Isle of Man holiday lettings agency Island Escapes has been acquired by Cornwall-based Sapphire Holidays Ltd.
Island Escapes manages over 150 properties and will continue under its existing brand with all its existing staff.
Family-owned Sapphire manages over 2,500 properties across the UK through brands including Classic Cottages, Aspects Holidays, Boutique Retreats and Unique Hideaways.
Sapphire says the acquisition will give its new Manx portfolio wider visibility but that the company would remain a locally-run concern.
Simon Tregoning, Sapphire’s chairman, has told the island’s media: ‘Our company was founded on professionalism and excellent service, and we know that [Island Escapes] share those values. The Isle of Man is a unique place to visit, and we are looking forward to helping Island Escapes reach more customers, enabling them to discover this lovely island.”
Last year Island Escapes’ sister company, Homestay IOM Ltd, was appointed by Visit Isle of Man to run the official accommodation scheme for the Isle of Man TT Races and Manx Grand Prix. The scheme allows island residents to register their homes to accommodate paying visitors during the races, with hosts able to earn up to £2,350 tax-free.
