I was impressed at how quickly they grasped the main issues, opportunities and risks. This rigorous, thoughtful and dynamic approach helped get the deal done

Tony Wheble, CEO at James Villas Holidays

Business Profile

James Villa Holidays is the largest villa rental business in Europe with access to 3,000 villas with pools in 32 destinations.

The business had developed a market-leading brand with a loyal customer base due to James Villas ability to manage the entire value chain which had resulted in substantial scale advantages versus its competitors.

James Villas was led by a quality CEO and management team who drove a successful business improvement plan.

Vespa Capital exited James Villas to strategic trade buyer Wyndham Worldwide.

Visit James Villas

Status: Realised
Exited: November 2010
3yr EBITDA CAGR: 18.0%
Sector: Consumer

Investment Summary

Vespa Capital exited James Villa Holidays in November 2010. During our investment, Vespa Capital supported the business during economic headwinds achieving very positive performance and growth.

Increased focus on relevant internal analysis leading to materially improved villa and customer acquisition
Upgraded monthly financial reporting and KPIs enhancing internal processes and review
Recruitment and incentivisation of second tier management
Strategic technology review and recruitment of CTO from Vespa Capital's network
Upgrading of digital marketing and SEO to drive customer acquisition
Management of the business through the 08/09 financial crisis

What our clients say

When we were looking for an investment partner to help us go to the next stage of our development, we wanted constructive engagement not interference, experience in areas that were new to us and a passion for the life sciences industry that matched our own. In Vespa Capital we found all these things.