Pontin’s announce that bookings continue to rise!

Pontin’s announced today that festive 2008 bookings are up by 11% on 2007 and that summer bookings for 2009 are up 20%.

Ocean Parcs, the investment Company that acquired Pontin’s in March 2008 for £46million is delighted with the increase in bookings.

Chief Executive, Ian Smith commented: ‘’ 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. 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’’.

Chairman Graham Parr commented: “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.

“I am also delighted to announce the appointments of Ross Faith, Stuart Kay and Clive Dormer. All three of them previously played pivotal roles with Ian in the highly successful team at Matalan during its phenomenal growth period.

“I am also pleased to announce an internal appointment; Daniel Martin has been appointed Marketing Manager effective immediately. Daniel joined the business just 18 months ago as Digital Marketing Manager and over the past 12 months Daniel has made a significant contribution to the online business”.

Ian Smith, Chief Executive continued; “I am delighted to be joined by some of the old team to help achieve our goals.

“Ross has been appointed Finance Director and Company Secretary of Ocean Parcs responsible for all group companies. Stuart has been appointed Head of Compliance and will report to Ross. Clive will report to George Edwards, Operations Director of Pontin’s and will be responsible for our retail operations. In addition, Daniel’s appointment is an excellent achievement in just a short period of time.”

Chairman, Graham Parr further commented: “Given the current economic climate, the increase in bookings is an excellent performance from the team and I would like to thank them all for their efforts.

“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”.