CL owners - A business idea

We have no problem whatsoever phoning CLs. Don't forget some of them are in locations where broadband coverage is poor as well. Booking online doesn't always answer all the questions we like to ask.  Good if they have a website, but not an essential for us.

They can only "cut themselves free" from any oganisation that holds an exception  certificate if they get planning permission to change to a commercial site

IanTG, many of the CLs now do have e-mail addresses, however there are even a few of those that do not immediately respond, unfortunately. However bad the CC's web site has been the inclusion on the relevant CL's e-mail addresses is a definite plus.

The reality is , its not very difficult to get planning for 10/15 units and the fee is negligible in the total cost of development. Hence why so many go down that route and not open as Cls. There are a plethora  of organisations out there, many government organisations which  give advise to farmers on Diversification and this is one of the  most common routes.

We still offer a special offer a special deal for 7 nights stay. We have done since 2008. We are only £9 per night including EHU, but offer 7 nights for £55. Never changed the price, have lots of repeats and love what we do. It's our hobby, so as long as we cover our costs, we are happy.

Next year is our 10th Anniversary, trying to think of something special to do. Any ideas?

If you still have the records, how about some kind of freebee for anyone that visited you in your inaugural year?  I am not suggesting this out of self-interest as this would not include me.

Harry brings up a very good point and idea to assist CL owners by promoting repeat bookings, and Ian TG also makes an excellent point regarding on-line booking and communications with CL Owners.

The Club has/is looking at a CL booking system.  How it would work has not been discussed.  Whether CL's would adopt it is also a moot point.  

I know many CL's that like to operate on a cash basis with minimal records and scrutiny.  They would probably fight shy of any over-arching system, but may realise in the long term that they would lose bookings.  

The Club would certainly like to know how many nights are booked on CL's, by whom and how much revenue they are making!  Big business these days is all about the data.

On a more positive note, a growing number of CL's have already implemented their own on-line booking.  These systems are not expensive (some are free) and they provide potential visitors (Members) the ability to immediately ascertain availability and book a provisional or confirmed pitch.  This is better than relying on email / phone.  2/3 of CL owners have another job so they can't be expected to respond immediately to an email or phone message, however I accept that this is now an expectation of Members who want to quickly and efficiently book their trips.

Here at Cholsey Grange we have had Online booking for around 4 years and I wouldn't be without it.  We also offer visitors staying more than a week a discount.  A 'Loyalty Card' is something to consider.

Oh, and just to set the record straight, the number of CL's is currently just under 2,300 (March) although the website shows less than this because a number are pending awaiting re-certification.

This is an interesting discussion.  Personally I don't mind how I book; online or by phone or email enquiry.  I will be sorry if CL numbers diminish considerably as my wife and I would prefer to give up caravanning rather than stay on a Club Site.

Cl Owners now have to pay to be members regardless of being caravan or motorhome users. So they do pay.

Talked to the owner of the site I'm on at the moment and they are just about full from April to October for 2017/2018 and 2019 and have had enquiries for 2020.  Clearly some CL have got their model bang on.