Top Tourism Finalists

Posted on June 10, 2015

Seafield Caravan Park in Northumberland took gold in the Holiday Park of the Year category in last year’s VisitEngland Awards and has been announced as a finalist in the 2015 competition.

Top Tourism Finalists

Five holiday parks are among 75 finalists chosen from across the country in this year’s VisitEngland Awards for Excellence.

On the shortlist in the Holiday Park or Holiday Village of the Year category is Cofton Country Holidays in Devon, Poston Mill Park in Herefordshire, Seafield Caravan Park in Northumberland, Searles Leisure Resort in Norfolk and Trethem Mill Touring Park in Cornwall.

The Awards recognise businesses that incorporate best practice and demonstrate excellence in customer service throughout their operation.

Winners of each of the 17 categories will be announced at an awards ceremony at the Sage Gateshead conference centre on 11 May with each finalist guaranteed a gold, silver, bronze or highly commended in the category.

A Matter Of Convenience

Posted on June 3, 2015

A Matter Of Convenience

Guests expect a certain level of comfort and luxury and the washrooms facilities are a big part of those expectations that will leave a lasting impression. Pic: Commercial Washrooms

As the saying goes, if you want to know what a venue is really like – check out the loos. Anyone who has ever been in an uncomfortable and poorly laid out public washroom will value the importance of good toilet design. The increased demands placed on heavily used facilities require careful consideration and planning. It goes without saying that well-designed washrooms should at least be clean, dry, well ventilated and user friendly.

Modern designs continue to become ever more stylish, sophisticated and eco-friendly, from urinals with television screens to all-in-one toilet, sink and vanity table units. But Mike Bone managing director of the Loo of the Year awards advises that it is often the little things that go a long way in providing outstanding washroom facilities. “Award winning holiday park toilets have the ‘wow factor’ as they provide attractive loos that make away from home toilet use a pleasure, not a concern,” says Mike. “Fresh flowers, excellent ventilation, dry floors, constant availability of toilet tissue and hand wash soap and a safe and hygienic environment separate winning loos from those that will deter visitors from booking again.”

ESSENTIAL PROVISIONS

Last year 67 per cent of the holiday parks that entered the prestigious Loo of the Year Awards achieved the highest Platinum grade for their washroom facilities. The awards provide a valuable monitor of the standard of the essential provision of park toilets. In addition to gaining an independent assessment and grading of their toilet facilities, entrants also gain recognition and benchmarking for their parks. Mike adds: “Holiday park guests are away from home and expect the standards in the parks toilets and showers to be at least to the standard they set at home. They will return to those parks that provide the toilet facilities that meet their needs and avoid those that don’t.” Paul Wonnacott, managing director of Vectair Systems agrees that holiday parks should be prioritising washrooms as part of the overall customer experience: “It is not just about the toilet actually being clean, it is also about perception. “With so many online reviews now being uploaded, holiday parks need to smarten up their washrooms.

Long Meadow Campsite in the New Forest opted for cubicles and vanity units in the colours of their logo. Pic: Commercial Washrooms.

Cleanliness is a key consideration when people book their holidays – if the washroom isn’t clean, is the kitchen? What about the rooms?” Vectair Systems manufacture and supply holiday parks with cleaning and hygiene products including soap dispensers, luxurious soaps, surface cleaners, air fresheners, odour removers and urinal screens. Paul reveals that ‘touch free’ equipment, where the individual doesn’t have to touch anything to wash their hands is a buzzword at the moment when it comes to current washroom trends. “Customers want easyto- use systems that are safe and effective. For example, automatic soap dispensers are popular now as they are ‘touch free’ and therefore are quick and hygienic,” says Paul. He adds: “The Ebola outbreak has been an important reminder to those who do have access to clean water and sanitation, of how lucky we really are. It also serves as a reminder to us as individuals to make sure we wash our hands regularly – and to venues to ensure they provide the right services for us to do that.” Another trend and one that has come over from Asia, is that washroom systems are quiet and discreet. Ladies washrooms especially require systems that don’t make a lot of noise, enabling females to dispose of sanitary waste discreetly.

AUTOMATIC CONTROL

Automatic sensor controlled sanitary ware and taps is another popular trend in washrooms at the moment. As well as being environmentally friendly, substantial cost savings can be made by limiting the water that is used from the taps, toilets and urinals and by preventing taps from being left running. Paul comments: “As for a trend that is still hanging on in there – we believe it is the co-ordinated washroom. Although not a trend in all countries, many European countries and holiday parks prefer their washroom dispensers to match, although the traditional white is perhaps now on par with new offerings like chrome and black.” For those that are considering upgrading their washroom facilities, it’s worth seeking expert advice from a reputable company that can advise on all aspects of construction, design and building regulations that should be adhered to.

INVEST WISELY

3D drawings by Commercial Washrooms allow the customer to see exactly how the washroom will look during the planning stage.

“When considering a new build washroom block or refurbishing an existing facility there are many building related health and safety issues to consider,” explains Andy Seddon of Commercial Washrooms. “Depending on the scale of the development the project is likely to be affected by the CDM regulations as well as local authority building control. Our advice is to appoint and work with a reputable building firm, ideally one who specialises in commercial washroom and toilet refurbishment projects.” Commercial Washrooms is an off-shoot of Lan Services and specialises in a supply only service, supporting companies who wish to self-project-manage their washroom refurbishment or repair project. Andy advises that a full refurbishment of the washroom facilities should be undertaken approximately every 10 years. If the project is properly planned from the outset and the materials, sanitary ware, fixtures and fittings selected carefully for the intended environment and frequency of use then the washrooms should last this long with no trouble what-so-ever. It goes without saying that for the washroom to withstand the extreme use it will no doubt encounter over a decade, it should receive periodic inspection and the replacement of broken or failing parts and regular cleaning maintenance will also prolong the life span of any commercial washroom. Andy also recommends investing wisely in high quality equipment that is durable and hard wearing: “Exploring the different types and qualities of materials on offer is essential.

Editorial Contributors Include:

Bushboard Washroom Systems Tel. 01536 533620 www.bushboard-washrooms.co.uk

Dunhams Washroom Systems Tel. 01603 424855 www.dunhamswashrooms.com

Commercial Washrooms Tel. 01202 650900 www.commercialwashroomsltd.co.uk

Spectrum Cubicles Tel. 01244 333 488 www.spectrumcubicles.com

Vectair Systems Tel. 01256 319500 www.vectairsystems.com

Loo of the Year Aw ards Tel. 01403 258779 www.loo.co.uk

Spotlight On Highlands

Posted on May 29, 2015

Scotland’s tourism minister Fergus Ewing (left) is pictured with David Key, Parkdean Holidays’ regional director for Scotland.

Spotlight On Highlands

Scotland’s tourism minister, Fergus Ewing shone a spotlight on Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park near Inverness during Scottish Tourism Week.

The minister joined local councillors on the park, which is owned by Parkdean Holidays, during the week-long tourism celebration which took place in the first week of March. Fergus Ewing and the local councillors met managers and staff at the park during the visit, and were given a tour of the many facilities.

David Key, Parkdean Holidays’ regional director for Scotland and general manager at Nairn Lochloy, said: “It’s great that Fergus and local politicians came to see why thousands of visitors choose Nairn Lochloy each year. “The park brings a lot to the local community and the Scottish tourism industry. We employ twelve permanent members of staff, and up to fifty during peak season, making this a key employer in the area.”

Fergus Ewing commented: “I welcome the opportunity to visit this impressive holiday home and caravan park. The holiday home and caravan park sectors are playing their part, in not only providing good quality accommodation for all types of visitors, but also helping to sustain employment in some of our most remote and rural areas.”

Hospitality Most Sociable Industry

Posted on May 29, 2015

Those working in the hospitality industry are the most likely to socialise and find life-long friends with people they’ve met through their jobs.

Hospitality Most Sociable Industry

The hospitality industry has been revealed as one of the most sociable sectors to work in with almost half of those surveyed stating that they see colleagues socially at least once a month.

According to the study of 2,792 full-time workers in the UK, those working in hospitality, construction and retail are the most likely to socialise and find life-long friends with individuals they’ve met through their jobs.

Respondents were initially asked if they considered themselves a sociable person whilst at work, with the vast majority (73 per cent) agreeing. Of these participants, 49 per cent stated that they indulge in nights out or social activities with their colleagues at least once a month, with a further 13 per cent admitting their answer was closer to once a week.

Lyndon Wood, CEO and creator of www. constructaquote.com which carried out the survey said: “Considering the fact that we spend more time with our co-workers than our partners, family members or children, it seems pretty crucial that there are individuals within a workplace that we can identify, socialise and become good friends with.

“Not only will having strong friendships within the workplace help ease any stress or pressure that might come alongside the job, they are no doubt key in ensuring high rates of staff retention."

Bunn Leisure Announces Record Year

Posted on May 27, 2015

Bunn Leisure is celebrating its record-breaking 2014 results, which saw an increase in bookings, sales and turnover.

Bunn Leisure Announces Record Year

South coast holiday park Bunn Leisure has announced a record breaking year in 2014, with holiday bookings, turnover and caravan sales all reaching a new high.

The park in Selsey, West Sussex, benefited from last year’s sweltering summer and extended months of opening to post its best ever set of results. The park sold a record 420 caravans with sales up 12 per cent on the previous year. Turnover from bookings at Bunn Leisure and its sister campsite Warner Farm rose significantly, as did income from retail sales and site fees.

The company was also recognised by its industry peers with an award for 20 years of partnership from Hoseasons, a Hoseasons Diamond Award for customer service and a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

John Bunn, managing director of Bunn Leisure said: “Our mission is to provide our owners and guests with a fantastic, fun and safe place to enjoy the traditional British holiday and our aim is to always exceed our customers’ expectations.

“Our success in 2014 shows we are getting the formula right – and we are continuing to invest in Bunn Leisure to grow this successful park where people love to holiday and our staff love to work.”

Park And Leisure Show Hots Up

Posted on May 27, 2015

The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show returns to Stoneleigh Park from 11th – 14th June, offering free entry and free parking.

Park And Leisure Show Hots Up

The UK’s biggest show for leisure lodges and residential park homes will return once again to the grounds of Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire in June.

The World of Park & Leisure Homes Show 2015 is your chance to view over 50 show homes including the launch of several new lodges and homes from the country’s leading manufacturers. Pathfinder Homes will be showcasing their Keepers Lodge, which launched earlier this year and Omar Park & Leisure Homes will be exhibiting a selection of their bestselling homes including the Heritage, the Colorado and the Accent on stand M11. There will also be homes and lodges to view from The Dream Lodge Group, Willerby Holiday Homes and Stately Albion to name a few.

In addition to the display of homes, a host of suppliers will be exhibiting related products and services including decking, coatings, hot tubs, insurance, refurbishment and garages. Be sure to make a beeline for the Quick Move Properties stand – the UK’s largest property part exchange company – where the team of experts will be on hand to offer advice on all aspects of part exchange.

If its spas and hot tubs that you’re interested in, stop by the Superior Spas stand to learn more about their full range of wellness products including spas, steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs. You may also benefit from speaking to the Spaeuro team who can advise on spa filters, parts and accessories.

Show organiser Jo Turner comments: “Our experience shows that 95 per cent of our visitors want to meet owners and operators face to face so they can truly discover what’s on offer.” She adds: “Following its tremendously successful introduction last year, the Trade Preview Day allows park owners, site managers and others working within the industry to come along and view the homes, chat with manufacturers, discover new models and discuss the latest issues and developments.”

The Trade Preview Day is Thursday 11th June and the show will be open to the public Friday 12th – Sunday 14th June. Entry and parking are free and each visitor receives a complimentary show guide.

Keep up to date with the latest show news by visiting www. parkhomeandleisure.co.uk

Exceeding Expectations

Posted on May 20, 2015

Carmenta offers the ideal solution for bespoke projects – both indoors and out.

Exceeding Expectations

They say the trick to full occupancy in the holiday business, is knowing what the punters want…even before they do! Case in point – holiday spas and hot tubs. Once considered an unnecessary nuisance – these days, switched on marketeers, vow the addition of a hot tub will increase the likelihood of an on-line booking by 70 per cent.

Where spas and hot tubs lead, wellness now follows whetting an appetite for sauna, steam, experience showers and a host of relaxation treatments. Leading UK suppliers, Anapos, report a sharp spike in wellness project enquiries in the past nine months. “The increase in interest in the home wellness market puts more pressure, in turn, on commercial venues to constantly raise the bar but they will always look at return compared with investment.

Martyn Wood, national sales director at Anapos Thermal Spa Equipment advises holiday park operators to think carefully about the target audience of their spa offering and recommends providing a bolt-on children’s area, to keep the kids entertained while the adults enjoy the spa. “A good spa facility will attract customers from far afield, so it’s worth investing to put your spa ahead of others in the area.

“The appeal of a spa is the peace and quiet, so keeping to an ‘adults only’ policy is advisable. However, on a holiday park the majority of guests will more than likely be staying with children, so I would suggest offering a children’s play area or club to keep the children amused while the adults enjoy the spa facilities.”

Holiday parks can also benefit from opening the spa up to non-residents. Offering spa day packages and spa weekend breaks can be real money spinners if charged at premium spa prices. For those that are looking to expand their spa offering, or to add a new spa, Martyn suggests offering a selection of elements that will make your spa stand out from the crowd: “As a starting point, a basic spa should ideally include a hydro pool, a minimum of three thermal cabins, around four to six treatment rooms and a nice relaxation area is a must.

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Carry On Glamping

Posted on May 20, 2015

Bespoke yurts from Hearthworks can be customised to suit specific size and layout requirements and optional extras such as wood burning stoves can be included.

Carry On Glamping

Over the past few years we have seen a huge explosion in the popularity of glamping with all manner of yurts, shepherd huts, safari tents and camping pods popping up in quiet corners of the countryside.

Farmers and landowners have been quick to cash in on the potential for diversification as an additional income stream by investing in units on their land. The obvious appeal for holidaymakers is that they can experience the great outdoors, while enjoying the luxury of a boutique hotel, coupled with rustic country charm. The UK festival scene has been one of the main pioneers in organising luxury temporary accommodation for those who aren’t so keen on the mud and the rise of the staycation has also helped push glamping to the forefront.

Now holidaymakers can stay in a huge range of unusual accommodation and it’s this variety, uniqueness and creativity that has a strong appeal to the discerning traveller who wants to holiday somewhere where that will be a real talking point.

Rivendale in the Peak District is one of the many businesses in the UK that has successfully branched into the camping and glamping market. The owners of Rivendale wanted to offer glamping accommodation to increase occupancy in the winter months. Owner Greg Potter comments: “We are one of the few parks in the Peak District National Park that is able to operate 11 months of the year. We know people want to take short breaks in the winter, just not in a tent, that’s why we became interested in glamping. We knew this was the best way of increasing our winter occupancy and appealing to a wider group of people.”

Camping Cabins supplied a 17m2 cabin for Rivendale in April 2014. Constructed from sustainable redwood pine, the cabin has two side room extensions with two sets of bunk beds and a table and seating area. Since then, Rivendale has taken delivery of a 10m2 cabin that is used as a treatment room for the on-site spa and they have placed a further order for a 14m2 Camping Cabin to replace one of their existing canvas yurts.

Greg adds: “The first Camping Cabin was a direct investment for the business. It is achieving around 50 per cent occupancy and with the costs of the fit out we envisage that the cabin will pay back in 16–18 months."

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Parks Find Winning Ways

Posted on May 19, 2015

All the 2015 AA Caravan and Camping Awards winners were recognised for their achievements at the lunch held at the Aztec Hotel in Bristol.

Parks Find Winning Ways

The 2015 season has got off to a flying start for eleven of the UK’s top campsites after they were recognised at the recent AA Caravan and Camping Awards 2015.

Oakdown Touring and Holiday Park in Sidmouth, Devon was named the winner of the AA Campsite of the Year for England and the overall winner for 2015, while Witches Craig Caravan and Camping Park in Stirling and Bron Derw Touring Caravan Park in Conwy were named Campsite of the Year Scotland and Wales respectively.

Alistair Franks of Oakdown Touring and Holiday Park said: “We are all absolutely delighted with our award. We are continually investing in Oakdown to improve our facilities across the board to make our guests as comfortable as possible and we are thrilled that the commitment shown by us and our staff has been recognised by the judges of this prestigious awards scheme.”

The annual AA Caravan and Camping Awards recognise the best of the best when it comes to the nation’s caravan and camping sites. The winners are selected by the AA’s team of expert inspectors who travel the length and breadth of the country to ensure that campers can be confident of high standards wherever they see the AA Pennants at a campsite.

David Hancock, co-ordinator of the AA Caravan and Camping Scheme commented: “Today’s campers expect so much more than previous generations. Just because we’re away from home doesn’t mean we don’t want home comforts like privacy, clean and warm bathrooms and good access to the internet.”

David added: “Customer care is one thing that all our award winners have paid attention to. How well guests are looked after from the moment they arrive can make or break any holiday.

“Location also plays a significant part – the park must be in a place people want to visit and improvements to facilities can also score highly, especially if they have enhanced that all-important customer experience.”

All the 2015 award winners were recognised for their achievements at the lunch held at the Aztec Hotel in Bristol. The awards lunch also marked the official launch of the 47th AA Caravan and Camping Guide, which has details of over 900 fully inspected and independently graded camping parks across the UK.

Urban Cedar Launches First Lodge

Posted on May 19, 2015

The new Urban Cedar home adds a new dimension to Urban
Cedar’s already extensive product range of high quality hot tubs.

Urban Cedar Launches First Lodge

Hot tub specialists Urban Cedar have branched into the holiday lodge market with the launch of their brand new holiday home lodge. The luxury Urban Cedar Home features a contemporary design, cedar galley style kitchen, solid oak flooring and Bosch appliances.

The first lodge is sited at The Retreats, a brand new development of just 25 lodges located at Padstow Holiday Park in Cornwall. The 40 x 12ft lodge is finished with galvanised steel and cedar decking and steel gabions filled with local Cornish stone.

Antony Perry, managing director at Bristol-based Urban Cedar explains: “A key feature we wanted to create within the lodge design was space. When the master bedroom door is open you can see from one end of the lodge to the other.

“We also decided to locate the French doors on the side so to make a clearly defined lounge area.”

The lodge design can be adapted to suit all size requirements and bespoke features can also be added.

Antony adds: “We’re excited to be launching our Urban Cedar Home which will add a new dimension to our already extensive product range of high quality cedar hot tubs. “Looking ahead, we would like to grow this side of the business by buying and redeveloping old caravan sites.”

Urban Cedar
Tel. +44 (0)1934 833 844
www.urbancedarhome.co.uk