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Triton conference special: UK operators set for bumper summer
UK operators are preparing for a bumper summer because the poor exchange rate against the Euro is putting people off travelling to the Continent.
Hoseasons head of sales Zena Calderbank said its upmarket lodges, which can cost up to £2,000 per week for a family, have been selling strongly.
She said the growth was due to the exchange rate, plus people being put off flying because of queues at airports and publicity about lost baggage.
The company turns over £120 million worth of UK holidays each year and Calderbank expects the figure to grow this year.
However, she warned that a repeat of last year’s floods could severely damage bookings.
“Last year, the floods hit and the lates market fell off, so we need to be better prepared and better at telling people where they can stay when it is raining and still have a great holiday.â€
Meanwhile, Superbreak sales director Ian Mounser said the company had 1.25 million customers in the UK and expected bookings to grow by 10 per cent this year.
“Two and three night breaks in London are particularly strong,†he said. “I think the exchange rate and the credit crunch does make a difference at the margins.
“Some people are deferring their decision to go on holiday and then it is easier to choose a UK break at the last minute.â€
by Jeremy Skidmore (www.jeremyskidmore.com)
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