TravelLocal secures investment from Channel 4 alongside existing backers Active Partners and Gresham House Ventures to expand its television advertising reach.
Channel 4 backs TravelLocal through its Commercial Growth Fund alongside existing investors Active Partners and Gresham House Ventures.
TravelLocal operates a global online platform that connects holidaymakers directly with vetted local travel experts to arrange bespoke itineraries. The business combines flexible online booking with full consumer financial protection and a focus on sustainable tourism.
TravelLocal has secured funding from British broadcaster Channel 4 through its Commercial Growth Fund in exchange for an equity share. Existing backers Active Partners and Gresham House Ventures also participated, bringing the company's total funds raised to over £8m. The latest capital injection follows the launch of the company's first television advertising campaign earlier in the year. TravelLocal intends to direct the new investment towards expanding its broadcast media reach across Channel 4 television channels.
From the founder
"We are in an exciting period of growth at TravelLocal and are delighted to have Channel 4 join us as an investor. Our new TV ad has delivered great success so far and we’re excited about expanding the campaign to gain maximum exposure for our unique tailor-made holiday offering. We strongly believe that booking bespoke holidays with our handpicked, trusted local partners delivers the best holiday experience for our clients, as well as being fairer to these hidden stars of our industry."
Tom Stapleton
CEO at TravelLocal
Investor perspective
"TravelLocal is a superbly- run regional UK business serving global markets and, like Channel 4’s own distinctive model, presents a unique take on the travel vertical. Led by an impressive management team, it offers an alternative to classic package holidays, seeking out more authentic experiences at superb-value prices – a great fit for our intellectually curious and upmarket audience. Growth phase businesses like TravelLocal are typical of the digital disruptors which our Commercial Growth Fund seeks to support, enabling access to TV advertising-driven awareness at scale. We are truly delighted to support them."
Vinay Solanki
Head of Commercial Growth Fund, Channel 4
Use of funds
- 01Invest in sales and marketing
Investors
Categories
About the company
TravelLocal
TravelLocal provides an online marketplace connecting travellers directly with local experts for bespoke holidays.