Pontin’s in value focus as bookings rise
The new management team behind Pontin’s has seen bookings for next summer rise by a claimed 20%.
The rise comes on the back of an 11% increase year on year for the festive period, according to Ocean Parcs, the investment company that acquired Pontin’s in March for £46 million.
Chief executive Ian Smith said: “The new management team is targeting growth through maximising the untapped potential within the business.
“Our strategy is to ensure we deliver outstanding value for money and this has clearly contributed to the increase in bookings.
“I am also pleased to report that the increase has come from both repeat customers and new customers alike.â€
He added: “2009 will be a challenging year for everyone, not least the leisure industry but with our new pricing strategy and product line up we are confident when we say ‘if you can find a better value British family holiday elsewhere……………then take it’.’’
Pontin’s runs seven seaside sites – five self-catering at Hemsby, Norfolk (capacity 2,500); Brean Sands, Somerset (capacity 2,700); Camber Sands, Sussex (capacity 3,200); Prestatyn Sands, North Wales (capacity 3,500); Southport, Ainsdale Beach (capacity 3,000); and two half board at Blackpool (capacity 2,200) and Pakefield, Suffolk (capacity 1,400).
Chairman Graham Parr said: “Our strategy for this business is proving to be exactly on track.
“We have focused our efforts and strengths on the Pontin’s core business and the results speak for themselves.
“This coupled with more and more people relying on the traditional British holiday to give them the affordability to enjoy themselves in these difficult times.
“Our thinking is clear over the coming 12 months which will see us continue to drive the business further as there is I believe substantial opportunities available within the core Pontin’s business that are yet to be unleashed.â€
Parr added: “Clearly no one is unaffected by market conditions and, as one of the UK’s leading holiday companies, we want to ensure we provide outstanding value for money for our guests. That is why we are focused on delivering excellent second to none value UK holiday breaks at a price that suits all pockets.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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