Equistone Partners Europe Invests in Audley Travel

Equistone Partners Europe, a European mid-market private equity firm, has invested an undisclosed amount in UK-based travel business Audley Travel.

The company intends to use the capital to continue to invest in products, operations and team.

Founded as Asian Journeys in 1996, Audley offers tours and safaris, which are tailor- made to the customer’s individual requirements by experienced consultants who have direct experience of the countries in which they specialize. The company currently covers 80 countries and is working to continue to expand its range of destinations and the choice of experiences it offers to its clients.
It is also committed to responsible tourism and works with local guides and drivers while supporting a number of social and environmental initiatives.
Audley currently employs more than 170 people. In December 2010, The company generated revenues of £63m.

Following the investment, which was made through Equistone Partners Europe Fund IV, founders Craig Burkinshaw and John Brewer will remain on the board, joined by travel industry expert Richard Prosser as Chairman. The current senior management team are also staying in the business.

FinSMEs

22/03/2012

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