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L Catterton Amasses a $40 Billion Bet on Travel and Experiences
L Catterton, the consumer-focused investment firm tied to LVMH, has quietly built a broad travel portfolio spanning private aviation, river cruising, online travel, spas and live events. The firm manages about $40 billion and ranks among the world's largest investors dedicated to consumer businesses.
The firm led an $800 million investment in private aviation company Flexjet and backed river cruise operator AmaWaterways alongside co-investors in a deal of roughly $890 million, extending its reach across premium travel segments.
Earlier positions include Despegar, Norwegian Cruise Line, OneSpaWorld and GetYourGuide, giving the investor exposure to online travel agencies, cruise capacity, onboard wellness services and tours and activities.
More recent moves have pushed into live experiences through Fever and into lodging through a newly established luxury hotel strategy.
L Catterton also surfaced as one of the final potential buyers during the attempted sale of British luxury tour operator Audley Travel, though that transaction ultimately fell through.
The firm manages about $40 billion and describes itself as one of the world's largest investment companies focused specifically on consumer businesses, with a track record spanning fashion, food and fitness.
Viewed together, the individual travel and experience transactions point to a broader allocation of capital toward how consumers spend their time and discretionary income.