Virgin Group News
Virgin Atlantic Announces Chairman Transition
The Virgin Atlantic board announced today that Peter Norris will step down as Chair on 31 May 2026, after 14 years in the role. He will be succeeded at Virgin Atlantic by Josh Bayliss, CEO of Virgin Group. Peter has served as Chair of Virgin Atlantic since 2012, guiding Virgin Atlantic through one of its most important defining periods. He has worked with successive management teams to shape the airline’s strategy, strengthening its partnerships and championing its distinctive brand, service and people.
In Memoriam: Joan Templeman - The Heart Behind the Virgin Group Legacy
Joan Templeman, the beloved wife of Sir Richard Branson, passed away peacefully at the age of 80, leaving behind a profound legacy of love, resilience, and quiet strength that shaped one of the world’s most recognisable entrepreneurial families. Known for her warmth and wit as much as her steadfast loyalty, Joan was the emotional anchor of the Branson household for nearly five decades — a grounding presence through triumphs, tragedies, and the extraordinary global expansion of the Virgin Group.
Virgin Orbit strikes upbeat tone following launch failure
Virgin Orbit has tried unsuccessfully to launch a rocket over the Pacific Ocean. A booster was released from under the wing of a Boeing 747 specially converted for the task, but exploded shortly afterwards.
Branson to sell $500m stake in Virgin Galactic
Richard Branson is reportedly to sell a stake in Virgin Galactic to raise $500 million to prop up his other businesses. He currently owns 55 per cent of the venture, and is thus likely to lose his controlling interest.
Branson invests US$250m to sustain Virgin Group
Entrepreneur Richard Branson is set to invest US$250 million into the Virgin Group as the company battles the fallout from the coronavirus outbreak. “This is the most significant crisis the world has experienced in my lifetime,” said Branson.
Flybe reveals new name following Virgin takeover
Connect Airways chief executive, Mark Anderson, was today joined by over 200 Flybe leaders for the long-awaited unveiling of the airline’s new name. As it enters a new era, the carrier will now fly under the Virgin brand with the name, Virgin Connect.
Saudi Arabia signs partnership with Virgin Hyperloop One
Under the plans the company will conduct a study to build the world’s longest test and certification hyperloop track, as well as a research and development centre and hyperloop manufacturing facility north of Jeddah.
Virgin Voyages opens Scarlet Lady to bookings
Virgin Group founder Richard Branson and Virgin Voyages president Tom McAlpin announced today that the line is officially open for business, with the company’s first ship, Scarlet Lady, now open for bookings.
Necker Island returns to market in Caribbean
Necker Island can be booked exclusively throughout the year for up to 30 guests with rates starting from $77,500 per night.
Virgin Voyages headed for Cuba in augural season
Virgin Voyages’ first ship, Scarlet Lady, will feature Cuba as one of her voyage destinations during her inaugural season in 2020. The decision to sail to Cuba was influenced by customer and travel partner research it conducted in North America and the United Kingdom.
Virgin launches new company-wide loyalty scheme
A new company, Virgin Group Loyalty Company, will be set up to own and manage this exciting programme. Virgin Red, an existing loyalty start-up within the group, will also be integrated into the new group-wide loyalty programme.
Air France-KLM completes acquisition of Virgin Atlantic stake
Air France-KLM has completed the acquisition of a 31 per cent stake in Virgin Atlantic currently held by Virgin Group. The deal is valued at around £220 million and is part of an expanded transatlantic joint venture with Delta Air Lines.