THE UK’S BIGGEST TOURISM & LEISURE EVENT RETURNS

Posted on November 4, 2025

Taking place on 5-6 November 2025, NEC Birmingham...

The Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the UK’s largest event dedicated to holiday parks, leisure, attractions and rural businesses. Welcoming over 400 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, the show provides a creative space where you can gather ideas and learn from other experts in the field.

Whether you’re an established industry professional seeking fresh concepts or a newcomer looking to maximise your land’s potential, this event provides a unique platform for networking, learning, and innovation.

A HUB FOR INDUSTRY GROWTH AND INSPIRATION
This year’s show brings together three sectors under one roof, Holiday Parks, Family Attractions and Resorts, and Hospitality, creating an unmissable opportunity to explore the latest trends, connect with leading suppliers, and discover innovative solutions to enhance your business.

Plus with the Farm Business Innovation Show running alongside, farmers and landowners can access even more expert guidance on diversification and land optimisation.

EXPERT-LED SEMINARS & INDUSTRY ROUNDTABLES
Gain valuable insights from industry experts through a packed schedule of seminars, workshops, and discussion panels. The show’s keynote, Geoffrey Smith, CEO of Meadow Bay Villages, will open with a fresh perspective on the UK holiday park sector, rethinking the holiday experience through innovation and investment.

Expect thought-provoking discussions, covering key issues, trends, and opportunities that will shape the future of land, leisure, and tourism. This unique platform provides both professionals and newcomers in the industry the opportunity to network, learn and explore new opportunities.

Gain valuable insights from industry experts through a packed schedule of seminars, workshops, and discussion panels.

NEW FOCUS ON HOSPITALITY & VALUE-ADDED SERVICES
For 2025, we’re placing an even stronger emphasis on hospitality offerings, helping holiday park operators and rural businesses expand their services and increase profitability.

Expect tailored insights into enhancing guest experiences, adding premium facilities, and implementing effective marketing strategies to drive success.

YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO CONNECT & GROW
Whether you’re looking to source new products, gain expert advice, or network with industry leaders, the Land Leisure & Tourism Show is the must- attend event to take your business to the next level.

Join us on 5-6 November 2025 at NEC Birmingham and be part of the UK’s most influential event for the tourism sector.
Scan the QR code to register for your free ticket today!

SPEAKERS NOT TO MISS!

MEADOW BAY VILLAGES REIMAGINING THE UK HOLIDAY PARK EXPERIENCE
05 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

Geoffrey Smith, CEO of Meadow Bay Villages, opens the Land Leisure Tourism Show with a fresh perspective on the UK holiday park sector.

Discover how Meadow Bay is rethinking the holiday experience through innovation and investment and explore the opportunities shaping the future of holiday parks and rural leisure.

THE REAL COST OF ENERGY METERING - HEAR FROM PARKS WHO HAVE MADE THE SWITCH
05 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

Join industry leaders and park owners as they share their real experiences with energy metering.

From reducing costs to improving guest satisfaction, hear first-hand what works, what doesn’t, and how.

HOW GULLIVER’S WORLD IS SHAPING TOMORROW’S ATTRACTIONS - JULIE DALTON, MANAGING DIRECTOR - GULLIVER’S THEME PARK RESORTS
06 Nov 2025 @ 10:00 - 10:30
Land, Leisure & Tourism Theatre

In this opening address, Julie Dalton, Managing Director of Gulliver’s Theme Parks and Resorts group, which includes Gulliver’s World, shares the journey of the independent, family-run theme park group as it adapts to shifting visitor expectations and industry challenges.

From launching immersive events and unique guest experiences to navigating changing leisure trends, Julie offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Gulliver’s has evolved its offer while staying true to its core values of affordability, accessibility, and family-first fun.

THIS YEARS MUST-SEE EXHIBTORS INCLUDE: TOP TEN

DRY WEATHER SPARKS CARAVAN FIRE ALERT

Posted on July 31, 2025

With the UK experiencing its driest spring in over a century and the mercury rising fast this summer, Compass, a leading provider of caravan and leisure insurance, is urging static caravan owners to take urgent steps to reduce the risk of fire.

Static caravans are particularly vulnerable during extended periods of hot, dry weather. Their fixed positions, close proximity to neighbouring units, and lightweight construction—often using plastic and thin cladding—can cause fires to spread rapidly.

The added presence of LPG gas cylinders, if not stored or maintained correctly, only heightens the danger. The warning follows a notable surge in fire-related claims. Between June 2022 and May 2023, Compass recorded fire claims totalling over £165,000—more than six times the previous year’s total and representing 10% of all caravan and park home claims.

With summer 2025 expected to rival 2022’s record-breaking heat, the risk is growing. Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, said: “Caravans are a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, but they carry serious fire risks, especially in hot and dry conditions. We’ve seen too many families lose their holiday homes and belongings to fire.

We’re asking everyone to stay vigilant and follow basic safety practices.” Common causes of caravan fires include barbecue use near units, careless disposal of cigarettes, unattended cooking, faulty gas appliances, and electrical faults. Fires in caravans are statistically more likely to result in serious injury or death than those in conventional housing.

"WE'RE ASKING EVERYONE TO STAY VIGILANT AND FOLLOW BASIC SAFETY PRACTICES."

TO HELP PREVENT FIRES, COMPASS ADVISES CARAVAN OWNERS TO:
• Keep barbecues well away from units and dry grass.
• Never smoke inside; use ashtrays and dispose of cigarettes properly.
• Store gas bottles securely outdoors, away from direct sunlight.
• Install and regularly test smoke alarms.
• Avoid open flames—opt for battery-powered lighting.
• Equip caravans with a fire blanket and extinguisher.
• Avoid overloading sockets and have electrics checked regularly.
• Keep all escape routes clear and accessible.

Insurance also plays a key role in recovery after a fire. Compass recommends that caravan owners review their policies to ensure comprehensive fire cover, maintain an inventory of contents, and understand their entitlements to temporary accommodation or replacement items.

“Fire spreads fast, just one spark can be devastating,” Minnear added. “But by taking these simple steps, owners can protect their property and their loved ones. Prevention is always better than cure.”

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compass.co.uk

HOLIDAY PARK ADOPTS FLOOD ADAPTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Posted on May 13, 2025

Weir Caravan Park in Stamford Bridge has become the first site in Yorkshire to install Flood Adaptive Platforms, pioneering flood-resilient holiday accommodation. Developed by Yorkshire-based Flood Technology Group, the innovation allows caravans to automatically elevate in response to rising water levels, offering vital protection against flooding.

This ground breaking initiative not only safeguards the site’s accommodation but also enables the park to secure full flood insurance coverage through specialist provider Compass. The move is part of site owner Kevin Hind’s strategy to future-proof the business in light of increasing flood risks.

The installation follows the recent implementation of a Flood Early Warning System at the park, providing real-time updates to facilitate timely evacuations. Up to ten pitches will eventually feature the flood-responsive platforms.

Simon Gilliland, CEO of Flood Technology Group, emphasized the growing need for such innovations: “With climate change accelerating flood risks, adaptive solutions like ours are essential for holiday parks. Our technology has already proven successful in modular homes and lodges, and we’re seeing rising demand across the UK.”

Kevin Hind added, “This cutting-edge technology provides peace of mind for us and our visitors. The installation was seamless, and we’re confident it’s the best way to protect both people and property.”

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compassparks.co.uk

INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

Posted on May 1, 2025

INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

Compass are specialist providers of insurance to the holiday and residential park industry and have over 40 years’ experience in the sector.

We provide solutions for all of your insurance needs from tailored cover for your park buildings, infrastructure, facilities, machinery, vehicles, employees and liability to bespoke schemes for your private owners and customers as an introducer or appointed representative.

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compassparks.co.uk

OWNERS SHOULD BRACE THEMSELVES

Posted on February 12, 2025

Owners encouraged to take suitable steps to protect their investments...

Following a record number of storms during the last 12 months, static caravan and holiday lodge owners should prepare for an increased risk of storm damage, according to Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance. Strong winds, falling debris and flooding can cause severe structural damage, leaving owners facing costly repairs or replacements.

Recent weather events, such as Storm Ashley and Storm Bert, underscore the importance of taking preventative measures and securing comprehensive insurance coverage, particularly in coastal and rural areas popular with caravan owners.

Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, said: “Static caravans are vulnerable to extreme weather, due to their fixed nature and exposed locations. We’ve already seen significant amounts of storm damage in 2024, with insurance claims currently exceeding £430,000. *Now that we are entering storm season, caravan owners should take appropriate preventative measures.”

The UK weather is hard to predict and, with flood and storm damage accounting for around 62% of all the claims Compass has received this year**, the company is keen to stress the importance of preparing for all eventualities. To prepare for the unpredictable UK weather, Compass is encouraging static caravan owners to review their insurance policies.

In addition, the company recommends taking steps such as securing the exterior and reinforcing anchoring systems to keep caravans firmly in place during high winds. Loose items, such as garden furniture or decorations, should be removed to prevent them from becoming projectiles in stormy conditions.

Roofs, windows, sidings and seals should be checked for vulnerabilities, with barriers also fitted in areas prone to flooding. Minnear continued: “Unlike bricks and mortar holiday homes, static caravans are particularly susceptible to damage from storms, so being suitably prepared can make all the difference.

As a result, caravan owners should make sure they have adequate insurance in place, as this can significantly reduce stress and financial burden. On top of offering vital protection against storm damage, other benefits can include emergency assistance for repairs, as well as support for alternative accommodation during repair periods.

Minnear continued: “Time is critical when dealing with storm damage. Fortunately, our policies are designed to provide swift support, helping our customers get back to enjoying their static caravans again as soon as possible.”

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compass.co.uk

*Data collected from Compass static caravan/park home claims in the past 12 months

** Figure calculated from Compass static caravan/park home claims from 1 January 2024 to 22 November 2024

On top of offering vital protection against storm damage, other benefits can include emergency assistance for repairs.

COMPASS INSURANCE HAS PARTNERED UP WITH HOLIDAYMAKER PARK APPS

Posted on November 7, 2024

Compass Insurance has partnered with Dorset-based technology start-up, Holidaymaker, to support its mission to bolster the holiday park and hospitality industry with cutting edge guest engagement technology.

As part of this partnership, content from Compass will feature across holiday park apps powered by the Holidaymaker platform. Providing guests with reliable information on holiday home insurance, and holiday parks with the reassurance of accurate and validated guidance from an FCA regulated business.

In 2020, the Holidaymaker guest experience app was created to drive revenue, boost brand loyalty, and increase repeat business for hospitality brands. The founding aim of Holidaymaker was to develop a technology that revolutionises the way businesses in the sector connect with guests.

Karen Stacey, Managing Director at Compass Insurance, explained: “We are delighted to partner with Holidaymaker to strengthen the relationship between us and holiday parks across the UK. By providing support and advice on insurance related content on holiday park life hosted within the Holidaymaker app, Compass is demonstrating how dedicated it is to helping parks build loyalty and trust with their customers”

Commenting on the partnership, David McRobbie, Co-Founder of Holidaymaker, said: “Trusted partnerships with leading and respected businesses within the hospitality sector is a vital part of growing the Holidaymaker platform for the benefit of all our clients. By working with experts, we can continue to ensure the best possible products and services.

The partnership with Compass, furthers Holidaymaker’s mission to create a supportive platform for the industry, that not only provides technology such as guest, staff and owner apps, digital screens and kiosks and flexible sales channels but shares knowledge and insights that drive the whole sector forward.

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compassparks.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

DON’T SLIP UP!

Posted on March 13, 2024

DON’T SLIP UP!

Freezing temperatures trigger increased claims...

Compass, the insurance specialist, has issued warnings to static caravan owners to prepare early for freezing conditions this winter. With a 115% increase in claims for freezing pipes and escape of water year on year, almost 80% of December 2022’s claims were as a result of extreme cold weather.

Static caravan and lodge owners must prepare their holiday homes for winter as per the terms of their policy or risk claims being rejected, according to Compass. The company saw a 115% increase in total claims caused by cold weather in 2022 compared to 2021. Almost 80% of total claims in December 2022 were due to damage caused by plunging temperatures, as the UK was gripped by the coldest start to meteorological winter since 2010.

During December 2022 alone, claims increased by 66% year-on-year compared to the same month the year before. Long-range weather experts are already predicting that another cold snap is on the way this winter, with a higher risk of snowfall caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon.

This typically brings colder, drier weather to northern Europe due to the jet stream shifting course. With the UK’s weather becoming increasingly unpredictable, Compass is warning static caravan and lodge owners to ensure their unit is winter-ready to mitigate the risk of damage and to allow for claims to be processed quickly if the worst should still happen, despite all precautionary measures being followed.

WATER ESCAPE
With escape of water being the main cause of damage following freezing weather conditions, static caravan and lodge owners need to ensure that they complete a full drain down of their unit prior to leaving it unattended during winter. While owners may assume that this responsibility falls to the park, performing a drain down is a condition within most insurance policies, making the owner and not the park, liable for any damage that occurs.

Karen Stacey, Managing Director of Compass explains: “Turning off the water and opening the stopcock valves is not sufficient, and does not constitute a full drain down, as the shower mixer valve, taps, and some components in the water heater are still exposed to risk if temperatures drop.” As well as turning off the water supply and opening stopcock valves, there are several other important steps in the process of draining down, including:

• Turning on the heating.
• Opening the caravan’s external taps, usually located underneath the structure.
• Turning on all taps, flushing toilets, and running the shower, as well as removing the shower head and connecting pipe to remove as much water from the plumbing system as possible.
• Removing any remaining water by blowing compressed air through the pipes.
• Using non-toxic anti-freeze where standing water may remain, such as in toilets and down plug holes.
• Securing all windows, skylights, and doors to prevent cold air from entering the unit. Checking any external plumbing and insulating any exposed pipes from the cold.

ALMOST 80% of December 2022’s claims were as a result of extreme cold weather, report Compass.

Stacey continued: “A lot of parks provide a drain down service, and owners should take advantage of this. However, it’s important not to leave this too late, as parks may have hundreds of units to complete, and weather conditions can change very quickly, as we have seen this October.

“If a park does not offer this service, and the owner does not feel confident doing the drain down themselves, they can hire a professional to do this for them. Even units with an automatic drain down system installed may not be covered in the event of a loss, as all precautionary measures need to be taken into account.

“With claims relating to damage caused by frozen pipes and escape of water ranging from a few hundred pounds to a total loss, we urge caravan and lodge owners to take the necessary action to protect their holiday home during the winter months as soon as possible.”

STORM HENK
With more wet weather forecast, and reports of flooding in areas which have previously been unaffected, there have been a number of holiday parks impacted across the UK, Compass warns. Karen adds: “The first storm of 2024, Storm Henk, has caused significant flood damage to holiday caravans across the UK.

“Our stats show that storm and flood damage make up 32% of insurance claims, and in one such instance, an entire static caravan was destroyed during a storm, resulting in a £148,590 claim. “In flood-prone areas, holiday home owners may need to check that their policy does not have flood-related restrictions or requirements, such as fitting a floatation device.

While floods cannot be predicted or prevented entirely, having a comprehensive insurance policy in place can help avoid being left out of pocket should the worst happen”.
For more information on specialist caravan and leisure insurance, visit www.compassparks.co.uk

Compass Insurance
0344 274 0276
www.compassparks.co.uk

MIND-BENDING CHALLENGES

Posted on March 12, 2024

MIND-BENDING CHALLENGES

Reporting from the Hoseasons Owners Conference & Awards...

THE ANNUAL HOSEASONS awards were presented at a glittering Gala Awards ceremony.

Hoseasons, one of the UK’s leading self-catering accommodation specialists, with more than 30,000 British destinations in coastal and countryside settings, gathered for its much-anticipated annual conference and awards event recently. From lodges and parks, to boats, cottages and apartments, the Hoseasons brand offers the widest available range of self-catering holidays in the UK accommodating 2.1 million holidaymakers and more than 170,000 pets every year and is part of Awaze - Europe’s leading managed vacation rentals and holiday resorts business.

More than 600 delegates gathered at the prestigious Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, Wales, in November and were rewarded with a packed conference programme and supportive trade exhibition. Many of the conference presenters were from the Awaze in-house team with an impressive injection of expert business and motivational speakers - all topped-off by a star appearance from comedian Tom Allen who co-hosted the Awards presentations.

Lead presenter, Daisy McAndrew, talked about the ‘mind-bending’ challenges holiday park operators had faced in the past ten years following Brexit, the pandemic, war in Ukraine, or five Prime Ministers and the cost-of-living crisis. She set the stage with Hoseason’s Simon Altham. Catherine Smith and Kris Penny gave an insightful talk on revenue management emphasising the importance of effective revenue management strategies for maximising revenue.

SPECIALLY SELECTED TRADE suppliers at the Hoseasons conference including Compass Insurance.

Andrew Goward and Luke Hansford shared key insights and industry trends that are shaping the industry’s future. Daniel Hulme (PhD), an AI and tech expert, shared mind-blowing insights into the future of AI technology before Martin Rovsing and Blake Carroll Fulford-Brown showcased innovative product designs and future technology that will enhance customer experiences. John Crosby’s presentation on Hoseasons’ marketing achievements highlighted the impactful campaigns and strategies Hoseasons have implemented.

Guest presenter, Tori James took delegates on an incredible journey of resilience and determination. Her storytelling was captivating and reminded us of the power of perseverance. Jamaine Campbell from Elite Dynamics, the Headline Sponsor, shared valuable insights on how the company’s partnership has truly elevated holiday park experiences. Adam Boulton, a renowned political broadcaster, discussed the impact of politics on the tourism industry.

His analysis shed light on the challenges and opportunities we may face. Rupa Patel, Laura Smith, and Dan Taylor provided an update on regulatory changes affecting our industry. Their work shapes the new rules to benefit our owners. The business development team discussed innovation and industry trends. They highlighted the importance of collaborating with Hoseasons for new developments.

THE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Panel is a popular part of the annual Hoseasons Conference programme.

Jason Fox inspired delegates with his session on resilience and overcoming challenges. He reminded us that the right mindset can conquer any obstacle before the impressive day-long programme was round-up by Hoseasons CEO, Henrik Kjellberg. Delegates included Gregg Mumford, Chief Executive of Richardsons Group that offers varied accommodation at its Hemsby Beach Holiday Park as well as holidays afloat on a fleet of over 200 boats on the Norfolk Broads.

Greg said they offer a combination of direct bookings and bookings through Hoseasons with slightly more coming through Hoseasons for the dry holidays and 60 per cent booking directly for boats. He confirmed “One of the main things you get working with Hoseasons is that you get the overall picture of the domestic tourism market including insights, such as which accommodation types are booking and how well they will yield,” Greg shared when he talked to Holiday Park SCENE magazine.

“The Conference enables everybody to come together and share your insights individually and there is always a great line up of presenters.” Hemsby Beach Holiday Park will offer close to 400 units this year following the addition of pet-friendly lodges with hot tubs. The resort also offers a popular Clubhouse, a show bar that seats 420 people, restaurant and family entertainment centre. The Hemsby team also work with Hoseason’s Go Active scheme offering climbing walls, and high ropes.

DAISY MCANDREW set the stage with Hoseason’s Simon Altham.

“One of our biggest challenges is predicting the market year on year and Hoseasons are great with statistics and advice on this,” Greg adds. “The external speakers are very good but it is equally important to hear from the Hoseasons team and I value the panel discussion they have.” Sarah and Jeremy Barber, now working alongside son-in-law Richard Broome, began diversifying their 357 acres of rolling farm land in 2016 adding just three holiday lodges and evolving up to a current stock of 16 holiday lodges with hot tubs.

“We have only booked through Hoseasons right from the start,” said Jeremy. “Although they book through Hoseasons, we like to offer the personal touch and make an effort to give each lodge plenty of space and a friendly greeting on arrival,” he continued. “We did not come to the conference at first because we did not release how much was on offer,” he said. “We have really appreciated the Hoseasons involvement and the return on holiday lodge investment has been colossal,” he added.

Love2Stay owner, Mark Debb, of Salop Leisure was an enthusiastic supporter: “The Hoseasons reach is phenomenal,” says Mark who says the stand-out resort still manages to retain its individuality while benefitting from the multi-million Hoseason reach. “We want as much return as possible to reinvest as much as feasible,” says Mark who says with raw materials increases it is now taking two and a half years to see a return on investment of a £45k lodge compared with 12 months pre-pandemic.

DELEGATES MINGLED with a host of selected trade suppliers for a complimentary exhibition.

BEST IN BRITAIN
A prestigious roll of honour at the evening awards presentations heard Henlle Hall Woodland Lodges, near Oswestry, had scooped the Best in Britain Award for the Small Park category for the second year in a row. The park was also named Best Small Lodge Escape destination in the Heart of England.

Commenting on the park’s success, Cosmo Lloyd and Keeta Thomas, Joint Owners of Henlle Hall Woodland Lodges, said: “We were really pleased to be recognised with the regional award, but being named Best in Britain for the second-year running has really blown us away! In the end it all comes down to the hard work the team puts into looking after our guests. They do a fantastic job when it comes to providing excellent holiday experiences and that’s why we have so many happy customers.”

Henlle Hall Woodland Lodges is part of Hoseasons’ Magnificent collection – encompassing six locations across the UK featuring the highest level of luxury accommodation, service and innovation. Another hat-trick winner was Selsey Holiday Park, named Best in Britain for the quality of its food by staycation specialist Hoseasons. The park also won the Customer Choice Food Award for Family Fun Destinations as well as the award for the Best Family Fun Destination in the South of England.

HOSEASONS SURPRISED party-goers as top comedian Tom Allen co-hosted the recent awards.

Andrew Sheerin, Sales & Marketing Director at Cove UK, the parent company of Seal Bay, said: “Winning three awards in one night, including one for being the Best in Britain, has really blown us away! In the end it all comes down to the hard work and dedication the team puts into looking after our guests. They do a fantastic job and that’s why we have so many happy customers.”

Speaking after presenting the awards in front of more than 600 operators, industry suppliers and members of the Hoseasons team, Luke Hansford, Senior Vice President - Supply at Hoseasons, said: “It takes something special to be named Best of Britain at these awards, particularly when you consider the quality of the competition.

UNLOCKING YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL

Posted on October 24, 2023

UNLOCKING YOUR BUSINESS POTENTIAL

Looking forward to an unmissable event...

HOLIDAY PARK & RESORT INNOVATION visitors can explore showcases offering an extensive range of products and services.

If you’re eager to stay ahead in the industry and unlock the latest trends, innovations and strategies to take your business to new heights, then mark your calendar for November 15th and 16th and set your SAT NAV to Birmingham’s NEC! The countdown is on to Holiday Park & Resort Innovation, the UK’s premier event for holiday park and resort professionals at the NEC Birmingham this November 15th and 16th.

The event will once again run concurrently with three other shows – Farm Business Innovation, Family Attraction Expo, and Leisure Food & Beverage Expo. Together, the four shows form the largest event for businesses in the fields of land, leisure, and tourism.

Whether you’re a seasoned industry player, or exploring the idea of starting your own business, join Holiday Park Innovation to discover cutting-edge products, strategies and insights to stay ahead in the leisure, hospitality and tourism industry.

The 2023 event promises to be the best yet, with visitors getting the opportunity to explore exhibition space spanning two halls that showcases an extensive range of products and services essential for building successful holiday businesses, as well as getting valuable updates and inspiration from the show’s insightful speaker programme.

TOURISM SECTOR
With new innovations reshaping the UK tourism sector by improving the planning and booking process, enhancing customer experience, promoting sustainability, and providing valuable insights to businesses, technology is a key theme through the exhibition halls and seminar programme.

Immerse yourself in a world of pioneering innovation, with 420 exhibitors across the four shows showcasing tailored products and services designed to meet your unique needs.

Confirmed exhibitors include Swift – the UK’s largest manufacturer of touring caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes, Hoseasons, TouchWood Play, the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, Tiny House Pro, Creative Play, Dale Leisure Supplies, Cubicle Works, Clear Sky Safari Tents, Innovative Leisure, Volta Compliance and Go Low Carbon.

Every aspect of providing a first-class holiday experience will be covered – from planning consultancy and booking management software, to safari tents, outdoor play equipment and washroom solutions.

THE HOLIDAY PARK & RESORT Innovation event covers every aspect of providing a first-class holiday experience.

SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS
The extensive seminar schedule across both days of the show features experts from a wide range of specialisms sharing top tips and advice for start-ups and existing businesses. Across both the Keynote Theatre programme – sponsored by Cottages.com and Hoseasons – and the Seminar Theatre - sponsored by Maxxton – you can hear from dozens of industry experts across 90 sessions.

Tom Clark is General Manager of Brit Stops, and will host a seminar at the show. “From a small family business and passion project, we have grown Brit Stops into an established and recognised brand within the motorhome industry. At the show we’ll share our focus on driving innovation and expansion at Brit Stops and supporting the next chapter of UK motorhome tourism.”

Gillian Hare and Brodie Farrow of Pitchup.com will reflect on post-pandemic trends. “Rather than representing a one-off peak, the pandemic kickstarted a legacy of outdoor holidaying that will continue to benefit the industry for years to come,” says Gillian. “We’ll talk about emerging trends and provide tips on how you can successfully ride the new wave of outdoor tourism, including case studies from those that have been there and done it.”

WITH LONGER OPENING TIMES this year, Holiday Park & Resort Innovation looks to be the best ever.

NEW ZONE
New for this year is ‘Great Taste of the Country’ a dedicated zone for independent food businesses which will feature live culinary demonstrations, providing an opportunity for businesses to showcase their products in action. The line-up includes popular food brands Hello Fresh, Devil’s Bridge Rum, and My Gyros.

Verity Hyland, Events Director for Agriconnect, said “As the UK tourism industry continues to thrive, many business owners are looking to invest in their businesses with new innovations and diversification options,” she said. “Holiday Park & Resort Innovation provides a unique platform to learn from a diverse range of experts, connect with like-minded rural entrepreneurs, and acquire actionable takeaways to enhance the profitability and sustainability of your business.”

With longer opening times this year from 9am to 5pm on day one and 9am to 4pm on day two, entry to Holiday Park & Resort Innovation, and the other three events, is free of charge.