Andante Travels plans a huge growth programme following a £1.8 million investment and a former Tui director taking the helm.
The archaeology specialist, which organises expert guided tours to worldwide destinations, will be expanding its product range, increasing its marketing and looking at overseas expansion.
The investment comes from Panoramic Growth Equity, which specialises in fast growing entrepreneurial companies, and backs incoming CEO and co-investor Ian Finlay who was previously managing director of Tui Travel’s Education Division.
Finlay sold his business, Travel Class to First Choice in 2006.
The investors say that special interest and activity holidays have been a growing sub-sector of the overseas travel market, with increasing demand for holidays that offer a cultural or educational experience.
Andante, staffed by professional archaeologists and academics, provided 88 tours, covering 28 countries for over 1,700 passengers in 2012; and achieved revenues of approaching £4 million.
It was founded in 1985 by Dr Annabel Lawson, who holds a PhD in Archaeology, and now employs eighteen people at its premises near Salisbury in Wiltshire.
Dr Lawson will continue to be involved as an expert consultant to the business.
Finlay said: "What really made Panoramic stand out was their understanding of the business and our shared vision for what it could achieve over the next five years and beyond.
"Andante has an exceptional team of staff and delivers market leading tours to its discerning customers. We look forward to introducing more people to the wonders of the ancient world."
