On the Beach Group Bundle
Who Owns On the Beach Group plc?
Understanding the ownership of On the Beach Group plc is key to grasping its strategic path and governance. The company’s IPO on the London Stock Exchange in September 2015 marked a significant shift in its ownership structure, valuing it at £240 million.
Founded in 2004 by Simon Cooper, this UK-based online travel retailer focuses on short-haul beach holidays. It acts as an intermediary, connecting customers with suppliers to create tailored trips, a model that has propelled it to become a leading online package holiday specialist. In 2024, On the Beach facilitated holidays for 1.7 million ATOL-protected customers.
Delving into its ownership reveals a journey from founders and early investors to current major stakeholders, including institutional investors and public shareholders. Examining its Board of Directors and recent ownership shifts offers a clear view of who influences this prominent online travel entity, including insights into its On the Beach Group BCG Matrix.
Who Founded On the Beach Group?
On the Beach Group plc was established in 2004 by Simon Cooper, beginning its operations from a modest terraced house in Macclesfield. Cooper's prior experience in the travel sector, including founding a ski holiday company, provided a strong foundation for this new venture. The company initially leveraged a digital platform and a call center for bookings.
Founding Year
On the Beach Group plc was founded in 2004. Its initial operations were based in Macclesfield.
Founder's Background
Founder Simon Cooper had previous success in the travel industry. He had established a ski holiday company prior to this venture.
Early Operations
The company's early operations relied on a digital platform and a call center. A static website was launched in October 2004 to showcase hotels.
Private Equity Investment
In 2007, private equity firm Livingbridge acquired a majority stake. This investment was valued at £36 million.
Growth and Online Shift
The investment facilitated the expansion of the management team. It also supported an increase in online bookings, reaching approximately 79% by 2011.
Ownership Change
Livingbridge's acquisition marked a significant change in the company's ownership structure. This provided capital for the company's subsequent expansion efforts.
The initial ownership structure at the inception of On the Beach Group plc is not publicly detailed. However, a pivotal moment in its ownership occurred in 2007 when Livingbridge, a private equity investor, secured a majority stake for £36 million. This transaction significantly influenced the company's trajectory, enabling the growth of its executive and senior management teams and a substantial increase in online bookings, which reached around 79% by 2011. This investment was instrumental in fueling the company's expansion and solidifying its digital-first approach, aligning with the broader Mission, Vision & Core Values of On the Beach Group.
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How Has On the Beach Group’s Ownership Changed Over Time?
The ownership journey of On the Beach Group plc has seen significant shifts, notably with private equity involvement and a pivotal public offering. These events have reshaped its shareholder base and market valuation.
| Event | Year | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Livingbridge acquisition of majority stake | 2007 | Initial private equity control |
| Inflexion Equity Partners indirect majority stake acquisition | 2013 | Transition of private equity ownership |
| IPO on London Stock Exchange | 2015 | Public listing and significant capital raise |
The company's transition to a publicly traded entity marked a substantial change in its ownership structure. This move allowed for broader investor participation and provided liquidity for earlier stakeholders.
Key Ownership Milestones
On the Beach Group plc's ownership has evolved through strategic private equity investments and its successful initial public offering.
- Inflexion Equity Partners acquired a majority stake in 2013.
- The company went public on the London Stock Exchange in September 2015.
- The IPO valued the company at £240 million and raised £90.2 million.
- As of July 31, 2025, the market capitalization reached £560 million.
Current major shareholders in On the Beach Group plc are predominantly institutional investors, alongside significant individual holdings. As of July 10, 2025, FMR LLC holds 8.9951% of the voting rights, while Liontrust Investment Partners LLP maintains a 5.0687% stake. Simon Cooper, the founder, remains a key figure, holding 5.7% of the issued share capital as of December 31, 2024, through various holdings, including those managed by Hawksford Trustees Jersey Limited. Cooper's continued investment, including a nearly £2.5 million reinvestment in August 2023, underscores his ongoing commitment and substantial interest in the company's direction, making him a critical stakeholder to monitor within the Competitors Landscape of On the Beach Group.
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Who Sits on On the Beach Group’s Board?
The Board of Directors for On the Beach Group plc is structured to uphold strong corporate governance principles. As of March 27, 2025, the Board oversees key functions through dedicated Audit, Remuneration, and Nomination committees, ensuring accountability and strategic direction for the company.
| Director Name | Role | Appointment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Richard Pennycook | Chair of the Board and Nomination Committee | April 1, 2019 |
| Shaun Morton | Chief Executive Officer | July 2020 (joined Board as CFO) |
| Jon Wormald | Chief Financial Officer | June 2023 |
| Simon Cooper | Founder and Non-Executive Director | |
| Elaine O'Donnell | Senior Independent Director and Chair of the Audit Committee | |
| The Rt Hon Justine Greening | Non-Executive Director | |
| Veronica Sharma | Non-Executive Director | |
| Victoria Self | Independent Non-Executive Director | |
| Kirsteen Vickerstaff | Director | August 17, 2015 |
| Zoe Harris | Chief Marketing Officer and Director | October 14, 2022 |
The voting power within On the Beach Group plc is primarily determined by its shareholding structure, operating on a one-share-one-vote principle. As of February 28, 2025, there were 160,280,058 ordinary shares carrying voting rights. Significant changes in major shareholdings directly influence voting power, as seen with FMR LLC's adjustment in voting rights from 9.9999% to 8.9951% in July 2025. The company enforces a code of securities dealings for its directors and key management personnel to ensure ethical conduct in share transactions, contributing to its robust corporate governance framework. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for those interested in On the Beach Group ownership and who owns On the Beach Group.
Understanding Shareholder Influence
The voting power of shareholders in On the Beach Group plc is directly tied to the number of ordinary shares they hold. Changes in major shareholdings can significantly alter the balance of influence within the company.
- Voting operates on a one-share-one-vote basis.
- Total voting shares were 160,280,058 as of February 28, 2025.
- Major shareholder changes impact voting power.
- A code of securities dealings guides director and managerial conduct.
- This structure is key to understanding On the Beach Group company structure and On the Beach Group investor relations.
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What Recent Changes Have Shaped On the Beach Group’s Ownership Landscape?
Over the past few years, On the Beach Group plc has experienced shifts in its leadership and ownership, reflecting a strategic evolution. The company's founder and former CEO transitioned to a non-executive role, with a new CEO taking the helm, signaling a new chapter in its corporate governance.
| Key Shareholder | Ownership Percentage (as of December 2024) | Role |
| Simon Cooper | 5.7% | Founder and significant shareholder |
| FMR LLC | Significant Stake | Institutional Investor |
| Liontrust Investment Partners LLP | Significant Stake | Institutional Investor |
The company has actively managed its capital through a share buyback program, demonstrating financial confidence and a commitment to shareholder value. This program, alongside a consistent dividend policy, underscores the company's financial strategy and its focus on rewarding investors.
Leadership Transition
Simon Cooper, the founder, stepped down as CEO in December 2022 but remains a key shareholder. Shaun Morton is the current CEO, having previously served as CFO.
Share Buyback Program
As of February 28, 2025, the company had repurchased over 7.1 million shares for approximately £17.3 million. This program aims to buy back up to £25 million in shares.
Financial Performance & Capital Allocation
For FY24, the company recommended a dividend of 2.1p per share. The company reported a combined cash balance of £235.7 million as of September 30, 2024.
Market Position & Strategy
The company's asset-light, customer-centric model differentiates it in the market. This approach is key to its strategy and potential for future growth, as detailed in Revenue Streams & Business Model of On the Beach Group.
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- What are Mission Vision & Core Values of On the Beach Group Company?
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