The Farming Express September 2 | Page 9

Timing is Everything!

Peter Rusbridge caught up with Glamping Show supporter, Kate Morel of Quality Unearthed, to talk to her about her take on the UK’s Glamping market.

Kate Morel has keenly followed the Glamping market in the UK and around the world for some years and has been fortunate to work within the industry for the last four. During this time she has noticed some considerable changes that have seen Glamping become the fastest growing holiday sector worldwide, with huge ongoing potential, particularly in the UK.

In 2014, illuminating surveys were carried out by Visit England and Barclays Bank revealing that UK 'staycations' and short breaks are on the increase, with annual expenditure from domestic tourists projected to grow by 25% to over 1.8 billion by 2017.

This is good news for Morel who is passionate about all things Glamping and said:

“Glamping is perfectly poised to fill this growing need in the UK where people are looking for quirky holidays that don’t require them to start and end their holiday at an airport. I say 'need' rather than trend because I don't believe Glamping is a trend; it is a unique experience that reconnects us with the natural environment and each other. It's much needed and it's here to stay!”

Morel went on to say:

“A check of today's internet search analytics showed me that in any one month in the UK there are on average 1 million Glamping related keyword searches. This has been increasing year on year and is still gaining momentum. I am not surprised; more of us are looking for things in life that are authentic and unique. How we spend our precious leisure time is no exception.”

Over the last few years Morel has attended various events, conferences and exhibitions that include Glamping and in the last year the level of enquiries and interest from potential guests as well as land owners considering starting their own glamping sites has been impressive. However, the feedback on the market has been the same; advice about structures, planning, guest expectations and experience is thin on the ground. This is why the Glamping Show, an event totally dedicated to this fledgling industry, is right on cue. It will bring all the right people together in one place with related products, knowledge, expertise and experience just when the market needs it.

There couldn't be a better time to get involved. If you are looking for expert advice on how to get your Glamping business off the ground or you are looking for that perfect UK Glamping holiday then make sure the Glamping Show is in your diary; Thurs 24 to Sat 26 September 2015.

See you there!