31 July 2008

Butlins booms as the credit crunch takes effect

Butlins has emerged as one of the main beneficiaries of the credit crunch with an increase in bookings at its three resorts of 15 per cent compared with the same period last year.

The operator said it expected 150,000 people to go through its doors at Skegness, Bognor Regis and Minehead over the past six weeks and puts the success down to people demanding more value-for-money during the difficult economic period.

Butlins managing director Richard Bates said people were also tired of delays and queues at airports, and the companyÃ¢â¬â¢s policy of offering over 50 activities included in the overall price had attracted holidaymakers.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœWe are experiencing an increase in bookings as people are choosing to boycott the continent for many reasons, such as the strong Euro and the fuel surcharges that are significantly affecting air and sea travel," said Bates.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœWhy would a family subject themselves to what is typically an awful experience at our airports with long queues, delays and excess luggage charges, when they can simply fill up the car with everything they need for a family break and arrive feeling relaxed and ready for a fun holiday.

Ã¢â¬ÅâœHolidaying in the UK can offer an irresistible combination of convenience, value for money and flexibility.Ã¢â¬~

A peak season week at Butlins for a family of four costs from around Ã&#pound;600, but off-peak three night breaks are available from Ã&#pound;94 for a family of four.

Last week, Pontins said its bookings were up 10 per cent and earlier this year, the Camping and Caravanning Club said it had enjoyed a similar increase in sales.