Willerby opens new showground to support staycation boom

EXPANSION: Willerby Commercial Director Matt Lightburn, left, and Southport Showground Manager Shane Smith. Picture by 43 Clicks North

Hull-based holiday homes pioneer Willerby has opened its third showground as the booming popularity of staycations continues in the UK.

The opening of Willerby’s newest showground, at Southport, on the North West coast, during the company’s special 75th anniversary year, comes as lockdown restrictions are eased to allow holiday parks and non-essential retail to open.

The latest dedicated, Willerby-managed site builds on the success of the company’s showgrounds at its headquarters in Hull, and at Livingston, in Scotland, and marks a new milestone in the company’s growth.

The new showground’s location in the seaside town means it is perfectly positioned to showcase Willerby’s outstanding range of models to consumers, dealerships and holiday park operators across the North West, North Wales and the Lake District.

Willerby has invested £750,000 in its latest showground and the opening comes as the UK holiday industry is set to enjoy a bumper spring and summer, with Covid-19 restrictions lifting nationally, while uncertainty remains over foreign travel.

Peter Munk, CEO of Willerby, said: “This is a very exciting step in Willerby’s journey, as we celebrate our 75th anniversary year.

“We are very proud of the company’s history and rich heritage, but it is important to always look forward.

“The opening of our wonderful new showground, in a prime location for the holiday home industry, comes as the country begins to open back up after an incredibly challenging time.

“It has also been a period when many people have realised that spending time with family and friends is what really matters to them and, in this respect, the UK staycation has never been more appealing.”

LAUNCH: Willerby’s latest model, the Astoria, can be viewed at its new Southport showground. Picture by 43 Clicks North

Research conducted last year by Willerby, working with GP and television personality Dr Hilary Jones, revealed the significant mental health benefits of taking numerous short breaks over longer holidays.

Mr Munk said the issue has never been more important, as the country emerges from its third national lockdown.

“At a time when many people are looking at how they can make the best and most enjoyable use of their time, the positive impact short breaks can have on mental health are being widely acknowledged,” said Mr Munk.

“Many people are considering buying a holiday home for the first time and, as a trusted brand with a strong tradition and reputation, we can help them make the best decision for themselves and their families.

“Our new showground also provides a great opportunity for Willerby to help the industry showcase what a truly fantastic and beneficial lifestyle holiday home owners enjoy.”

Willerby now has more showgrounds than any other UK holiday home manufacturer.

The Southport showground is hosting the launch of Willerby’s latest premium holiday home, the Astoria, which has pride of place among 15 Willerby designs on display, including 10 holiday homes, three holiday lodges, one bespoke lodge and one residential park home.

Willerby Commercial Director Matt Lightburn said: “Southport is the ideal location to open our third showground as there are so many fantastic, family-owned holiday parks along the North West coast and close by in popular locations such as North Wales and the Lake District.

“Consumers will be able to visit and have a really good look at our unrivalled range of models. We’re looking forward to providing them with friendly advice and guidance to help them choose their perfect home from home.”