Category Archives: Tourism

Business, Business News, Tourism, Wales News

Zip World Boost Welsh Economy By £941 Million

An independent report from North Wales Tourism has revealed a figure of £941 million as Zip World’s 10-year contribution to the Welsh economy.

This milestone, following its latest Economic Impact Assessment, highlights a remarkable surge compared to the previous figure of £251 million reported in 2018, with over £690 million added in the last five years.

By analysing commercial data, survey insights, and research findings, the assessment explores Zip World’s visitor influences, staffing levels and economic contribution to its local communities.

Andrew Hudson, Chief Executive Officer at Zip World, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our contribution to economic regeneration in Wales, and this report underscores the impact we’ve had and will continue to have. Our ambition has always been to create long-term jobs and to support the wider economy of our local communities.

“Since launching in 2013, Zip World has opened seven sites – including our newest location in Conwy – and North Wales Tourism’s analysis will provide invaluable insight to guide our future endeavours in driving more growth and prosperity.

“There are also ongoing initiatives to expand our UK presence further including in the Lakes and proposals in the South East of England. Investment is key for us, not only in our new sites but by adding value to our existing locations.”

Zip World’s expansion plans and enhanced management of existing attractions are supported by both the Welsh and UK Governments, securing £6.2 million worth of matched funding as part of the North Wales Growth Deal.

This funding aims to further enable Zip World’s vision as a leading responsible tourism destination, facilitating sustainable transport links and year-round employment opportunities.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles, said: “The Economic Impact Assessment from North Wales Tourism shows the benefits of world-class tourist attractions. Zip World’s growth, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic, has been instrumental in championing tourism in rural Welsh communities and generating more year-round job opportunities.

“Zip World is a North Wales home-grown company who have gone from strength to strength, and it’s great to see the impact they are having.”

Jim Jones, CEO of North Wales Tourism, said: “As Zip World continues to enthuse adventure seekers from near and far to Wales, the positive economic ripple effect of this leading tourist operator has been felt across our communities.

“Every pound visitors spend in North Wales circulates within the local economy, meaning the impact is even higher among other local businesses. By attracting tourists to the region, Zip World has injected over £414 million in local reinvestment across the last five years alone.

“Zip World has been the catalyst to the branding of North Wales as the Adventure Capital of Europe, and the company remains steadfast in its mission to not only thrill visitors but also to enrich and empower our Welsh communities.”

Operating 33 different adventures at seven locations across Wales and England, the company offers a range of experiences within the active leisure sector, including its latest locations, the indoor Zip World Conwy and its Zip World Windermere and Manchester sites.

In addition to its adventures, Zip World has recently launched its brand-new luxury Forest Lodges and Camping Pods as well as renovated its Tyn-y-Coed Hotel, further expanding its accommodation offerings in the region.

For more information about Zip World’s sites and adventures, visit www.zipworld.com

Tourism

Tourism boost as Welshpool hosts start of 2024 Tour of Britain Women

Tourism in Mid Wales will receive a big boost when Welshpool hosts the start of the 2024 Tour of Britain Women stages on Thursday, June 6.

Taking place from June 6-9, the event will feature four tough stages of racing in what will be the first major international stage race delivered by British Cycling Events.

Hundreds of thousands of fans are expected to line the streets for what is the nation’s biggest free-to-attend sporting event, as the country gears up for another thrilling summer of cycling.

Llandudno will host the stage finish on day one before Wrexham welcomes the world’s top female riders and teams for both the start and finish of stage two.

This year’s race will feature a number of familiar start and finish locations which have successfully hosted major international events in recent years.

The race will begin in Welshpool, which hosted the thrilling finish of stage four of the 2022 Women’s Tour, when Australia’s Grace Brown (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope) sprinted to victory.

The stage will see riders head north to the picturesque seaside town of Llandudno, in what will be a challenging start to the race.

Stage two will see riders stay in Wales for a start and finish in Wrexham, which also featured in the 2022 Women’s Tour.

The caravan then will cross the Welsh border to the north-west of England, where Warrington will host both the start and finish of stage three on Saturday. The race concludes in Greater Manchester.

The race route has been designed and agreed in just 10 weeks, alongside the launch of a new vision for major cycling events in Britain.

Jon Dutton OBE, chief executive of British Cycling, said: “Our primary focus has been to deliver a safe and competitive race in 2024. We remain every bit as determined to harness the race’s spotlight to make a real impact in the communities which it touches. We know that is a vision which resonates strongly in conversations with prospective commercial partners and hosts.”
Rod Ellingworth, Tour of Britain race director, said: “The race will take in four competitive and challenging routes, some challenging climbing in Wales and what I’m sure will be brilliant crowds on the roadside throughout.”

Lizzie Deignan, former road world champion and Olympic silver medallist, said: “It’s always special to race in Britain, and I’m so pleased to have two top level stage races to look forward to on home soil as I ramp up my preparations for a busy summer ahead.

“There’s clearly so much support and fondness for the race, both at home and further afield. The four stage hosts deserve credit for their commitment to women’s racing and for helping to make the race happen, and I’m sure that together we can put on a brilliant show in June.”

Welsh Government Economy Secretary, Jeremy Miles said: “Wales and cycling go hand in hand, with our spectacular scenery and routes providing elite and recreational cyclists alike with both challenge and enjoyment.

“This is a welcome return to Wales for this fantastic event and provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Welshpool, Llandudno, Wrexham and the surrounding area to an ever-growing cycling audience.

“We are very pleased to have been able to support the event and look forward to providing a warm ‘Croeso’ to all in June.”

Powys County Council’s director of economic development and growth, Diane Reynolds, said: “We are delighted that this year’s Tour of Britain Women is going to start in Powys, from one of our many beautiful market towns, Welshpool.

“It is a town that cycling enthusiasts will enjoy visiting and the area includes many places of interest, and lots of great places to eat or drink a coffee while taking in the race action and exceptional scenery.”

Tourism

New chief executive pledges to continue supporting Mid Wales tourism sector

MWT Cymru, an advocate for tourism businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Meirionnydd, has announced a leadership change with the appointment of Zoe Hawkins as new chief executive.

With 14 years of dedicated service within the organisation, coupled with her first-hand experience as a business owner, Zoe has a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of the complexities faced by tourism businesses.

Zoe, who lives in Newtown, is looking forward to leading MWT Cymru, also known as Mid Wales Tourism, into a new era of growth and collaboration. She takes up her new post next month.

“I am immensely proud to take on the role of chief executive at MWT Cymru, an organisation dedicated to the prosperity of the tourism sector in Mid Wales,” said Zoe.

“Having been a part of this community for more than a decade, I’ve seen the resilience and creativity of our members. My commitment is to continue fostering a supportive environment where our tourism businesses can flourish.”

Zoe succeeds Val Hawkins, MBE, who retires after 25 years of leadership and more than 40 years working in the tourism sector. Val’s contributions to the organisation and the wider industry were recognised last year when she was awarded an MBE for her services to tourism and the Welsh economy.

“I am deeply honoured to carry on the legacy of Val’s exceptional leadership and am dedicated to further building upon the strong foundation she has established,” added Zoe.

As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, Machynlleth-based MWT Cymru stands as a vital support system for more than 600 independent tourism-related businesses in the Mid Wales region.

The organisation aims to serve these businesses by advocating on their behalf at both regional and national levels, ensuring their voices are heard in pivotal discussions affecting the future of tourism and our rural economy.

Val expressed confidence in Zoe’s leadership. “After 25 years of service to MWT Cymru, I am immensely proud of all that we have accomplished together,” she said.

“I have full faith in Zoe’s abilities to lead MWT Cymru into its next chapter, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to our members for their unwavering support throughout my tenure.”

Rowland Rees-Evans, MWT Cymru Chairman and director of Penrhos Park, Llanrhystud, added: “With her valuable knowledge and experience, Zoe is well placed to continue to support MWT Cymru member in the months and years ahead,” he said.

Since joining MWT Cymru in 2010, Zoe has played a pivotal role in various initiatives, joining as a business development officer, digital projects manager and then operations manager in 2019.

“Mid Wales is blessed with a vibrant community of independent businesses that not only contribute to our local economy but also serve as a unique draw for our tourism market,” added Zoe.

“Our region’s identity is intricately intertwined with its farming heritage, close-knit communities and family-owned businesses. It’s imperative that we collaborate to safeguard and promote these assets.”

Zoe says MWT Cymru will continue to prioritise collaboration and support among its members, emphasising the importance of working together to bolster the tourism sector and support rural businesses.

She also emphasised the organisation’s steadfast commitment to representing it member businesses at a regional and national level, as well as serving as a comprehensive resource for them, facilitating growth and promoting Mid Wales as a premier tourism destination.

Photo caption:

Zoe Hawkins, MWT Cymru’s new chief executive.

Business & Property News, Mid Wales, News, Tourism, Wales News

Conference speakers urge Welsh Government to listen to tourism industry

Tourism leaders have called on Welsh Government ministers to listen to the industry when developing policies that will impact businesses.

The call came from Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA) chairman Suzy Davies and Steve Hughson, chairman of both the Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum and the Event Wales Industry Advisory Group, when speaking at the Mid Wales Tourism Conference.

The sell-out conference, which attracted 120 delegates as well as exhibitors and sponsors, was held at the Metropole Hotel and Spa, Llandrindod Wells. The event was organised by MWT Cymru, an independent organisation representing around 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Snowdonia.

Mrs Davies said the WTA, which represents around 6,000 businesses in all sectors of tourism industry across Wales, was working with others to restore the industry’s relationship with the Welsh Government.

Mid Wales Regional Tourism Forum Steve Hughson addresses the conference.

There had been a breakdown in communications stemming from the introduction of the 182-day rule for self-catering accommodation in Wales. Self-catering accommodation that fails to be occupied for 182 days of the year now risks paying much higher council tax.

The WTA has been talking to the Welsh Government about the impact of the 182-day rule, a tourism tax and statutory registration of tourism accommodation, but Mrs Davies said it had not been listening and businesses had lost faith in the consultation processes.

“The current engagement structures don’t work for either the Welsh Government or the tourism industry,” she added. “The  industry must be in the room when the Welsh Government shapes and designs policy and we need to be listened to.”

She said there were signs that the Welsh Government was now beginning to listen to the industry’s collective voice, as a review of the 182-day rule had been promised and the tourism tax had been delayed until 2027.

“There is now a much better understanding of what we have been all saying for the past 18 months,” she added. “We must never find ourselves in this position again which is why we have organised a symposium in Newtown in January and we hope the Welsh Government will attend.”

Mr Hughson also stressed the importance of a united tourism industry working closely with the Welsh Government to influence and shape policies to ensure that they work well when introduced.

“We can get the Welsh Government and Visit Wales to change, so long as we work in partnership in a polite, respectful and evidence-based way,” he said. “It has never been more important that we work together.”

Regional tourism forums across Wales had an important role in making Welsh Government ministers in different policy areas aware of the cumulative effect of their policies on the tourism industry, he added.

MWT Cymru chairman Rowland Rees-Evans speaking at the Mid Wales Tourism Conference 2023.
Picture by Phil Blagg Photography.
PB220-2023

MWT Cymru chairman Rowland Rees-Evans thanked both Mrs Davies and Mr Hughson for their work on behalf of tourism businesses during a challenging time for the industry.

He referred to four consultation papers issued by the Welsh Government. “They will undoubtedly have a major impact on the industry when the legislation is implemented,” he said.

“We are already starting to see the effect of 182-day rule on self-catering holidays. As it stands at the moment, next year we will also have full business rates to contend with, among other changes.

“MWT Cymru has always tried to look after its members, business partners and community groups with help and support from our great team who try to get ahead of the curve whenever new legislation, rules and regulations are being put in front of us.”

Despites concerns about new legislation, he said there were positive signs that 2024 could be a better year for tourism businesses. Forward bookings were healthier than the same time last year and there was feeling that people, who did not take a holiday in Mid Wales this year due to the cost of living crisis, would return in 2024.

Header image caption:

Wales Tourism Alliance chairman Suzy Davies being interviewed by Phil Blizzard for a conference podcast.

News, North Wales, Tourism

Zip World Makes Strides In ‘Responsible Adventure’ Thanks To New Government Growth Deal

  • The outdoor activity giant has been allocated over £6m worth of matched funding, as part of the North Wales Growth Deal, to help lead the way in responsible adventure in the UK.
  • Zip World will use the funding to create jobs for locals during off-peak seasons and provide sustainable transports links between its sites and local rural communities.

Wales-based adventure company, Zip World, has announced exciting growth plans following an announcement from North Wales Ambition Board that it is to receive Growth Deal Funding.

Zip World has been allocated £6.2million worth of matched funding, subject to approval of a business case, as part of the North Wales Growth Deal to help them lead the way as a leading responsible tourism destination.

The North Wales Growth Deal is a £1billion investment to the region, £240million of which has been funded by both Welsh and UK Governments.

The outdoor activity giant, which provides visitors with unique and exhilarating experiences across its 29 attractions at seven UK sites, plans to use the funding as part of its ambitious ‘Responsible Adventure’ growth project over the next two years.

In addition to a new cable car experience that will improve the experiences of those visiting North Wales, the funding will provide sustainable transport links between its sites and rural communities through a new electric bus network.

 

Andrew Hudson, Zip World’s Chief Commercial Officer who led the strategy behind the bid, said:

“This funding will play a crucial role in transforming and widening our offering to tourists visiting North Wales all year round to help strengthen the region’s sustainable and thriving economy.

“Among the exciting new projects on the horizon is the creation of a cable car experience that will enable people of all abilities to enjoy the stunning North Wales landscape from an easily accessible view point.

“The project will also benefit local communities by creating more year-round job opportunities that reduces the dependency on peak holiday periods, and the new eBus network will help ease seasonality congestion in the area.”

Zip World estimates the funding will allow them to boost the North Wales economy by an additional £6.8 million per year.

An Economic Impact Assessment carried out by North Wales Tourism found that Zip World had already helped contribute an estimated £251million economic boost to the local region between 2013 to 2018.

A new economic study, due to be carried out this summer, is expected to show significant growth in its economic impact on the local area, having almost doubled its visitor numbers since the last report.

This has been helped by recent launches including the world’s first underground adventure golf course and its newest gravity-powered adventure, Aero Explorer, in Llechwedd and Penrhyn Quarry respectively.

 

Rhodri Owen, Zip World’s Head of Projects for the North Wales Growth Bid, added:

“We are extremely honoured and excited that our new ‘Responsible Adventure project’ is one of five to join the North Wales Growth Deal.

“The funding from the bid is an extremely positive next step towards us becoming a B Corp company, as well as helping us to build a more vibrant, sustainable, and resilient local economy.”

News, North Wales, Tourism, Wales News

Zip World Launches New Gravity-Powered Adventure

  • Zip World launches new Aero Explorer experience at Penrhyn Quarry site
  • Riders will reach speeds of up to 30mph while being suspended over 35m in the air
  • New attraction at former world’s largest slate quarry will launch in time for summer

UK-based adventure company Zip World has announced the launch of its latest exhilarating adventure, Aero Explorer, a spiral suspension track powered entirely by gravity.

Located at the Zip World Penrhyn Quarry site – already home to the fastest zip line in the world – Aero Explorer will provide adventurers with a unique new experience as they soar across the 400m track at speeds of up to 30mph.

Set to open to the public from Wednesday 26th May 2023, visitors will be suspended in the air via a harness attachment as they take in breath-taking views of what once was the world’s largest slate quarry.

Along its 400m long suspended track, Aero Explorer features two spiral turns that riders will experience as they descend the structures.

Harnessing nothing but the natural topography of the area, the ride itself will be completely powered by gravity, with riders descending to ground level within 3-5 minutes.

Aero Explorer marks the fifth adventure at the North Wales site, joining Velocity 2, Quarry Flyer, Quarry Karts, and the Penrhyn Quarry Tour and becomes Zip World’s 24th attraction.

 

Zip World Founder and president Sean Taylor said:

“The Zip World Penrhyn Quarry site will join the company’s four other Welsh locations and two in the North of England, with more attractions set to launch by the end of 2023.”

 

Tickets for Aero Explorer are now on sale via the Zip World website. Prices start at £22 for a single rider, and £70 for a group of four. Each ticket includes two rides.

Aero Explorer is designed to be suitable for all the family to enjoy, with the attraction open to children with a height of 1m and above.

 

Visit www.zipworld.co.uk/adventure/gravity-explorer for more information.

Awards, Food & Drink, News, Scotland, Tourism

Stirling Distillery Win Visitor Attraction of the Year

Stirling Distillery, situated in the shadow of Stirling Castle, has been awarded Visitor Attraction of the Year at Stirling Business Awards.

The distillery beat off competition from Stirling Castle and the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum to win the award. Stirling Distillery is situated in a converted Victorian building on Lower Castlehill just a short walk from the Castle and has been awarded a Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award for their gin and whisky experiences for several years.

Boasting over 600 5-star reviews on Tripadvisor, a 3 star VisitScotland rating and a popular destination for coach tours, thousands of people visit the distillery to enjoy their whiskies and award-winning gins and gin liqueurs every year as well as attending their weekly gin school. The distillery also hosts monthly cocktail masterclasses and can be hired out for events for 60 people. Visit https://stirlingdistillery.com/ for more information.

More than 16,000 votes were cast for the companies nominated in the ten categories for the inaugural awards which are run by Go Forth Stirling BID. The event was headlined by Celtic rock band Red Hot Chilli Pipers and hosted by Central FM.

Stirling Distillery is well known for celebrating the rich history and folklore of the famous Scottish city through their product range. To celebrate their win, Stirling Distillery are offering 50% off tours until the end of March. Use code Winner50 at check out. Book here: https://stirlingdistillery.com/visit-our-distillery/

 

About Stirling Distillery

Stirling Distillery, established in 2015, is steeped in Scottish history. Located in the shadow of Stirling Castle, central Scotland, it is the city’s first legal distillery. Offering a range of gins and whiskies all with historic relevance, the distillery is open daily for gin experiences, tastings and a weekly gin school.

Outdoors, Tourism, Travel

How To Book A Luxury Ski Holiday

A quick guide to booking a luxury ski holiday:

  1. Get your group together and decide on dates. Remember, the most expensive weeks with accommodation will be Christmas and new years. The most negotiable rates will be at the start and end of the season (as well as last minute bookings).

  2. Set a budget. When it comes to skiing, it’s best to know your total budget for the trip before enquiring.

  3. Decide on your ski resort. If you’re unsure which resort will suite you best, speak with a luxury ski holiday expert like The Luxury Chalet Company who will guide you on the best resort for your vacation (they know which resorts are best for all groups; family’s, beginners, corporate retreats, off piste skiing, advanced skiers, ultimate luxury getaways and special occasions).

  4. Decide on your luxury chalet. These days, anything is possible! Rental properties with hot tubs, saunas, cinema rooms, private bars and private chefs are standard. There is no limit to any other requirements for your chalet.

  5. Get your luxury chalet booked. A deposit (usually 25%) will be required to secure the property for travel dates further than 60 days. The remainder of the balance or the full amount will be required for bookings under 60 days away. A security deposit usually held on credit card will also be required. Remember, they may be options for negotiations for last minute bookings.

  6. Get your flights and transfer sorted. Private jet and helicopter transfer will always be the quickest and easiest way to arrive, however some groups like the benefits of having their car in resort.

  7. Get your custom itinerary. From heli skiing to restaurants bookings, it’s always a wise idea to have at least a rough itinerary for your holiday. A ski guide on the first day is always recommended (rough cost £500 per day per group). Your itinerary may also include lift passes on arrival and recommended ski gear rental shops as well as best mountain lunches and evening activities.

  8. Pack your bags and go! Don’t forget suncream for those blue bird days!

Make sure you’ve got winter sports insurance. With the average cost of 20,000 for on piste evacuation by heli, the bills keep adding up from there.

The Luxury Chalet Company are experts when it comes to organizing luxury ski holidays and matching clients with their dream luxury chalet. A booking with them will ensure all of your holiday is taken care of, from start to finish and everything in between.

A luxury skiing holiday is an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of skiing with the comfort and extravagance of a five-star resort. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, a luxury skiing holiday is the perfect way to escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains. The first aspect that sets a luxury skiing holiday apart from a regular ski trip is the quality of the accommodation. From grand chalets to opulent suites, the lodgings available in luxury ski resorts are nothing short of spectacular. They are equipped with every modern amenity you could imagine, including plush bedding, fireplaces, saunas, hot tubs, gyms, cinemas, spa areas, swimming pools, wine cellars, cigar lounges and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape.

The second aspect that defines a luxury ski holiday is the level of service provided. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted by friendly and attentive staff who are always on hand to ensure that your stay is as comfortable and as enjoyable as possible. Whether you need help with your ski equipment, a recommendation for a restaurant, a massage, or a warm blanket for après ski, the staff are always happy to help.

Another defining feature of a luxury skiing holiday is the quality of the ski slopes and facilities. The best European ski resorts have well-groomed slopes that are suitable for skiers of all levels, from beginners to advanced. The slopes are also equipped with multiple gondoliers and numerous ski lifts that take you effortlessly to the top of the mountain, allowing you to spend more time skiing and less time waiting in line.

In addition to the ski slopes, luxury ski resorts also offer a variety of other activities for guests to enjoy. From snowmobiling to ice skating, there is something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. For those who prefer to relax and be pampered, there are also on-site spas that offer a range of treatments, from hot stone massages to aromatherapy.

After a day on the slopes, a luxury ski holiday offers a variety of dining options that are sure to please even the most discerning palates. From michelin star chefs inside your own private chalet to gourmet restaurants serving exquisite local cuisine, there is something for everyone. The best ski resorts also offer après ski options, including bar crawls, live music, and dancing, for those who want to keep the party going into the night.

Finally, a luxury skiing holiday provides the opportunity to indulge in some retail therapy. From designer boutiques selling high-end clothing and accessories to quaint local shops selling handmade crafts, the ski resorts offer a wealth of shopping opportunities.

In conclusion, a luxury skiing holiday is the ultimate way to escape the stress of everyday life and immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of the mountains. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience filled with luxury, comfort, and adventure. So, pack your bags, grab your skis, and head to the mountains for a holiday you will never forget!

 

Camping News, North Wales, Tourism, Travel

UK’s largest independent holiday park operators snap up 5 Gwynedd parks into Lyons den

A DENBIGHSHIRE-based family-run tourism group has now peaked as the largest independent holiday park operators in the UK following a multi-million pound deal this week.

Lyons Holiday Parks, founded in Rhyl in 1924, have now expanded into their fourth county in North Wales as Sunnysands Caravan Parks Limited was signed over to the fifth-generation business.

Before their latest western Wales acquisition, the Lyons Group currently operate 14 holiday parks in North Wales and Cumbria, welcome over hundreds of thousands of guests each year to their destinations, and currently employ more than 500 permanent and seasonal team members.

With five new parks near Barmouth, including Lyons Sunnysands Holiday Park, Lyons Snowdon View Holiday Park, Lyons Caerelwan Holiday Park, Lyons Moelfre View Holiday Park, and Lyons Tyddyn Goronwy Holiday Park, the Lyons empire now operates 20 sites across Flintshire, Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd, and Allonby in Cumbria, offering over 6,000 pitches in total.

The entire portfolio, which began catering to guests with converted double-decker buses in 1930’s Rhyl, now boasts a wealth of accommodation including caravans for hire, static holiday homes to purchase, touring pitches, camping pitches, glamping pods, two hotels, holiday cottages and a farmhouse to hire, as well as a leisure resort with log cabins and hotel rooms that is currently under construction.

Having dominated the North Wales coast from Holywell to Penmaenmawr for decades, the decision to migrate the award-winning business to mid-Wales was the next natural move for the ‘ever expanding empire.’

The Lyons Mounds men at Snowdon View in Llanberis

Last June, an analysis of mobile data revealed that Talybont in Barmouth, the location of the main site Sunnysands, saw the biggest increase in visits of any coastal town in England and Wales.

Sunnysands’ park’s prime locations in Barmouth and Snowdon were a huge appeal to the Lyons Group, who plan to continue offering holidays to some of the millions of tourists who flock to West Wales each summer.

The other deciding factor was the close-knit, family run history that Sunnysands bequeathed, having remained safely in the same hands of the Mead family for over 50 years. This familial factor is what director Geoff Lyons Mound Senior, whose Grandfather Joe Lyons established the Lyons Camp in Rhyl in 1924, deems as the ‘winning chip’ of any business venture.

Mr Lyons Mound, alongside his two sons Geoff and Joseph Lyons Mound, along with their sons Geoff Lyons Mound Jnr and Danny Lyons Mound, and Joseph Lyons Mound Jnr and Levi Lyons Mound, attended the official handover in Sunnysands this week (picture.)

Joseph Lyons Mound said: “To be here with my father, my brother, my sons and my nephews, taking on this new venture in an area untapped by the Lyons name is incredible. We’re all extremely proud to be a part of this family, and each one of us has contributed to the expansion of this company in some way.

“My father has been a significant participant in North Wales’s tourism sector for over six decades, and has seen some huge changes, developments, and demolitions in his career. Knowing that he is now passing on his knowledge and experience to both my son Joseph Jnr, and my brother’s son Geoff Jnr, means everything to us and encompasses everything it is to be a ‘family-run’ business.”

The young directors, both in their early twenties, will be playing a major part in operating the five new Gwynedd parks.

Joseph Lyons Mound Jnr said: “We’re keen to evolve the Lyons brand in West Wales and maintain the company’s longstanding reputation and bring in things we know have worked for us in the past at our parks in Denbighshire and Conwy. We’ve been doing this for almost 100 years, and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved in this time.”

The directors of the Lyons Group took time to meet the existing team who have been dedicated to the Sunnysands brand over the past half decade. Joseph Lyons Mound said: “We’re very fortunate to be able to continue working with those who have supported the Meads over the past few years, and who have a wealth of local knowledge and expertise.

“We understand that company takeovers after many happy years can sometimes be unsettling, so our goal this week was to answer any questions, and reassure these wonderful people that they, as well as their jobs, are in safe hands. It’s all about the coming together of two families to share knowledge, learn from each other, and support each other across multiple venues. We’re all here for the same thing: to maintain North Wales’ status as a top tourist destination and to ensure our guests have the best experience.”

The Lyons Group’s mission statement has never rung so true: to be the preferred holiday destination for affordable family holidays where guests can make precious memories for years to come – with such a wealth of accommodation available, the directors feel this goal will be achievable with their new integrated teams.

Geoff Lyons Mound Jnr said: “We’re so fortunate here in North Wales to be sat among history, wherever we go. All it takes is one trip to the beautiful Lyons Snowdon View Caravan Park in Llanberis to be reminded of our ancestry, both in the natural world and in the industrial world. The landscape of Lyons Sunnysands, where the mountains meet the sea is just stunning, and it’s our job now to protect and preserve this landscape for generations to come.”

Geoff Lyons Mound said: “We’re Lyons Holiday Parks. We’re investors, we’re visionaries, and we love nothing more than upgrading and investing in our parks to ensure the best experience possible for our guests. Whenever we have building plans, we do our utmost to use local suppliers and tradespeople, because although the tourism industry in Wales appeals to a global market, it all starts here with the community.”

Charity & CSR, News, North Wales, Tourism

Thanks Tourism! 4k Raised For Local Children’s Charity At North Wales Holiday Parks

LOCAL children of families living on the breadline will be reaping the generosity of guests from a popular holiday park group this season.

Lyons Holiday Parks, North Wales’s leading family holiday park group, has raised over £4,000 in aid of North Wales Superkids following two fundraising campaigns this season.

North Wales Superkids is a charity which helps relieve the needs of children and young people up to the age of 25 who are socially and economically disadvantaged – whether through financial hardship, domestic violence, health, substance misuse or other social and economic factors.

Generous donations from holiday makers and holiday homeowners from all over the UK have been totted up following an Easter ‘chick appeal,’ and a black-tie charity event this weekend at Lyons Eryl Hall in St Asaph.

The ‘chick appeal’ saw the Lyons groups’ coastal and countryside holiday parks flooded with thousands of knitted chicks, each containing a Cadbury’s Crème Egg, which were sold over the Easter period at 14 of the Lyons-owned bars and venues from Lyons Lido Beach in Prestatyn right through to the ownership, touring, and camping holiday park, Lyons Pendyffryn Hall near Penmaenmawr.

Ailsa Morris, head of food and beverage, said: “When the opportunity came up to help Margaret, we didn’t even have to think about it. We put the chicks in every one of our on-park bars or coffee shops and before we knew it, there were thousands floating about everywhere!

“They went down an absolute storm and were especially popular with our owners. It really struck us the generosity of some people, and our team were keen to spread the message about Superkids and the work that they do.”

Following the success of the egg-cellent appeal, Chris Watts, park manager of the exclusive owners-only holiday park in St Asaph, decided more was to be done for the local cause.

He said: “Although Lyons Eryl Hall is a holiday park, the word ‘community’ or ‘country village’ is more fitting, and what better way to celebrate our lovely community here than with a charity event to bring everyone together.

“Our owners are always incredible when it comes to fundraising appeals, and seeing how popular the chicks were, it just felt right to host a charity ball here in aid of the charity.

Dozens of donations were received for the raffle and auction, including a trip to Milan, spa day at The White House Rhuallt, a free gas test from David Roe, a bath hamper from Del Creations and cleaning services from TT Cleaning.

Chris added: “The night was spectacular, a proper team effort, and it was fantastic to see our holiday homeowners here on-park enjoy themselves all in aid of a great cause. The venue looked fantastic, thanks to our dedicated team, who we couldn’t have done this without.

“We love hosting events like this for our owners – we do across all of our parks – and the fact it was for charity made the atmosphere all the more special.”

Founder Margaret Williams, from Flint, who has over 30 years’ experience in the North Wales social care scene, said: “On behalf of all at North Wales Superkids, I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Lyons Holiday Parks, and also to your wonderful holiday visitors for buying and eating our Crème Eggs chicks.

“The Lyons effort raised an amazing total of £613, and £2133.10 overall from all outlets which will be going towards our caravan project in Pwllheli.

“I would also like to say a heartfelt thank you for the amazing news that the summer ball held at Lyons Eryl Hall in St Asaph raised an absolutely staggering £2000. This will be vital for our Christmas Toy Box appeal project, ensuring that all referred children and young people can wake up on Christmas morning with smiles rather than tears, knowing Santa has not forgotten them.”

The Lyons Group will continue working alongside North Wales Superkids throughout the year in order to help as many families as possible.

Joseph Lyons Mound, company director said: “Look how amazing it is that holidaymakers and holiday homeowners did this, it’s incredible. We’re proud of the communities we continue to build across the North Wales coast and country, bringing people together from all parts of the country in such fantastic locations.

“We’re also dedicated to our own community, the locals who make North Wales the beauty that it is and as they give so much to us, we always want to give what we can back. Superkids as an organisation, and the work that Margaret does for it, is just absolutely phenomenal and we’re proud to be working in partnership with a charity that brings more joy and comfort to North Wales’s children than any of us can put into words.”