London's financial markets could be set for a significant boost this spring, with reports indicating that one of Britain's largest online travel agents is preparing for a blockbuster initial public offering (IPO). Loveholidays, a major player in the package holiday sector, is reportedly eyeing a London listing that could value the company at around £1bn, potentially launching as soon as March 2026.
Preparations Underway for Major Listing
According to industry sources, Loveholidays' private equity owner Livingbridge has reportedly added Investec to its roster of banks preparing to launch the IPO. The syndicate of financial institutions is said to be preparing for a March launch date, although insiders have cautioned that market conditions could potentially delay the process.
This development follows previous reports from Bloomberg that the firm could seek a valuation of approximately £1bn. In September 2025, Loveholidays chief executive Donat Rétif told Bloomberg that London would represent a "logical" location for a listing, given the company's status as a "homegrown, British business."
Strong Financial Performance and Market Position
Founded in 2012, Loveholidays has established itself as a significant force in the travel industry, specialising in package holidays to popular destinations including Spain and the Greek Islands. The company also offers city-breaks and long-haul holiday options, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
The firm has benefited substantially from the unexpected post-pandemic rebound in demand for package holidays. Recent data from Barclays revealed that growth in spending on package holidays has outpaced overall travel spending, as consumers increasingly seek greater protection against cancellations, delays, and disruption.
Impressive Financial Growth
According to Loveholidays' latest financial accounts, the company recorded revenue of £288m in the year to October 2024, representing a significant increase from £235m in the previous year. Over the same period, its earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) increased to £71.3m from £61.9m, demonstrating strong financial health and growth momentum.
Positive Market Outlook for Package Holidays
The consultancy firm OC&C predicts continued growth in the UK, Irish and German package holiday market in the coming years. Their projections suggest the market will reach £67bn in 2028, up substantially from £49bn in 2024, indicating favourable conditions for established players like Loveholidays.
This positive market outlook, combined with the company's strong financial performance, creates an attractive proposition for potential investors considering the upcoming IPO.
Boost for London Stock Exchange
The prospect of a major £1bn listing represents welcome news for the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), following a series of late listings in 2025. According to data from EY-Parthenon, there were 11 IPOs in the UK during the fourth quarter of 2025, raising a total of £1.9bn.
Notable listings during this period included closely watched IPOs from tinned tuna firm Princes Group and specialist lender Shawbrook. Julia Hoggett, LSEG's chief executive, has indicated that many companies are "actively preparing" for London listings in 2026.
Potential for Further Market Strengthening
All eyes in the City of London are reportedly on Oslo-based software firm Visma, which could potentially fetch a valuation of around £17bn in a future listing. A London listing from Visma would represent a significant achievement for the UK market at a time when it has faced challenges in retaining and attracting high-growth technology companies.
The potential Loveholidays IPO, combined with other anticipated listings, could help build momentum for London's public markets as they enter the new year following a strong end to 2025. The company has declined to comment on the reports, while Investec and Livingbridge were contacted for comment but have not provided official statements at this time.
