The acquisition was finalized on August 1, 2023 and marks a significant milestone in breathe’s growth strategy as they broaden their offerings and expand their presence in The County’s thriving tourism market.

As a result of the acquisition, breathe gains access to Sandbanks’ property portfolio and guided tours department, solidifying their position as the go-to provider for accommodation and experience packages across The County.

Scott Clément, Co-Founder of breathe, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We’re thrilled to welcome Sandbanks Vacations into the breathe Vacation Rentals family. We’re looking forward to expanding offerings and increasing off-season tourism in Prince Edward County, which benefits the region as a whole.”

The Sandbanks property management arm is migrating under the breathe banner, while the tours department will continue operating under the Sandbanks brand.

“When I made the decision to retire and sell the business, my main prerogative was to make sure Sandbanks would still be in good hands,” said Richard Barrett, Founder and former CEO of Sandbanks Vacations. 

“I’m confident that breathe Vacation Rentals is the right company, with a strong vision, to take the Sandbanks reputation to new heights.”

This strategic move aligns perfectly with breathe’s existing presence and foothold in the region.

“The County is home to the majority of our rental properties,” Clément said, “and is the most in-demand area of our portfolio due to the proximity to Toronto and the sought-after landscape and unique activities The County has to offer.”

With the expansion, visitors to Prince Edward County can look forward to a diverse selection of vacation rental accommodations combined with exclusive guided tour deals. 

“By combining the strengths of both companies, breathe is set to raise the bar for vacation rental offerings in the region and ensure that homeowners can breathe easy, while guests create unforgettable memories with every stay,” explained Clément. 

“We’re fortunate to be able to leverage upon the name-recognition that comes with Sandbanks, and become the go-to vacation package company.” 

Sandbanks and breathe have assured their clients that their teams are exerting every effort to ensure a seamless transition. 

Existing clients of Sandbanks will continue to enjoy the same level of service they have come to know and trust, while gaining access to breathe’s expanded management services.

“Since 2009, my team has been phenomenal in making sure our guests are delighted with their experiences,” Barrett said. “I’m grateful to know that with this acquisition, that fact won’t change.”

“We have a stellar team across breathe and Sandbanks now and I’m sincerely proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Clément stated. 

“We have ambitious goals and a strong vision. As we continue to grow, we won’t forget our commitment to our guests and homeowners. We’ll do everything we can to make sure our brands are synonymous with quality tours and vacation destinations.”

A photo of Scott, Rachel, and Nick, co-owners of Sandbanks Vacations and breathe Vacation Rentals.
Scott, Rachel, and Nick: Three siblings and co-owners of Sandbanks Vacations and breathe Vacation Rentals.

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For more information about breathe Vacation Rentals, visit breathevacationrentals.com

breathe Vacation Rentals is a full service short-term property management company headquartered in Ottawa, Canada, servicing 80+ homes in their exclusive portfolio across Ontario and Western Quebec. Founded in 2016 by three siblings, breathe’s commitment to exceptional management service has led to a partnership with Marriott International; an environmental initiative with not-for-profit One Tree Planted; and a consistent ‘Top 5 in Canada’ ranking for short-term management every year by data analytics firm AllTheRooms. Their recent acquisition of Sandbanks Vacations expands their brand to offer guided tour services across Prince Edward County.