Cultural tours leader, Martin Randall Travel, transitions ownership to a private equity firm, marking a new chapter in its 35-year history.
- The firm orchestrates 180 tours annually spanning the UK, Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Asia and the Americas.
- Martin Randall Travel caters to a diverse international market including clients from the UK, US, and Australia.
- The sale, advised by BDO, aligns with Piper Private Equity’s strategy to expand reach under CEO Fiona Charrington’s leadership.
- Piper’s partnership is poised to capitalise on strong demand for cultural experiences, supported by insights of growing consumer interest.
Cultural tour operator Martin Randall Travel has been acquired by a private equity firm, marking a significant shift in its leadership and signalling new growth opportunities. Established 35 years ago, Martin Randall Travel is renowned for offering comprehensive and educational tours across a wide geographical area, including destinations in the UK, continental Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. The firm successfully conducts around 180 tours each year, catering to travellers from multiple markets, notably the UK, US, and Australia.
Martin Randall Travel has established itself as a leader in cultural escorted tours. By delivering unique travel experiences, the company enjoys a high level of client satisfaction and loyalty. Its ability to draw customers from diverse international backgrounds underscores its strong brand presence in the cultural tourism sector.
Accountancy firm BDO played a pivotal role in guiding the sale of Martin Randall Travel to Piper Private Equity. This strategic move aims to bolster the company’s capacity to offer unique travel experiences under the guidance of current CEO Fiona Charrington. The transaction price remains undisclosed.
Partnering with Piper Private Equity, Martin Randall Travel is set to leverage Piper’s consumer insights which suggest an increased appetite for investment in travel-related hobbies and cultural experiences. As consumers look forward to exploring new destinations and cultures, the firm is positioned to harness this opportunity and expand its offerings.
Harry Stoakes, a partner at BDO, remarked on the unparalleled nature of Martin Randall Travel’s tours, expressing confidence that the partnership with Piper would help to bring these exceptional experiences to a broader clientele across the UK, USA, and Australia. Piper’s Dan Stern also echoed this sentiment, highlighting the pent-up demand for cultural travel and the firm’s potential to lead in this space.
Martin Randall Travel’s partnership with Piper Private Equity sets the stage for an exciting phase of expansion in cultural tourism.
