Tom Marchant is co-founder of luxury travel company Black Tomato. Described by Harper’s Bazaar as “having a finger on the pulse of travel that is incomparable” his experience shaping the business in the UK and the US has enabled a deep understanding of the different markets and led to Black Tomato’s innovative approach being lauded across the luxury sector. Their discerning clientele are inspired by handcrafted experiences designed to reflect every passion, obsession and desire. Black Tomato’s pioneering travel products, like “Get Lost” and “Blink” reflect the company’s unique ability to uncover rare ways in which to experience destinations. This approach has led to them being frequently named by the likes of Conde Nast Traveller and Travel + Leisure as one of the best travel companies in the world.
What does it mean to you to be named a Walpole 2020 Power List winner?
To be in such extraordinary company and join such a prestigious list of creatives, visionaries, and mavericks in luxury is both an honour and a pleasure. To receive this recognition by Walpole, whose stewardship drives growth and opportunities through creative collaboration and inspiration is humbling. While it may be my name on this list, this is one I share with my incredible co-founders, James Merrett and Matt Smith, and co-workers who work tirelessly across all parts of the business, and are what makes Black Tomato what it is. Day in and day out, I’m constantly inspired by the remarkable work and collaboration at Black Tomato that has continued to shine through any challenges we may face.
Why do you think you were named on the List this year?
Ultimately, I would say this is due to our dedication to outstanding service, industry-shaping products and innovation. We are blessed to have clients who share our passion and vision for travel and we’re able to stay fresh and relevant in part to listening to what inspires them. I believe it is through an open-mindedness to how the world is changing and adapting to a rapidly-shifting environment, creatively and thoughtfully, that Black Tomato and I have received this acknowledgement. I am truly delighted and proud.
Creative agency Studio Black Tomato - under the Black Tomato Travel umbrella - presented the findings from their research into the existence and nature of the ‘language of luxury’ at Walpole's Festival of Luxury Marketing in September 2020. The presentation explored some of the most pertinent issues raised within the research, including the disparity between the language used by brands and the language used by their consumers, the danger of a lack of differentiation that comes with a shared rhetoric and how this language is shifting in reaction to COVID-19.
