profitability

HOLIDAY PARK SECTOR FACE BUDGET CHALLENGES

Posted on February 2, 2026

Properties with a rateable value under £500,000 will benefit from permanently lower business rates.

The UK Autumn Budget 2025 has delivered a mixed picture for the holiday park, caravan park, and hospitality sectors, offering targeted relief for smaller operators but leaving broader structural challenges unresolved.

From April 2026, more than 750,000 retail, leisure, and hospitality properties with a rateable value under £500,000 will benefit from permanently lower business rates multipliers, alongside a £4.3 billion transitional support package. For small holiday parks and caravan sites, this provides welcome certainty and could ease cashflow pressures, particularly for family-run and independent operations.

However, the picture is less rosy for larger operators. Properties with rateable values over £500,000 face a higher multiplier, increasing costs for major holiday parks, hotels, and leisure complexes. Coupled with rising wage pressures—the National Living Wage will rise to £12.71/hour for workers aged 21+ and £10.85/hour for 18–20-year- olds from April 2026—the budget may force larger businesses to make tough operational and investment decisions.

"The Budget offers short-term relief for smaller operators but leaves structural challenges unresolved." - Amanda French, Head of Retail & Leisure at Clarke Willmott LLP

Hospitality alone is expected to face £1.4 billion in additional employment costs next year. Tourist levies, potentially introduced by English mayors, also pose a risk to visitor numbers, with holiday parks and seaside resorts particularly exposed. On a positive note, the budget offers a 40% First Year Allowance for plant and machinery and full expensing for qualifying assets, supporting investment in lodges, leisure facilities, and retail improvements.

Amanda French, Head of Retail & Leisure at Clarke Willmott LLP, said: “The Budget offers short-term relief for smaller operators but leaves structural challenges unresolved. Wage pressures, fiscal drag, and tourist levies risk dampening demand and profitability across all sectors. However, certainty now may help restore consumer confidence and encourage spending over the Christmas period, providing resilience for holiday parks, caravan sites, and hospitality venues alike.”

While smaller parks may breathe a little easier, the Autumn Budget underscores the ongoing need for strategic planning and careful cost management across the wider sector.

FROM RISING COSTS TO HAPPY GUESTS

Posted on November 12, 2025

A Smarter Way to Manage Your Parks Energy...

Holiday parks across the UK are under pressure. Operators are trying to balance rising energy costs, increasing guest expectations, and the sheer complexity of managing utilities across sprawling sites. The problem is all too familiar: one guest runs a heater and an air fryer nonstop, another guest plugs in an electric vehicle, while others barely use a lightbulb and yet everyone is charged the same.

Without accurate visibility, parks either undercharge and lose revenue, or introduce blanket surcharges that frustrate guests. Traditional systems only make things worse. Manual meter readings, paper billing, and reconciliations create an endless admin burden. Bills arrive late and forecasting costs becomes guesswork.

Smart card systems, once seen as the answer, now feel clunky and outdated, with guests expecting the same seamless digital service they get everywhere else in their lives. The result? Operators are left firefighting instead of focusing on delivering great holidays. This is exactly the challenge that Rolec and Metpow are solving.

Rolec has been the UK’s trusted name in outdoor utility hardware for over 35 years, with robust, weather-resistant meter boxes and pedestals used in thousands of parks. By combining this proven hardware with Metpow’s innovative, cloud-based software, operators now have a future-proof solution that makes managing utilities simple, transparent, and profitable.

The system transforms Rolec’s pedestals into intelligent, connected devices. Each pitch is linked to Metpow through secure LoRaWAN gateways, ensuring constant connection across the site. Unlike Wi-Fi and 4G, which struggle with signal dropouts and interference from vehicles, trees, or park infrastructure, LoRaWAN provides reliable, low-power connectivity that is perfectly suited to large outdoor environments.

ROLEC PEDESTALS, POWERED BY METPOW, provide real-time energy monitoring across each pitch, keeping both guests and operators in control.

It means every unit stays connected without operators worrying about dead spots, weak signals, or the cost of maintaining mobile contracts. From the operator’s side, the features are designed to make life easier. Real-time usage insights show exactly what each guest is consuming, while personalised dashboards allow staff to monitor the entire site at a glance.

Interactive site mapping makes even the largest or most complex park simple to oversee, and remote control means supply can be managed instantly, with alerts flagging anything unusual before it becomes a problem. Automated, upfront billing ensures guests know exactly what they are paying, while the self-serve Metpow app allows them to top up, receive low-balance alerts, and view their usage whenever they like.

It’s a system designed for fairness and convenience, both for operators and their guests. As Holly Brown, Commercial Director at Rolec, explains: “The combination of Rolec’s proven hardware with Metpow’s smart software creates a solution that’s not just about technology, it’s about helping operators run more profitable, efficient, and guest-friendly parks. It’s robust, reliable, and ready for the future.”

For operators, the benefits are clear. Sites using Rolec powered by Metpow are recovering their investment in as little as two seasons. By charging fairly and transparently, they stop subsidising high-consumption guests, while still keeping visitors happy with a system that feels modern and easy to use.

Office teams save hours of manual work each week, cutting out meter readings, spreadsheets, and reconciliations. And with accurate data on usage and costs, forecasting and budgeting finally become straightforward. Guests, meanwhile, appreciate the transparency. They pay only for what they use, with no hidden charges or arguments at checkout.

LORAWAN CONNECTIVITY ensures every unit stays reliably online, even across large and complex park sites.

The convenience of app-based payments and instant top-ups makes their stay easier, and parks report improved satisfaction and return visits. Some operators are also highlighting the sustainability features of the platform, including live data on carbon impact and carbon offsetting, which appeal to increasingly eco-conscious holidaymakers.

Ed Jones, CEO of Metpow, sums it up: “Holiday parks are being squeezed from both sides. Rising wholesale energy costs and rising guest expectations. Our mission is to put operators back in control. By pairing Rolec’s industry-leading hardware with Metpow’s software, we’ve created a solution that saves money, reduces admin, and delivers a better guest experience.”

One park manager perhaps put it best: “Before Metpow, we were losing money on electricity and spending hours on admin. Now, everything is transparent. Guests pay fairly, we stay in control, and our team has more time to focus on the guest experience.” With rising energy costs here to stay and guest expectations continuing to climb, this isn’t just about keeping the lights on.

AUTOMATED ALERTS and remote control allow operators to manage energy efficiently and respond to issues before they escalate.

It’s about future-proofing your park. Smart card systems belong to the past. Cloud-based solutions like Rolec powered by Metpow are the future. Bringing operators clarity, efficiency, and profitability, while giving guests the transparency and convenience they expect.

If your park is still wrestling with outdated systems and unpredictable bills, now is the time to make the change. Book a free, no-obligation quote today and discover how Rolec and Metpow can help your park save money, delight guests, and prepare for the future. Learn more about the system and book a demo on our website.

Metpow
01803 220372
www.metpow.com

 

MAKING A SPLASH

Posted on July 31, 2025

Unlocking the potential of swimming pool at your site...

From serene morning swims to chaotic family splash sessions, swimming pools have long been a key draw for holidaymakers across the UK.

Whether it’s the thrill of a flume, the sensory joy of a splashpad, or the luxurious calm of a hot tub, aquatic attractions continue to be a powerful way for holiday parks to boost appeal, increase bookings, and improve guest satisfaction.

But in 2025, swimming pools are not just about water, they’re about experience, safety, accessibility and even profitability.

"Swimming pools are not just about water, they're about experience, safety, accessibility and even profitability."

A POOL IS JUST THE BEGINNING
A well-designed pool area is more than a place to cool off. It’s a hub of activity, a selling point on brochures, and increasingly, a profit centre in its own right. That’s where specialists like Ustigate Waterplay come in.

Their installations go beyond traditional pools to create immersive aquatic play spaces that work for all ages and abilities — even where space or staffing is limited. Ustigate’s innovative splash pads, for instance, are especially well suited for holiday parks. Because they don’t have any standing water, they require no lifeguards, and are therefore low-maintenance, safe, and accessible.

They’re perfect for outdoor play areas and create fantastic visual impact, with over 15 features capable of running from the same water management system as a traditional pool. According to Ustigate, the modern pool experience should not “stand alone.” It should be part of a broader strategy to maximise fun, inclusivity, and efficiency in every square foot.

Their installations often include lazy rivers, interactive water cannons, and customisable water features designed by their long-standing partner, Vortex Aquatic Structures International Inc, who offer a portfolio of over 300 products. We create a space that entertains a multitude of guests simultaneously, whether that’s kids racing through water tunnels, teens battling with spray cannons, or families relaxing under shaded structures by the pool.

FOR LEISURE OPERATORS, water testing isn’t just a routine task, it’s a critical part of keeping guests safe and happy.

TESTING TIMES
However fun or visually impressive your aquatic offering might be, nothing is more important than safety and that starts with the water itself. Enter The Tintometer Ltd, who provide vital equipment for routine and regulated water testing in pools and spas.

Their Lovibond® MD150 photometer is fast becoming a go-to for leisure operators across the UK, especially in parks with multiple facilities or hot tubs in private lodges. The MD150 allows for accurate and efficient testing of chlorine, bromine, pH, calcium hardness, alkalinity and cyanuric acid — all with a user-friendly digital interface.

Crucially, it also helps parks comply with HSG282, the Health and Safety Executive’s guidance for hot tubs and spa pools — which are now widely featured in glamping pods, luxury lodges and cabins. “Accurate, fast testing isn’t just about compliance,” says a spokesperson from The Tintometer Ltd.

“It’s about protecting your guests, your staff, and your reputation. The MD150 gives operators the tools they need to meet the high expectations of health officers, insurers and today’s savvy holidaymakers.” The device’s portability makes it ideal for large sites, and ongoing service and calibration support helps ensure long-term performance and peace of mind.

SPLASH ABOUT provide bespoke retail solutions and branded products, giving your swimming pool facilities the retail wow factor.

TURNING POOLS INTO PROFIT CENTRES
Swimming pools have traditionally been considered a cost centre — expensive to maintain, staff and heat. But what if they could generate income too? That’s the question answered by Splash About, who are helping holiday parks across the UK transform poolside areas into high-performing retail spaces.

Working with over 85% of UK holiday park operators, including household names like Haven and Center Parcs, Splash About brings what they call “retail theatre” to poolside merchandising. Their formula is simple but powerful: great products, clever displays, and a smart stock management system.

From UV-protective wetsuits and swim nappies to toys and goggles, Splash About offers a full range of swim and water play products. These are merchandised on custom-designed, durable displays that thrive in the humid, high-traffic poolside environment. Their unique back-end portal system even automates reordering, keeping shelves looking full without overloading on-site storage.

“This approach works,” says Managing Director Lesley Beach. “Some of our partners have seen poolside retail quadruple, moving pools from cost centres to profit centres.” For holiday parks looking to add a revenue stream without expanding their footprint, this is a proven solution.

THE YORKSHIRE SPA RETREAT were crowned overall Winner of Holiday Park Pool of the Year in the 2023 UK Pool & Spa Awards.

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE
Of course, the holiday park industry is filled with innovation, creativity and quality — all of which are celebrated at the UK Pool & Spa Awards. These prestigious awards recognise excellence in design, management, and customer experience across all sectors of the wet leisure industry.

For holiday park operators, it’s a chance to benchmark standards, discover new suppliers, and even gain a valuable marketing edge by being shortlisted or winning an award.

From eco-conscious filtration systems to high-tech water features and inclusive splash zones, the awards provide a snapshot of the very best in British pool design and operation.

If you’re proud of your pool facilities, whether newly installed or lovingly maintained, the UK Pool & Spa Awards are a brilliant opportunity to showcase your efforts and earn industry recognition.

A USTIGATE SPLASHPAD is great because it offers water play without water depth, making it inclusive, accessible, safe and fun for everyone.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
The way guests use pools is changing. They want more than just a dip, they want experiences, comfort, and personalisation. Meanwhile, operators need to balance this with safety, staffing, sustainability, and space constraints.

Today’s swimming pool offering needs to work hard, not just during peak summer weeks but year-round, come rain or shine. That might mean adding a heated splashpad for shoulder season appeal, investing in automated water testing to free up staff time, or turning your poolside into a miniature high street.

Whatever the size or style of your site, there are now smarter, safer, and more profitable ways to use aquatic facilities to their fullest. Whether you’re running a coastal caravan park, a woodland glamping retreat or a luxury resort, your pool can be a standout feature — one that guests remember, share, and return for. Now might just be the time to dive in!

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Lovibond Water Testing
www.lovibond.com

Splash About
www.splashabout.com

Ustigate Waterplay
www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

UK Pool & Spa Awards
www.ukpoolandspaawards.co.uk

POWERING PARK GROWTH

Posted on July 31, 2025

Park owners stay one step ahead thanks to dedicated supplier network...

Ask any delegate what the biggest takeaway has been from the annual Hoseasons Owners Conference over the last few years and one message is likely to come back loud and clear - invest in hot tubs! What started as a ‘nice to have’ for a few early adopters has become a total game changer for savvy owners looking to attract more guests to their park, command higher rental rates and maximise their returns.

In the first half of this year lodges and holiday homes with hot tubs in the Hoseasons portfolio achieved a 52% higher Average Weekly Rate (AWR) than those without. No wonder then that the brand has seen a 30% increase in the number of units adding hot tubs – an evergreen asset with relatively low CapEx and OpEx requirements, where perceived customer value clearly outweighs actual costs to install and maintain.

Always attractive to a broad demographic, including couples, families and groups of friends, hot tubs are also becoming increasingly popular with guests embracing hot and cold water contrast therapy as part of the ever-growing trend for wellness tourism - especially when paired with ice baths, saunas and covered pergolas to extend year-round appeal.

So… investing in hot tubs is a ‘no brainer’, but while knowing ‘what’ to do to capitalise on a market trend is one thing, knowing ‘how’ to do it is another matter. That’s why Hoseasons offers Hoseasons Connect – a strategic partner network of trusted suppliers offering nearly everything a new or existing holiday or lodge park might need to start from scratch, innovate or future-proof their location.

LAUNCHED IN 2022, THE HOSEASONS Connect network currently offers one-stop-shop access to more than 20 reputable suppliers. Picture courtesy of the Yorkshire Spa Retreat.

Launched in 2022, the network currently offers one-stop-shop access to more than 20 reputable suppliers including providers of accommodation, hot tubs, outdoor living equipment, park management software, housekeeping services, access controls, interior furnishings, architecture and design, insurance, print and signage, capital allowances and training services (including hot tub maintenance!).

More than 100 leads have been generated for network members in the last two-and-a-half years, with accommodation owners seeing a wide range of benefits from dealing with experts in their field, including Jacuzzi and Pinelog.

Miles Dewhurst, CEO at Yorkshire Spa Retreat – part of Hoseasons’ Magnificent Collection, works with Hoseasons Connect partners 1 Stop Spas and Leisure and Rix Leisure (Victory Leisure Homes and Prestige Lodges).

He says: “The real added value you get from being able to access the Hoseasons Connect community is not just the products and services themselves, it’s also the insights and innovations these trusted suppliers bring to the table that mean you’re always aware of what’s driving the market, and what might be the next big thing before investing in growth.”

HOSEASONS CONNECT gives owners access to expert suppliers like 1 Stop Spas, Omar Lodges, and HLF Group.

Phil Mackay, Director of Hire Fleet at Raywell Hall Country Lodges – Hoseasons’ current Best in Britain for lodges and parks - is also a big advocate of Hoseasons Connect and has a longstanding relationship with accommodation supplier Omar Lodges. He says: “We realised a long time ago that competitive advantage comes from constantly innovating to stay one step ahead of the rest, and that means working with the best partners along the way.

The fact Hoseasons has brought all these suppliers together in one network is not only incredibly helpful for parks like us, it also very clearly demonstrates their commitment to helping us grow both our income and profitability.” David Hall, Head of Commercial Strategy and Transformation at Northumbrian Water – the parent company of Kielder Waterside – is also a fan of the network.

Working closely with accommodation suppliers Oakgrove Lodges and furniture suppliers HLF Group, he says: “The most important thing about any supplier is that they understand your business. Both Oakgrove and HLF deliver exceptional quality and service and come with a reassuring Hoseasons seal of approval.”

All new owners joining the Hoseasons portfolio are invited to access the Hoseasons Connect community and take advantage of a range of key business contacts, promotional material, discounted rates and other benefits.

WELLNESS-FOCUSED stays are on the rise – hot tubs, saunas and outdoor living drive year-round picture courtesy of Raywell Hall Country Lodges.

Paul Shoebridge, Business Development Director at Awaze – the parent company of Hoseasons – says: “We want to do everything we can to give our owners the best chance of maximising their ROI. Hoseasons Connect brings together the best suppliers in the business so that small family-run operations to large corporate parks can make informed choices about the best way to future proof their customer offer.” For more information about Hoseasons Connect, or to request a digital prospectus please get in touch.

Hoseasons
0345 268 1500
supplypartnerships@hoseasons.co.uk

Raywell Hall Country Lodges
01482 300801
www.raywellhall.co.uk

Yorkshire Spa Retreat
01439 413102
www.yorkshire-spa-retreat.co.uk

RAYWELL HALL’S AWARD-WINNING team with Gemma Brown from Hoseasons (centre), celebrating success at the Owners’ Conference.

LODGES AND HOLIDAY HOMES with hot tubs in the Hoseasons portfolio achieved a 52% higher Average Weekly Rate (AWR) than those without, picture courtesy of Raywell Hall Country Lodges.

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.