What’s the outlook for the leisure and hospitality sector in 2026?
The leisure and hospitality sector is extremely dynamic, with businesses heavily affected by uncontrollable external factors such as government policies and consumer trends. In 2025, we saw employers’ National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum Wage (NMW) rise, placing increasing financial pressures on businesses. The sector has also been adapting to the boom in technology and AI, which consumers are increasingly expecting to use to enhance their customer experience – and this is only the beginning of this trend. So, now we’re in 2026, what opportunities and challenges can we expect to see? And how can leisure and hospitality businesses prepare for these? Roads over runways According to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, road trips are leading future travel plans for Brits, with 61% planning to drive to their destination of choice in the next 12 months. This is largely driven by the cost-saving appeal, but many also value the spontaneity, being able to pack more items and the convenience of having their own car. This suggests that many people will be opting to holiday in the UK in 2026, rather than travelling abroad, which presents a great opportunity for leisure and hospitality businesses across the country. But where there are opportunities, there are also challenges, and businesses will need to be ready for increased demand. Making sure you have the resources to deliver your services during busy periods is vital, whether that’s by hiring more team members or increasing stock reserves. If you haven’t already, look at your budgets and forecasts for 2026 to make sure you have the reserves to invest in the resources you’ll need to keep up with this expected increase in demand. And don’t forget – competing businesses will also be taking advantage of this UK road trip trend, so put yourself ahead of the competition by diversifying your services and offering attractive incentives to customers. Whether it’s expanding your menu to offer regional dishes and drinks, or offering discounted rates for returning customers, having a strategy in place to draw customers in is key. The rise of technology We will undoubtedly see more technology woven into the leisure and hospitality sector in 2026, including the use of AI. An increasing number of travellers are already using generative AI for planning and booking their trips, and major leisure and tourism brands like Expedia and Booking.com are integrating tools like ChatGPT – so it’s never been easier for a robot to plan your holiday for you. In addition to this, the likes of online booking systems, digital check-in systems and apps that personalise guest experiences will only become more sophisticated in 2026, so leisure and hospitality businesses need to be on top of the latest tech to remain profitable. But the rise of technology and AI doesn’t come without its complications and challenges. It has been behind a growing number of travel scams in recent times, so businesses need to ensure these tools are being used securely and that cybersecurity is a priority. Some of the best ways to protect yourself are: set yourself a cybersecurity budget and invest in coverage that includes support for breach recovery; use multi-factor authentication wherever possible; update your software regularly; and train your team to spot scams. The more you can do to safeguard your business, the better. Changing fiscal policies The 2025 Autumn Budget saw the Chancellor announce a number of changes that will directly affect the leisure and hospitality sector this year. One of the more positive outcomes is the reform to business rates, which are set to fall for smaller, customer-facing businesses from April. A new banded multiplier system will replace the current approach, meaning that leisure and hospitality businesses with physical premises open to the public are likely to see some relief. But whilst businesses may be making cost savings when it comes to business rates, these newfound reserves are likely to be quickly spent elsewhere as a result of other Budget announcements. For example, the NMW and National Living Wage (NLW) will both be increasing in April, putting additional pressure on leisure and hospitality businesses – especially those that employ young people. Those that sell alcohol and milk-based drinks are also set to be hit by increased alcohol duty and sugar tax. Alcohol duty rates will increase to 3.66% in line with inflation, while sugar tax is being extended to milk-based drinks, including pre-packaged coffees and milkshakes. Businesses affected by this will need to consider how they fund this increased tax bill – either taking the hit themselves or passing the burden onto customers by increasing the cost of these items. With so many variables to consider for the year ahead, it’s never been more important for leisure and hospitality businesses to review their finances and ensure they’re well equipped for the year ahead. Duncan & Toplis provides accounting and business services specifically designed to support businesses in this sector, including budgeting, forecasting, payroll and tax planning. To find out more, visit www.duncantoplis.co.uk.
Caledonia Play: Scotland’s Timber Play Specialists
For more than 25 years, Caledonia Play has been designing and manufacturing high- quality wooden play equipment from its base in Kinross-shire. We are Scotland’s only independent timber play manufacturer, and the company is known for its craftsmanship, sustainability and innovative approach to outdoor play. Working across public parks, schools and privately owned destinations, Caledonia Play creates durable, imaginative environments where children can play, explore and grow. All products comply fully with British and European Safety Standards. Personal Service, Tailored Solutions Every project begins with listening and understanding the needs of each client. Caledonia Play works closely with all their customers to deliver bespoke play solutions that suit each site’s needs, budget and timescale. From consultation and design through to manufacture and installation, clients benefit from a professional, personal service and reliable delivery without compromise on quality. Timber Expertise and Sustainable Sourcing At the heart of Caledonia Play’s philosophy is an in-depth knowledge of timber. Our Managing Director – Jamie Bruce Jones – has a background in the timber industry. The Jones family business stretches back to 1838 when Mr James Jones started trading in timber and allied products. Jamie has applied his knowledge of timber to creating beautiful products for the outdoor play industry that are made to last. Jamie carefully selects slow grown, sustainably sourced wood which is pressure- treated and wax-impregnated for added durability. This dense, hard-wearing timber provides the strength, resilience, and longevity needed for outdoor play structures, while maintaining the natural beauty and tactile appeal of wood. By combining sustainability with engineering expertise, Caledonia Play creates play equipment that outperforms comparable products in both strength and resilience. This ensures the play equipment can withstand the UK’s varied climate while continuing to look and perform at its best for decades. “100% of our play structures are made from slow-grown timber, the bedrock of long-lasting playgrounds with low maintenance.” Showcasing the Double Tower Unit The Double Tower is a versatile play structure designed for children aged 5 to 14, ideal for all outdoor spaces. It features two 1.24 × 1.24 m square towers with a 1.5 m platform height, connected by a net rope bridge and complemented by a scramble net, climbing rock wall, solid steps with handrails, stainless steel slide, and a roof on one of the towers. A barrel tunnel sits under the rope bridge, adding extra fun and exploration. Constructed from robust treated timbers with stainless steel fixings and hot-dipped galvanised feet to protect against ground moisture, the Double Tower combines durability, safety, and imaginative play. Designing Play for Everyone Inclusive design is central to Caledonia Play’s ethos. The company creates welcoming play spaces for children of all ages and abilities, with options including wheelchair- accessible trampolines, swings and roundabouts. Each playground is designed as an experience – supporting physical development, creativity and social interaction in a safe, natural setting. “We design play spaces that welcome everyone and spark imagination.” Integrated In-House Production Caledonia Play’s fully in-house model sets it apart. Designers, engineers and installation teams work closely together, ensuring consistent quality, efficient project management and flexibility to meet client needs. This hands-on approach guarantees high standards from concept to completion. The Benefits of Natural Outdoor Play By championing natural materials and thoughtful design, Caledonia Play creates playgrounds that support physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection. Children are encouraged to climb, balance, explore and imagine in environments that are stimulating, inclusive and built to last. “Our mission is to build safe, sustainable, hardwearing, and low-maintenance play spaces that can be enjoyed by generations.” Contact Caledonia Play Caledonia Play LtdOld Mill, South Street, Milnathort, Kinross, KY13 9XB Tel: 01577 840570Email: sales@caledoniaplay.comWeb: www.caledoniaplay.com
Two top wins for Meadow Bay Villages at British Travel Awards 2025
Staff and the management team of the Meadow Bay Villages park group are celebrating after the company landed two top accolades at British Travel Awards 2025. Meadow Bay Villages was named as overall winner in the categories of Best Small Company for UK Family Holidays, and the Best Small Company for UK Short Breaks. Judges announced the result at BTA’s prestigious awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, attended by senior tourism and travel industry figures from across the country. Based on nominations by almost half a million individuals, the BTA accolades are recognised as the most influential consumer-voted awards in the UK travel industry. The group’s chief executive Geoffrey Smith said everyone was “absolutely delighted” at the achievement, not least because the group has been operating for just 18 months. “To be recognised so early in our journey is incredible and reflects the commitment of our amazing team to providing outstanding holiday experiences. “We couldn’t be prouder to see their passion acknowledged in this way,” said Mr Smith. The four-strong group includes Billing Aquadrome in Northamptonshire which provides a relaxing countryside retreat in a tranquil lakeside setting. In the past 18 months, Meadow Bay Villages has invested £17 million in the park’s regeneration, providing a host of first-class leisure facilities for guests and holiday home owners. Also benefitting from the group’s substantial investment policies is Hayling Island holiday park in Hampshire where a range of new accommodation is on offer for all holiday budgets. It includes luxury platinum-grade holiday caravans with private hot tubs and new dog-friendly gold standard holiday caravans. Meadow Bay Villages also operates Golden Leas Holiday Park and Hollybush Farm Holiday Park, both located on the Isle of Sheppey. There is more information about the group and its parks, which are members of the Holiday and Residential Parks Association (HARPA), at www.meadowbay.com
Teddy Mountain: Leading the future of Make-A-Bear plush and activity experiences
For over 15 years, Teddy Mountain has proudly led the make-a-bear industry, championing quality, innovation, and exceptional customer support from our home in Paignton, Devon. Today, we stand as the world’s largest supplier of make-a-bear plush, trusted by holiday parks, leisure venues, visitor attractions, retail stores, event organisers, and educational groups around the world. Our focus has always been clear: create unforgettable experiences for guests while helping businesses increase engagement, satisfaction, and revenue. Our growth is the result of one thing – expertise. We know this industry inside out. We understand what captivates children, what families want, and what our customers need from a trusted supplier. When businesses work with Teddy Mountain, they’re choosing more than products; they’re choosing an experienced partner dedicated to supporting their success. Setting the standard with our plush range At the core of Teddy Mountain is our extensive plush range, which continues to set the industry benchmark. Each character is thoughtfully designed, beautifully made, and crafted to deliver the soft, huggable quality customers expect from a premium make-a- bear experience. Our catalogue features many distinctive characters, an ever-growing seasonal & licensed selection, and consistently reliable stock levels that ensure businesses can operate smoothly throughout the year. But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to innovation, and this is where we’ve made significant strides. As the world’s largest supplier, we are also proud to be the first to introduce a fully eco- friendly make-a-bear line: Eco Origins. This groundbreaking range features plush designs made from 100% recycled materials, making it the perfect choice for sustainability-focused businesses, environmentally conscious venues, and organisations looking to offer greener activity options. Eco Origins is soft, durable, beautifully designed, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to shaping a more sustainable future for the industry. It’s an important step not just for us, but for every business that shares our belief in responsible production. The world’s first Stuffa Squishie line Innovation is woven into our DNA, and one of our most exciting breakthroughs has been the introduction of the world’s first Stuffa Squishie range. Stuffa Squishies are ultra- soft, pillow-style plush that offer a completely new tactile experience. Their lightweight, squeezable feel makes them irresistible to children and teens, and they’ve become a fast favourite among venues looking to diversify their product offering. Designed in many adorable themes and shapes, Stuffa Squishies deliver both novelty and strong commercial value, helping businesses expand beyond traditional plush while staying firmly within the world of fun, creative retail. Expanding Into new creative activities As our customers grew their offerings, one thing became clear: they wanted more interactive, craft-based experiences that could be easily integrated into their activity lineups. We listened, and today Teddy Mountain offers a dynamic, exciting range of hands-on activities that perfectly complement make-a-bear. Each activity has been developed to be simple to deliver, engaging for children, and profitable for venues. Here are some of the standout products in our expanding activity portfolio: • Sand Artz – A long-time favourite, our Sand Art range features beautifully illustrated card designs that children bring to life with vibrant coloured sands. It’s creative, calming, and highly popular across holiday parks, family attractions, and craft-based venues. With a wide selection of themes, Sand Art appeals to all ages and seasons.• Foil Artz – Using the same card formats as Sand Art, Foil Artz replaces sand with colourful foils to create shimmering, mess-free designs. It offers businesses a cleaner, modern twist on a timeless activity, without doubling their card stock. • Snow Clayz – A truly unique addition, Snow Clayz uses a fluffy, snow-like foam material that children mould into colourful, imaginative creations. This sensory-rich activity is perfect for children who enjoy tactile, hands-on play.• Fluid Bearz – One of our most eye-catching products, Fluid Bearz invites children to pour bright, flowing paints onto bear figures to create completely one-of-a-kind designs. Every bear becomes a personal masterpiece, making this a standout activity for venues looking to offer something visually exciting, memorable, and highly shareable. • Art Lampz – Art Lampz allow children to design their very own lamp, which is then illuminated to create a glowing piece of personalised décor. It’s a unique keepsake that blends creativity with practicality.• Mini Masterz – With multiple designs available, Mini Masterz allows children to produce little works of art to proudly display. It’s simple, engaging, and ideal for high- traffic venues. • Tilez – This gives children the chance to create decorative pieces they can take home and display. Tilez are perfect for children who love crafting something lasting.• Grass Headz – One of our most charming activity options, Grass Headz let children create their own character, then watch its “hair” grow over time. It’s fun, silly, and encourages kids to nurture their creation long after the day’s activity. These activities, along with many more exciting additions, give venues everything they need to enhance their guest experience, extend dwell time, and encourage repeat visitation. Whether you’re updating your activity programme or creating a brand-new lineup, we provide the tools, products, and guidance to make it seamless. Partnering for success This offers just a glimpse of what Teddy Mountain has to offer. Our full range is far more extensive, and every product is designed with quality, creativity, and commercial value at its heart. From market-leading plush to innovative eco-conscious ranges and hands- on activities, Teddy Mountain continues to evolve the industry while staying true to what we do best: helping businesses create magical, memorable moments for their guests. If you’re looking to expand your offering, refresh your product selection, or work with a supplier that genuinely understands your needs, Teddy Mountain is ready to support you. To access our full catalogue, prices, and register as a trade customer, visit: www.teddymountain.co.uk Registration is free, quick, and gives you access to our complete range. For businesses who value quality, innovation, sustainability, and a supplier who understands what works, Teddy Mountain remains the trusted leader of the make-a- bear and creative activity industry.
Insurance specialists Caravan Guard donate cash to people in crisis
Campervan, motorhome and caravan insurance specialists Caravan Guard and Leisuredays have continued their tradition of giving back by donating £1,650 to Happy Days as part of its Birthday Giving Initiative.Over the last nine months, every Caravan Guard and Leisuredays team member has received a small birthday hamper – and for each one, the company has donated the equivalent value to Happy Days to fund toiletries for people experiencing homelessness, living in the Winter Shelter, in emergency accommodation, or accessing food parcels.The initiative began with a simple idea: to spread a little joy. Each donated amount has helped fill the charity’s “birthday pot”, enabling Happy Days to gift their service users with essential toiletries and pamper items to help them feel valued on their own birthdays. Caravan Guard presented Happy Days with a cheque for £1,650 – representing the full value donated through the fundraising initiative. The company also created a sample toiletries hamper for the charity to share with its service users.And better still, the full £1,650 was doubled through the Big Give campaign, meaning even more support for those who need it most. Caravan Guard’s Associate Director, Laura Wilby, said their giving back initiative was a meaningful way to extend their staff birthday celebrations beyond the business.“Care completely is one of our core values, and this allows us to put that into practice all year round,” said Laura. “Knowing that each staff birthday is helping someone in crisis feel supported and celebrated is incredibly special. We’re delighted our donation will be doubled through the Big Give and hope it brings comfort to many people who rely on Happy Days’ fantastic services.” Sharon Robins, Corporate Relationship Manager at Happy Days UK, said the partnership has had a huge impact.“We’re so grateful to Caravan Guard for their creativity, kindness and commitment,” she commented.“These toiletries aren’t just practical items – they help people feel valued, especially those living in our Winter Shelter or facing real hardship. “The birthday hampers will bring so much joy, and this donation being doubled will make an even bigger difference to the people we support.” Caravan Guard continues to champion local charities through donations, fundraising and community initiatives, with tens of thousands of pounds given each year.
Park Holidays UK sweeps the board at British Travel Awards
A golden night for Park Holidays UK at December’s British Travel Awards saw the group take first place in all four domestic holiday categories of the competition. It was voted Best Company for UK Family Holidays, Best Company for UK Parks & Lodges Holidays, Best Company for UK Short Breaks, and Best Company for UK Holiday Home Rentals. Judges announced the result at BTA’s prestigious awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, attended by senior tourism and travel industry figures from across the country. Based on nominations by almost half a million individuals, the BTA accolades are recognised as the most influential consumer-voted awards in the UK travel industry. Park Holidays UK said it was “thrilled and delighted” to be named as the overall winner in all classes of the awards open to UK holiday providers. This is the second year in succession that the group has received honours in the BTA Awards which, it says, underline the ever-evolving high quality standards to which the company is committed. Brad May, Chief Marketing Officer of Park Holidays UK, also paid tribute to the parks’ staff teams whose dedication to customer care had helped clinch the four Golds. The awards followed an announcement earlier in December by Park Holidays UK that it is to make a multi-million pound investment across its portfolio of more than 50 parks in 2026. New swimming pools, leisure centres, spas, entertainment venues and restaurants, said Brad, will help improve even further the experience of guests and holiday home owners. The BTA awards, he added, were a vote of confidence by the public that the group was consolidating its position as Britain’s leading provider of high quality park stays. “What makes these awards so important is that the winners were chosen by families and couples based on their own holiday experiences,” said Brad. “Customers are clearly enjoying the high standards that we strive to provide, and also the friendliness and hospitality they encounter at our parks. “Delivering this aspect of our holidays is very much the role of our park teams, and so we give them a big thank-you for creating our uniquely welcoming atmosphere,” said Brad. Park Holidays UK was founded just over 30 years ago, and now operates parks in many popular coastal and countryside locations across the UK. Staying options include holiday caravans and luxury lodges to rent and to own, plus glamping accommodation. Many parks also provide pitches for motorhomes, touring caravans and tents. “We offer our sincere gratitude to the many people who voted for us in these awards, and we’re looking forward to creating many more happy memories in 2026” added Brad. Details members of the Park Holidays UK family can be found on the group’s website at parkholidays.com
SPATEX 2026: The show everyone is talking about
Thinking BIG starts at SPATEX 2026 This special 30th anniversary SPATEX isn’t just the UK’s BIGGEST water leisure showcase, in continuing its quest to offer the UK’s most up-to-the-minute and authoritative guidance in the management of water leisure facilities, the 2026 event has its best double seminar programme to date. Just released, the comprehensive programme features 42 talks by leading industry experts, many of them new to SPATEX, and it’s all FREE! Arena 1 Over the course of the show’s three days, 21 CPD-accredited ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers) Technical Workshops will be delivered. This year sees an even greater variety of topics with something for everyone, from architects, pool builders and retailers to leisure centre managers and holiday park owners. On average, over 300 CPD certificates are handed out each year. Here’s a taste: • Tuesday 13.45 Practical AI For The Pool Industry • Tuesday 14.20 – Essential for all water leisure retailers – latest Home Office Guidance On ThePoisons Act, highlighting your legal obligations and resources available. • Wednesday 10.50 – An Introduction to Designing Swimming Pool Ventilation Systems. • Wednesday 15.00 – Modern Pool & Backyard lighting – efficiency, control and design. • Thursday 10.50 – Swimming Pool Trends in 2026 Two research projects, funded by the SPATEX Foundation, report on the headline findings that have relevance for all the industry: • Thursday 12.20 – Portsmouth University – study into use of hot tub tubs to improve older adult health • Thursday 13.00 – Coventry University – study into the health benefits of ice baths and cold plunge pools. Arena 2 Twenty-one talks in total – as diverse as they are knowledgeable. Here’s a sample: • Tuesday 10.15 and 10.50 – The STA (Swimming Teachers Association), will be giving keynote talks on Legionella and Hidden Risks in Pools, Spas and Water Features. • Tuesday 13.30 – 15.30 Pool Plant Theatre – a collaboration calling on the specialist knowledge of STA, ISPE, RLSS UK (Royal Life Saving Society UK), IoS (Institute of Swimming), and CBA (Chemical Business Association). Designed for leisure centre managers, it covers topics such as the latest thinking on Cryptosporidium prevention; saving energy and water with the pool water recovery system; designing small swim school pools, plus much more. • Wednesday 10.00 – 14.00 five Pool Plant Theatre talks • Wednesday 15.00 – Digital Logging Insights: Analysing Trends in Pool Tests & Checks • Thursday 10.15 – 12.40 – PWTAG Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group will be giving a series of talks including Temporary Pools – What You Need to Know • Thursday 13.00 – BSPF – How Working with Colleagues Around the World Helps Companies in the UK Visit www.spatex.co.uk for details of the full programme. Bring your questions, plans and ideas! SPATEX enjoys the support of numerous industry organisations and in 2026 this goes one step further with the launch of a new initiative called the Industry Hub. This sees PWTAG (Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group), STA, RLSS UK, IoS, and the BSPF’s (British Swimming Pool Federation) SPATA (Swimming Pool & Allied Trade Association) and BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association) allgrouped on one stand (adjacent to seminar Arena 2). Plus, the LCA (Legionella Control Association) and WMSoc (Water Management Society) will also be out in force, with speakers from LCA giving keynote talks in Arena 1. SPATEX provides 2,000 free car parking spaces for its visitors at Coventry Building Society Arena – centrally located, it is within two-hour drive time of 75 per cent of the population. Register for free here: www.spatex.co.uk
Park Holidays UK to roll out major 2026 investment programme
Park Holidays UK has said it will invest millions in hospitality and entertainment at its parks next year. The East Sussex based firm – which is owned by Sun Communities, America’s largest operator of park homes – has unveiled plans for a major investment across its parks in 2026, raising the quality bar to “its highest level yet” according to a group spokesperson. The company, which has a portfolio of more than 50 parks, says the multi-million pound splash will see new or updated swimming pools, leisure centres, spas, entertainment venues, bars, restaurants and children’s activities at a host of its parks. The announcement comes after a year of booming customer demand and holiday home buyers. Park Holidays UK says it is predicting the rise in demand will continue in 2026, with the investment helping to further boost the contribution of its parks to regional economies, creating new job opportunities in the process. Brad May, Chief Marketing Officer at Park Holidays UK, said that the vast majority of guests last year were repeat visitors or coming as a result of a personal recommendation. He said: “Our aim is to deliver unique and exciting holiday experiences, and one way to achieve this is to continually broaden the range of attractions and facilities on offer at our parks. “We are also conscious that families associate us with affordable and fun-packed stays, so our traditional great value pricing policy will remain firmly in place,” said Brad. Among the projects on the drawing board for 2026 is a new indoor pool and leisure complex with a bar, restaurant and children’s playground at Pakefield Holiday Park in the Norfolk Broads. There’s also a new swimming pool coming at Malvern View Holiday Park in Herefordshire, along with a new gymnasium featuring state-of-the-art exercise equipment. Meanwhile, visitors to Bowland Fell Holiday Park near Skipton will also benefit from a new swimming pool at the 130-acre site on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. These and other parks in the group will additionally have new children’s activities introduced, plus new and upgraded facilities for the staging of professional family-friendly entertainment. Parks will also see new restaurants and bars taking shape, many with the spotlight on al-fresco dining and drinking where guests can enjoy all-day outside drinks and food service. Substantial investments last year in in its parks helped win Park Holidays UK Gold accolades in the 2025 British Travel Awards, and a Gold Trusted Service Award from leading review platform Feefo. Investors in People also awarded the company its prestigious Gold accreditation for workplace standards in 2025, highlighting the group’s commitment to developing a culture of customer care. Park Holidays UK currently employs around 2,900 people during the peak season, largely in rural and coastal areas, and provides training for those seeking a career in hospitality. “We are already receiving many advance holiday bookings for 2026 throughout the group, and are looking forward to celebrating our new developments with guests,” said Brad May. There is more information about parks in membership of Park Holidays UK and the group’s planned investments at www.ParkHolidays.com
Trade association boss hits out at tourism levies plan
The British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BH&HPA) has issued a stark warning following the Budget. It has accused the Government of failing to support a sector that underpins regional economies and delivers thousands of jobs across the country. Holiday parks say yesterday’s announcement to allow tourism levies in England is a serious misstep. BH&HPA warns that a new tax on visitors will push up the cost of domestic holidays, deter families already under financial pressure and hit coastal and rural communities that depend heavily on tourism spending. The trade association, representing a sector that generates £12.2 billion in visitor spending, is also dismayed that Ministers have only made minor amends to the proposed changes to Inheritance Tax rules by allowing spousal sharing. BH&HPA – which is set to relaunch as HARPA in January – has cautioned that these proposals place long-standing family-owned parks at real risk, threatening business continuity and the livelihoods they support. Rising employment costs across the industry continue to squeeze operators’ ability to recruit, retain staff and invest in the future. Fully funding the training schemes for young apprentices hired by small and medium enterprises is one small step towards supporting parks operators. Debbie Walker, Director General of BH&HPA, said: “Today’s Budget offers little reassurance for holiday and residential parks businesses that are vital to regional economies. “Yesterday’s decision to allow tourism levies in England is deeply disappointing and risks making domestic holidays less affordable for families at a time when our coastal and rural communities need greater support. “We are equally concerned by the lack of any serious changes on Inheritance Tax proposals, which continue to place family-run parks and the jobs they sustain under real threat. “Rising employment costs are adding further pressure across the industry, constraining parks’ ability to recruit and invest. “We want to work constructively with Government to find solutions that secure growth, protect jobs and ensure the long-term future of this vital industry. Regrettably, the measures announced today fall far short of what is needed.” The BH&HPA is urging the Treasury to begin immediate dialogue with the sector to prevent long-term damage to one of the UK’s most important rural and coastal industries.
