feel free to speak to one of the team.”

 

On the new appointment, she said: “We are delighted to welcome Mariana on board. With her social media expertise, she will add a huge amount to the team, producing regular Facebook content and product updates that agents can use, as well as weekly agent newsletters and meeting agents face-to-face. 

 

“Her appointment will also enable me to spend more time with agents - specifically on training and at conferences and events.”

 

She joins the dedicated trade team, which also includes trade sales executive Daniel Conitzer.

 

Canico said: “I’m thrilled to be joining such a well-respected company as Simpson Travel and looking forward to meeting agents on our forthcoming fam trip to Kalkan, where we will all have the opportunity to experience the Simpson Travel product.”