Reports in the Sunday Times said the company’s two entrepreneur owners were in “detailed discussions” with KKR about a deal.
Audley operates tailor-made holidays to more than 80 countries, and employs around 360 people.
Its owners – Craig Burkinshaw and John Brewer - have also held talks with private equity firms 3i, CCMP Capital Advisors and Cinven, but insiders have reportedly said that KKR was in “pole position” and determined to win the auction, with an offer supposedly well above the £200 million asking price.
The sale is expected to be completed by Christmas, and would bring a huge windfall for the owners, who started the business in 2006.
In 2012 the pair sold a majority stake to private equity firm Equistone Partners, but reportedly held onto a “sizeable” minority stake.
US investment giant set to acquire Audley Travel
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