caravan

BEVERLEY HOLIDAYS SCORES AWARD HAT TRICK

Posted on August 13, 2024

BEVERLEY HOLIDAYS is really proud to be part of these awards which aim to celebrate and recognise all the success and talent that is out there in English Riviera’s thriving tourism business community

Beverley Holidays in Paignton has kicked off the Euros season with its very own hat trick after scoring big at Torbay Weekly’s Naturally Inspiring Business Awards 2024.

The family-run holiday park group was named Tourism Business of the Year for the third year running, while also winning the Inspiring Employer of the Year award category. Beverley Holidays proved that it remains at the top of the staycation game 66 years since it opened its doors, overcoming tough competition from a high calibre of companies across Torbay.

The award wins follow hot on the heels of an exciting series of investments throughout 2024 aimed at taking the holiday experience to the next level and recognising Beverley Holidays’ hardworking team. Earlier this year saw the launch of its largest lodge offering to date, with £250k invested in a brand-new top-of-the-range Collection Hot Tub lodge collection comprising sumptuous 3-bedroom sea-view lodges.

Furthermore, 2024 also saw the family-run holiday park group place a major focus on employees’ well-being with the introduction of a bumper benefits package and brilliant Beverley Holidays’ perks. Beverley Holidays is really proud to be part of these awards which aim to celebrate and recognise all the success and talent that is out there in English Riviera’s thriving tourism business community.

TRUSTED SITE TRANSPORTATION

Posted on August 7, 2024

In order to get the job done properly staff need the right equipment and when it comes to being fast and efficient across large sites, your team will thank you for the STAR Capella Work Machine from Reesink e-Vehicles.

This buggy is already preferred by venues across the UK, from lugging mannequins, balls and airbed walls for training, fulfilling housekeeping duties for the 46-bedroom lodge and supporting the gardens maintenance team at London’s Tottenham Hotspur campus, to the grounds maintenance of Wales’ Three Cliffs Bay’s five-acre holiday park.

It’s also trusted by Royal Dornoch Golf Club in Scotland to carry defibrillators to provide quick potentially life-saving treatment. All this goes to show the machine’s sheer versatility. Add to that the fact that, ultimately, it’s a really solid transportation option. Three Cliffs Bay is a case in point, it now has plans for expanding the job requirements of the Capella vehicles and hiring them out to guests to navigate the site with ease for the duration of their stay.

But why, exactly, is this such a good choice for those in the leisure industry and industrial sites? It all starts with a 48v 5Kw motor and the choice of two high powered Lithium-ion batteries (charged via an on-board Lester charger). With a 450A AC Curtis controller and direct drive, the Work Machine offers a range up to 60 miles going at a maximum speed of 20mph for the ultimate productivity from an electric vehicle.

Market-leading when it comes to its towing capacity, it has a hydraulic lift rear cargo utility box with an impressive 670kg (1477lbs) carry capacity and then there’s the option to customise the body to suit the venue’s requirements and workload with a cargo box or van body, with or without a full cab.

For example, the van body is available as an insert inside the cargo tray with rear facing double doors; or a larger replacement for the tray, with drivers side double opening doors, makes it ideal for carrying refreshments, food stores, linen or goods. When it comes to providing your team with a load-lugging, easily organised and reliable method of transport, look no further than the STAR EV Capella Work Machine to get the job done fast.

Reesink UK Ltd
01480 226800
www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk

DO YOU KNOW ABOUT MARTYN’S LAW?

Posted on August 7, 2024

Compass Insurance takes time to tell us about something a little different than the usual world of insurance but about some legislation that, potentially, could affect many parks.

WHAT IS MARTYN’S LAW?
To give it the correct title, the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill is a piece of legislation contained within the King’s Speech last November. It has recently completed a public consultation and the Home Office will respond on this in the near future with a view to pushing the Act through Parliament in the current term.

It will be applicable across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This Bill has its origins in the Manchester Concert Bomb attack in 2017, where alongside 21 others Martyn Hyett lost his life. Since the attack, a campaign has been led by Martyn’s mum to pass a law requiring hospitality and retail venues to improve their awareness of and their level of security against terrorist threat.

WHAT WILL MARTYN’S LAW DO?
Through Martyn’s Law premises will be better prepared, ready to respond and their staff will know what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. It will enhance public safety by ensuring there is better preparedness for, and protection from, terrorist attacks. This will be done by mandating, for the first time, who is responsible for considering the risk from terrorism and how they would respond to a terrorist attack at certain premises and events.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT ME?
The proposed law will require any venue with a capacity for over 100 people to carry out certain measures and assessments to be able to lawfully conduct their business. There are several requirements for a venue to fall under the jurisdiction of Martyn’s Law, including:

• Premises and events must be open to the public.
• The premises’ purpose must be listed in the bill – these can include retail areas, events venues, entertainment, and leisure venues, etc.
• Premises must have capacity for at least 100 people.
• Premises may be a building or location with clearly defined boundaries and access routes (by permission).
• Temporary events like festivals are also included in the bill, where they need permission to enter and a capacity of more than 800 people.
• It is proposed that there will be a standard tier (100 to 799 capacity) and an enhanced tier (over 800 capacity).

THE TERRORISM (Protection of Premises) Bill is a piece of legislation contained within the King’s Speech last.

STANDARD TIER
Under Martyn’s Law, the standard tier is a baseline measure for venues with a capacity between 100 and 799. The Bill will aim to set out low-cost, practical, and effective measures to help improve preparedness in case of an attack. This may include sharing information, providing additional training for staff, and creating a preparedness plan to ingrain certain practices.

Examples include locking doors to prevent easy progress through a venue, or providing enhanced first-aid training to staff members so they can provide vital care before the emergency services arrive. Currently, the standard tier of Martyn’s Law is under consultation before it can be formalised.

This is because the law needs to provide a proportionate response that is possible for smaller venues to achieve, without being a burden. This balance is essential, as the law is designed to protect people, not penalise businesses because they don’t have the infrastructure or budget to meet the new requirements.

ENHANCED TIER
Larger events and venues, with 800+ capacity, will fall under the enhanced tier of Martyn’s Law. The enhanced tier has additional requirements to fulfil, largely in recognition that there is the possibility for more serious ramifications of a successful attack at a larger venue, like the number and severity of injuries, and the difficulty of a response on a large scale.

Measures under the enhanced tier include taking ‘reasonably practicable’ actions to reduce the risk of a terrorist attack and reduce the physical harm caused, keeping, and updating an assessed security document and designating a ‘senior member’ of staff for the venue or event.

THE PROPOSED LAW will require any venue with a capacity for over 100 people to carry out certain measures and assessments to be able to lawfully conduct their business.

SO, WILL THIS REALLY AFFECT ME?
Most clubhouses, bars and cafés will have a capacity of over 100, especially if outside tables/seating are included (which must be when calculating capacity!) and any members of staff that are involved in serving in this area at the time should also be included. From time to time, we receive requests from parks to cover festivals, displays or exhibitions that may exceed the 800 attendance mark. Below are some of the covers that may be relevant to members when Martyn’s Law is passed.

• Material Damage and Business Interruption
• Terrorism cover is very rarely purchased by holiday parks as terrorist attacks most often occur in cities and major towns.
• We are not suggesting park owners rush out and buy this as the proposed legislation does not impact a park’s decision to purchase this cover.
• Employers’ Liability (EL)
• Standard EL cover will include a limit for terrorism – usually £5 million for any one claim.
• Public Liability (PL)
• Standard PL will also include an inner limit for terrorism, usually £5 million for any one claim.

Once this legislation is passed, if members have a qualifying venue, then they will be required by law to carry out the necessary risk assessments and implement any necessary risk controls. So, this isn’t the law yet, but it could be pretty soon and it’s helpful to know what might be coming down the track.

One final note – there are plenty of ‘deals’ being offered from training companies at the moment with comprehensive-looking packages and services available. Our advice is to ignore all of them at this stage! The full parameters are not known at this time and the legislation is still being formulated.

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0876
www.compassparks.co.uk

SUPERIOR POOL WATER QUALITY

Posted on August 7, 2024

The allure of a sparkling, pristine pool can significantly elevate the appeal of a holiday park. Good water quality in a holiday park pool is not just about aesthetics; it is crucial for health, safety, and guest satisfaction. Ensuring that the pool water is clean and safe can directly impact the number of bookings, as families and individuals seek out locations where they can relax without health concerns.

Maintaining excellent water quality in a holiday park pool involves regular and precise monitoring. This is where the Lovibond® MD110 comes into play. The MD110 is a robust, user-friendly photometer designed for accurate water testing. It provides reliable results that are essential for maintaining the chemical balance of the pool, ensuring that harmful bacteria and contaminants are kept at bay.

Covering all the main pool water tests such as free & total chlorine, pH, total alkalinity etc the MD110 is also equipped with Bluetooth® connectivity, enabling seamless data transfer and storage, which is particularly useful for holiday park staff who need to keep detailed records of water quality. This ensures that any deviations from the optimal chemical balance are quickly identified and rectified, maintaining the pool’s safety and clarity.

Guests are more likely to book a stay if they are confident in the safety and cleanliness of the pool facilities. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations about the exceptional pool quality can drive higher occupancy rates. In contrast, reports of poor water quality can deter potential visitors and harm reputation.

By investing in reliable water testing equipment like the MD110, holiday parks can ensure their pools remain inviting and safe. High standards in pool maintenance reflect a commitment to guest welfare, setting a holiday park apart from the competition and fostering long-term customer loyalty.

Lovibond Water Testing
01980 664800
www.lovibond.com

SHOW SEASON SPECIAL

Posted on August 7, 2024

Welcome to the Holiday Park, Caravan Park, Camp & Glamp sites related Exhibition Previews, the premier events for the holiday park sector! This year’s exhibitions promise to be an unmissable gathering for industry professionals, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest innovations, trends, and products that are set to shape the future of holiday parks.

Whether you are a park operator, developer, supplier, or enthusiast, these show’s provides a unique platform to network with peers, gain insights from industry leaders, and discover new business opportunities. Set against a backdrop of increasing demand for unique and sustainable holiday experiences, the exhibitions will showcase a wide range of offerings from cutting-edge accommodation solutions and eco-friendly initiatives to advanced technology and guest amenities designed to enhance visitor satisfaction.

Attendees will have the chance to attend informative seminars, engage in interactive workshops, and witness live demonstrations, all tailored to inspire and inform. Highlights include keynote speeches from renowned experts, panel discussions on current challenges and opportunities in the sector, and a dedicated area for start-ups to present their ground breaking ideas. Join us at this vibrant event to stay ahead of the curve, drive your business forward, and celebrate the dynamic and ever-evolving world of Holiday Parks, Caravan Parks, Camp & Glamp Sites.

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THE GLAMPING SHOW 2024
19th-21st SEP 2024
Location: NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, UK
Web. www.theglampingshow.com

Calling all holiday park operators! Claim your FREE ticket to The Glamping Show 2024. Visitor registration has now opened for The Glamping Show 2024, the UK’s flagship business-to-business event for the glamping industry.

The Show, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, takes place from 19th-21st September at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. Tickets are free of charge and give visitors access to the extensive exhibition showcasing the latest products and services for operators of holiday parks and glamping, caravan and camp sites, as well as complimentary access to an unmissable programme of seminars designed to help site owners, and those looking to open a site, maximise return on investment.

In the last decade, glamping has become increasingly popular and the industry has grown to become a prominent part of the leisure sector. This year’s Show welcomes both new and returning exhibitors from across the sector including manufacturers of bell tents, wigwams, pods, shepherds’ huts, cabins and gypsy caravans, along with eco toilets, portable washrooms, storage containers, hot tubs, lighting, fire pits, barbeques, accessories and a whole lot more.

So, what are you waiting for? Put the date in your diary and claim your free ticket to The Glamping Show 2024 at www.theglampingshow.com and click ‘GET FREE TICKET’.

 

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SALTEX 2024
30th - 31st OCT 2024
Location: The NEC, Birmingham, UK
Web. www.saltex.org.uk

Holiday parks are all about creating idyllic escapes. For grounds maintenance staff, the pressure to maintain flawless landscapes and stay ahead of the curve is real. This is where SALTEX 2024 comes in. As the premier event for grounds management professionals and volunteers, SALTEX 2024 promises to redefine standards in the field.

Taking place on October 30th - 31st at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham, the leading exhibition offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, education, and innovation. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, SALTEX showcases the latest products, services, and technologies, giving attendees the insights and resources needed to thrive in today’s dynamic landscape.

This year’s theme, “Uniting the industry, powering progress” highlights how SALTEX connects thousands of professionals from across the world. Attendees can look forward to expert-led seminars, live demonstrations, and the opportunity to engage with industry leaders.

Learn how to tackle common challenges, from pest control to irrigation, and discover new techniques to keep your park pristine year-round. Join us at SALTEX 2024 and take the first step towards elevating your holiday park to new heights.

Register now to secure your place at the forefront of the grounds management industry.

 

 

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LAND, LEISURE & TOURISM SHOW
6th - 7th NOV 2024
Location: The NEC, Birmingham, UK
Web. www.lltshow.com

Grow your business at the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show as is the UK’s largest event for rural businesses, holiday parks, leisure and attractions. Celebrating its eleventh year, the show has newly rebranded to provide a platform for businesses to network, generate leads, showcase products and boost brand awareness.

For your convenience the event now features three great zones, Holiday Park & Resorts Innovation, Family Attractions and Leisure, Food and Beverage. Plus, this year the Land, Leisure and Tourism Show is co-locating with the Farm Business Innovation Show, which helps farmers and landowners find ways to diversify and optimise their land.

Verity Hyland, Event Director, Agriconnect said: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the newly named Land, Leisure & Tourism Show this year, it’s looking to be bigger and better than ever.” Mark your calendars for the Land Leisure and Tourism Show at the NEC Birmingham, 6-7 November. Join us and be part of shaping the future of UK tourism.

Scan the QR code or email the team at events@agriconnect.com for more information.

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UK POOL & SPA AWARDS
5th DEC 2024
Location: The NCC, Birmingham, UK
Web. www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

Entering the 2024 UK Pool & Spa Awards is a golden opportunity for holiday parks, caravan parks, and campsites to showcase their exceptional facilities and gain national recognition for their commitment to providing outstanding aquatic experiences.

These prestigious awards celebrate excellence across the pool and spa industry, highlighting innovative designs, superior customer service, and the highest standards of maintenance and safety. By participating, your park not only stands a chance to win one of the coveted titles but also benefits from enhanced visibility and credibility within the industry.

Winning or even being shortlisted can significantly boost your marketing efforts, attracting more visitors and setting you apart from competitors. It is also an excellent way to motivate your staff, recognizing their hard work and dedication. The entry process is straightforward, and the exposure your park will receive through various media channels can lead to increased bookings and customer trust.

Don’t miss out on this chance to highlight your park’s exceptional offerings, from state-of-the-art swimming pools to luxurious spas and wellness facilities. Enter the UK Pool & Spa Awards today and let your park shine as a beacon of excellence in the holiday and leisure industry.

Entries close in September 2024, don’t delay and enter your facilities today!

 

DEMAND SURGE FOR PINELOG’S DOG FRIENDLY TIMBER LODGE DESIGNS

Posted on August 7, 2024

Pinelog Ltd has seen a rise in demand for its dog-friendly timber lodges, driven by increased dog ownership during the pandemic and a growing staycation market. Chairman Nick Grayson attributes this trend to pet owners viewing dogs as family members, prompting them to seek accommodations that cater to pets.

He noted that holiday park customers are capitalizing on this trend, resulting in more orders for pet-friendly lodges. Dog boarding can cost about £125 for seven nights, so bringing pets on holiday can save money for owners. Research from Verdant Leisure supports this trend, showing 40% of people look for pet-friendly facilities when choosing UK holiday destinations.

Pinelog’s lodges feature amenities like stable doors, vinyl flooring, dog showers, and ‘Mucky Pup’ hoses to cater to pets. Kelling Heath Holiday Park in Norfolk is introducing dog-friendly Woodland lodges in 2024, designed and built by Pinelog with external dog showers among other features.

Similarly, Darwin Forest Luxury Lodges Holiday Park in Derbyshire, owned by Pinelodge Holidays, offers pet-friendly lodges with spacious verandas, outdoor washing facilities, and utility areas with stable doors. The Coppice Spa lodges also feature a unique doggy shower. These lodges, introduced in 2018, have been popular with guests.

Caroline Povey, Associate Marketing Director of Pinelodge Holidays, mentioned that pet-friendly lodges have broadened their market. Lodges with hot tubs and pet-friendly features, especially the Coppice Spa lodges, have the highest occupancy rates.

Nick Grayson added that these designs are ideal for parks like Darwin Forest and Kelling Heath, which offer ample dog walking opportunities. Pinelog’s pet-friendly lodges can be customized to meet the needs of holiday parks. Designed and built at their Chesterfield facility, these luxury timber lodges are an attractive option for holiday parks looking to tap into the staycation market.

Pinelog
01246 942842
www.pinelog.co.uk

THE GLADE by Pinelog are all bespoke and can include a dog shower.

DIGITAL DESTINATIONS

Posted on August 7, 2024

In an era where the digital landscape continually reshapes our everyday experiences, the realm of holiday bookings for parks, caravan parks, campsites and glamping sites are no exception. As the tourism and hospitality industries continually adapts to technological advancements, online booking systems and apps have become indispensable tools, revolutionising how holidaymakers plan and secure their outdoor escapes.

Traditionally, booking a holiday involved a series of phone calls, emails, or even in-person visits. This method, while effective in its time, was often cumbersome and time-consuming. The advent of the internet and the expansion of smartphones have dramatically transformed this process, offering seamless and efficient booking solutions that cater to both operators and customers.

Modern online booking systems and apps streamline the reservation process, providing a host of benefits that enhance the overall holiday experience. These digital platforms offer real-time availability, instant confirmations, secure payment gateways, and personalized services, ensuring that both the holidaymaker and the operator can manage bookings with ease and confidence.

Today’s leisure guests have higher expectations than ever of the hospitality venues they visit – and there’s no doubt this extends to their stays at holiday parks too. Guests are looking for convenient, completely stress-free experiences, and technology that can help facilitate seamless experiences, including booking tools and apps, will be key to meeting these expectations. By digitalising booking processes across the site, holiday park operators will be able to improve the guest experience, leverage these tools to help boost revenue, and free up valuable staff time, allowing them to focus their attention on guests.

BOOSTING ON-PARK SPEND
A user-friendly booking system makes it effortless for guests to explore and reserve on-site experiences. Making it easy for guests to book activities, dine at restaurants, and enjoy other amenities will maximise their enjoyment, as well as generate revenue.

By streamlining the booking process, guests are also less likely to seek alternative entertainment off-site. Online booking systems also offer avenues for strategic upselling. The booking journey can be designed to naturally nudge guests towards additional items during a reservation process. For instance, the system might suggest pairing dinner with pre-arrival cocktails or a celebratory bottle of sparkling wine on arrival at the on-site restaurant.

This strategic approach can increase revenue and can enhance the overall dining experience According to our research, nearly half of holidaymakers are interested in loyalty programmes which presents a clear opportunity to incentivise additional spending and encourage longer stays.

By having a digital booking system in place, operators can leverage their booking system data to craft targeted promotions and packages based on guest preferences or past booking history. This can be anything from offering discounts on activities enjoyed during a previous stay to enticing deals on extended getaways. Having all this tech fully integrated – from bookings to loyalty schemes – also makes it easier for staff to manage and for guests to use.

THIS STRAIGHTFORWARD usability not only streamlines daily tasks but also reduces training time.

BEYOND REVENUE
The right technology can go beyond just boosting revenue, it can also contribute to creating a truly exceptional guest experience. Table reservation technology, for example, empowers guests by putting control at their fingertips. With the right platform in place, guests can not only reserve a table at their favourite on-site restaurants but also browse and book exciting activities, amenities and events.

This level of control over the customer journey caters to individual needs and saves precious holiday time. Such systems also eliminate guest frustrations such as having to queue for a table and ensures a smooth dining experience. With digital booking systems, both staff and guests are also able to view live table availability – this helps manage guest expectation whilst helping teams better manage busy periods.

Meanwhile ordering technology, such as click-and-collect or order-and-pay apps, can help boost revenues by enabling guests to pre-order meals for convenient pick-up or in-accommodation delivery. In fact, research shows a strong preference for services like breakfast delivery and on-site takeaway, highlighting areas where holiday parks can cater to guest convenience.

At Zonal, we worked with Shorefield Holidays to develop a branded, feature-rich customer app, fully- integrated with their EPoS, to give guests more control over their dining experience during their stay, complete with deliver-to-location functionality to enable meals to be delivered straight to their accommodation. Not only does the guest experience improve, but booking technology integrated with other park systems can significantly reduce pressure on staff.

For example, an integrated booking and table management system eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving staff time and minimising errors. This allows staff to focus on providing exceptional guest service and creating a welcoming atmosphere. By implementing such strategies, you can create a win-win situation for your holiday park – happier guests and boosted profits.

ROBERTS GROUP has once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence by incorporating GemaPark.

SUCCESS STORY
Nestled along the serene banks of the River Glaslyn in the heart of Snowdonia, Cae Du Caravan and Camping Park has beautiful panoramic sea views. Known for their family-run charm and numerous scenic sites across North Wales, the Roberts Group has once again demonstrated their commitment to excellence by incorporating GemaPark as the park management and booking system for Cae Du.

We spoke with Rachel, the new manager at Cae Du, to uncover the reasons behind this strategic choice and its impact on their operations. Rachel, brimming with enthusiasm about the new system, shared her insights. “Other sites within the group were using GemaPark and had nothing but good things to say about it. Coming from a completely different system myself, I wanted a system that was easy to use, would save time when making bookings, and provide easy access to make changes.

I also wanted check-in to be as easy as possible and by using GemaPark, this has definitely been a big upgrade.” Her emphasis on user-friendliness and efficiency underscores the critical needs of a busy holiday park like Cae Du, where smooth and quick operations are essential for both staff and guests. Transitioning to a new system can be a daunting task, especially for a site as large as Cae Du.

Rachel highlighted how GemaPark met their specific needs. “Due to us being such a big site, GemaPark makes us feel in control of our park at all times, which is exactly what we need. Especially with it being our first year at the park, we are learning so much about it.” GemaPark’s ability to provide control and adaptability has clearly been a success for the new management team, ensuring a strong operational foundation from day one.

WITH GEMAPARK you benefit from updates as they happen so the system you are using is never outdated.

A significant advantage of GemaPark is its ease of use, a factor that Rachel greatly appreciates. “GemaPark is a very efficient system which I have found very simple to train office staff on. The help guide is a brilliant addition and always there as a reminder. I like the process of making bookings as it is easy to explain how to use, and everything is very clear on the screen.”

This straightforward usability not only streamlines daily tasks but also reduces training time, allowing new staff members to quickly get up to speed. Rachel also praised the support network provided by GemaPark. “GemaPark are certainly there when you need them and it’s a great relief to know they are when you have a problem. Every ticket I have raised has been dealt with quickly and efficiently.

As everything was brand new to us there were a lot of questions so I raised a lot of tickets. Really happy with everything, it’s a great support network.” The prompt and effective support from GemaPark ensures that any issues are swiftly resolved, enabling the Cae Du team to maintain high standards of service. GemaPark is an internet-based park management and booking system designed to cater to a variety of needs, from self-catering and glamping to touring, camping, holiday homes, storage, and long-term lets.

Its comprehensive features and user-centric design make it an ideal solution for managing diverse holiday park requirements. With the adoption of GemaPark, Cae Du Caravan and Camping Park is well-equipped to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience for all its visitors, reinforcing the Roberts Group’s reputation for excellence in hospitality across North Wales.

With a growing Cloud booking system such as GemaPark you benefit from updates as they happen so the system you are using is never out of date. Making the most of the new features can also require your input. At the end of each season it is important to check out what new features have been added and seeing if you want to work them into your system.

GEMAPARK IS A VERY EFFICIENT system which I have found very simple to train office staff on.

For example for 2024/25 GemaPark has added Dynamic pricing, Group bookings, Gift Vouchers, Additional accounting features, Full two way Hoseasons integration, ePitch integration, TXGB to name but a few. GemaPark offer a free online review meeting to all our clients whenever they want it to ensure they are getting the most out of the system.

The digital revolution has undoubtedly transformed the way holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites manage bookings and engage with customers. Online booking systems and apps offer a plethora of benefits, from increased efficiency and customer satisfaction to valuable data insights and enhanced marketing capabilities.

While challenges exist, the ongoing advancements in technology and the increasing demand for convenient, personalized experiences ensure that these platforms will continue to play a pivotal role in the tourism and hospitality industries. For operators, embracing this digital transformation is not just an option but a necessity.

By investing in robust online booking systems and staying abreast of emerging trends, they can remain competitive, attract a global audience, and deliver exceptional holiday experiences. As we look to the future, the possibilities for innovation and growth in this sector are limitless, promising exciting times ahead for both operators and holidaymakers alike.

Cae Du Farm
01654 711234
www.caeducampsite.co.uk

GemaPark
01983 282 420
www.gemapark.co.uk

Roberts Group
01758 719417
www.robertsgroup.wales

Zonal
0800 131 3400
www.zonal.co.uk/holidayparks

PLAY FOR KEEPS

Posted on August 7, 2024

The allure of holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites lie in their ability to offer a break from the routine, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity for families to create lasting memories. Central to this experience is the provision of high-quality outdoor play areas.

These spaces not only enhance the holiday experience for children but also provide a significant return on investment (ROI) for the business owners by attracting and retaining guests. Children’s play is a crucial aspect of development, fostering physical, social, and cognitive growth.
In today’s digital age, encouraging children to step away from screens and engage in physical activity is more important than ever. Play areas in leisure settings serve as a catalyst for this shift, offering children a safe and stimulating environment to explore and have fun.

For parents, knowing that their children are happy and engaged allows them to relax and enjoy their holiday, making the overall experience more enjoyable for the entire family. High-quality play provisions are more than just an added amenity, they are a strategic investment.
According to Proludic’s research, 93% of visitors consider play areas an important factor when choosing a holiday park, leisure, or visitor attraction. This statistic underscores the significant influence that play areas have on consumer decisions, making them a key component of successful holiday venues.

ALL OF WICKSTEED’S products are tested to the appropriate British and European Safety standards.

CREATING MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
Playgrounds contribute to creating memorable experiences that families cherish. Proludic’s findings highlight that the most cherished memories from holidays often stem from the joy and adventure experienced in play areas.
In an era where unique experiences drive consumer choices, leisure businesses that prioritize high-quality, well-designed playgrounds can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. These positive experiences foster brand loyalty and generate positive online reviews, enhancing the reputation of the holiday park.

As guests share their positive experiences with others, either through word-of-mouth or online platforms, the park gains increased visibility and attracts new visitors, thereby ensuring a steady flow of guests and repeat visits. Wooda Farm Holiday Park in North Cornwall exemplifies the impact of investing in play areas. The park recently revamped its play area to reflect the local North Devon coastline incorporating new vibrant play equipment.
This investment not only enhanced the park’s appeal but also provided children with an engaging and enjoyable environment. The timely delivery of the new play area by Proludic ensured that it was ready for the busy holiday season, contributing to a successful and profitable period for the park.

PROLUDIC STRIVES TO ENSURE that their play areas cater to the needs of children from toddlers through to teenagers.

THE FINANCIAL UPSIDE OF PLAY PROVISIONS
Demonstrating ROI on play area investments can be challenging, but strategic planning can yield significant financial benefits. Siting play areas near cafes and other paid leisure facilities can boost revenue by encouraging families to spend more time and money on-site.
Parents can enjoy a coffee or a meal while their children play nearby, creating a win-win situation for both the families and the park operators. Proludic’s primary research supports this approach, indicating that well-placed and high-quality play areas are a compelling factor for visitors. This evidence highlights the financial viability of investing in play areas as part of a broader strategy to enhance visitor satisfaction and increase on-site spending.

INCLUSIVE PLAY
Inclusivity is a key consideration in the design of modern play areas. Ensuring that play spaces cater to children of all abilities not only promotes social integration but also aligns with principles of diversity and equality. Proludic and Wicksteed, two leading providers of play equipment, emphasise the importance of inclusive play spaces.
By offering equipment that accommodates a wide range of abilities, these companies help create environments where all children can participate in play. Inclusive play areas are not just about meeting legal requirements; they demonstrate a commitment to providing a welcoming environment for every guest. This approach enhances the overall appeal of the holiday park, making it an attractive option for families with children of varying abilities.

WICKSTEED HAVE PROUDLY BEEN manufacturing playgrounds in the heart of the UK for more than 100 years

THE ROLE OF QUALITY AND SAFETY
Wicksteed have proudly been manufacturing playgrounds in the heart of the UK for more than 100 years, making them the UK’s premier Outdoor Playground, Leisure and Fitness Manufacturer. As the exclusive UK partner and sole distributor of Berliner Seilfabrik and having recently partnered with Russell Play, we offer a diverse range of distinctive outdoor play equipment, showcasing remarkable imagination and creativity within the market.

Their industry-leading, comprehensive warranties are a testament to the longevity and durability of their products, and also offer a wide range of warranty terms to cover various components, demonstrating their commitment to delivering high-quality solutions that stand the test of time.

As a UK-based company, they are uniquely positioned to provide efficient and responsive support for all your outdoor playground needs. Their headquarters in Kettering serve as a hub of readily available spares, enabling them to swiftly address maintenance requirements and minimise downtime for valued customers.

This proximity to spare parts translates to a faster turnaround, ensuring that your play equipment remains in optimal condition and ready for enjoyment. With the focus on accessibility, they take pride in delivering prompt solutions, enhancing the overall experience of working with them.

PROLUDIC’S RESEARCH found that memorable experiences created through play are often the most cherished by visitors.

DESIGNING OR UPDATING PLAY AREAS:
KEY CONSIDERATIONS When designing or updating play areas, several key considerations can help maximize their impact:
1. Age Inclusivity:
Play areas should cater to various age groups, ensuring that children of different ages find suitable activities. This inclusivity broadens the park’s appeal and keeps visitors engaged.

2. Inclusive Equipment:
Incorporating inclusive play equipment ensures that children of all abilities can participate. This fosters a sense of belonging and promotes social integration.

3. Themed Play Areas:
Themed play areas, like the coastal-themed playground at Wooda Farm Holiday Park, can create a unique and memorable experience that reflects the local environment.

4. Safety and Durability:
High-quality, durable equipment that meets safety standards is essential. This not only ensures the safety of children but also reduces maintenance costs and downtime.

5. Strategic Placement:
Placing play areas near cafes and other paid facilities can boost revenue by encouraging families to spend more time and money on-site.

WICKSTEED’S DESIGN and manufacture bespoke play equipment allowing holiday parks to tailor their play area.

Providers like Proludic and Wicksteed offer comprehensive support, from initial design consultations and cost estimates to installation and ongoing maintenance. Their expertise ensures that play areas are not only fun and engaging but also safe and durable.
Wicksteed’s capability to design and manufacture bespoke play equipment allows holiday parks to tailor play areas to their specific needs and themes. This flexibility ensures that each play area is unique and aligns with the park’s overall branding and environment.

Investing in high-quality, inclusive play areas is a strategic move for holiday parks, caravan parks, campsites, and glamping sites. These investments enhance visitor experiences, foster brand loyalty, and provide substantial financial returns. By understanding and leveraging the power of play, leisure businesses can create memorable experiences that attract and retain visitors, ensuring long-term success and profitability.
Incorporating diverse, inclusive, and well-designed play areas can transform a holiday park into a preferred destination for families. As the demand for unique and engaging experiences grows, those who prioritize the quality and inclusivity of their play provisions will stand out in the competitive leisure market.

By partnering with experienced providers like Proludic and Wicksteed, holiday parks can ensure that their play areas are not only fun and engaging but also safe, durable, and reflective of their unique identity.

Proludic
0115 982 3980
www.proludic.co.uk

Wicksteed Playgrounds
01536 517028
www.wicksteed.co.uk

Children's play is a crucial aspect of development, fostering physical, social, and cognitive growth.