Heidi, an innovative online direct-sell ski operator, has successfully raised £5.6 million to accelerate growth.
- Mercia Ventures led the funding round, joined by Active Partners and private investors.
- The company plans to expand its customer service teams and create 20 new jobs.
- Heidi’s revenue has surged from £8.8m to £37m within two years, showcasing significant growth.
- The funding aims to position Heidi among the top ski travel operators in the coming years.
Heidi, founded in 2018 by skiing enthusiasts Marcus and Alexander Blunt, has announced a substantial funding achievement, raising £5.6 million. This capital injection, spearheaded by Mercia Ventures alongside contributions from Active Partners and other private investors, marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth trajectory. Heidi’s platform offers customers the flexibility to choose from over 6,000 accommodation options across more than 400 ski resorts, aiming to streamline the ski holiday booking experience.
The newly acquired funds will facilitate the enhancement of Heidi’s platform and an expansion of its customer service teams, with plans to add more than 20 new positions in the near future. This strategic move aligns with the company’s ambition to sustain its impressive growth and capture a larger share of the ski travel market.
In just two years, Heidi’s revenues have seen a remarkable increase, climbing from £8.8 million in the financial year ending April 2022 to £37 million in 2024. This growth is a testament to the appeal of Heidi’s offering, which caters to both package holiday seekers and independent travellers, allowing comprehensive ski holiday bookings through a single platform.
Key appointments have been made following the funding round, including Sarah Doyle as chair and Miles Hill and Michael Rivis as non-executive directors. These appointments bring valuable experience, particularly Rivis’s background as chief technology officer at Sykes Cottages, ensuring strong leadership to guide Heidi’s next phase of expansion.
Commenting on the recent developments, Marcus Blunt emphasised the company’s readiness to escalate its operations, aiming to become one of the leading ski travel operators. His views were echoed by Mercia Ventures’ Jan Oosthuizen, who praised Heidi’s unique value proposition and its potential to dominate the market.
Supporting their sentiments, Billy Fox of Active Partners highlighted Heidi’s innovative approach to ski holiday bookings and its significant growth, projecting a bright future for the company and its ability to reach a broader audience of skiing enthusiasts across the UK and further afield.
Heidi’s substantial funding round and strategic plans set a strong foundation for its future growth and market leadership.
