Blackpool Resort creates jobs thanks to staycation boom

Self-catering accommodation provider Blackpool Resort has created 24 jobs and plans to expand its property portfolio as a result of a rise in staycation holidays.

The company also recently secured a premises licence for its Blackpool Resort Coffee Lounge, enabling it to launch a a bespoke drinks service.

Blackpool Resort offers three and four-star accommodation for families and couples across 60 self-contained apartments and eight houses, hosting up to 340 guests each day during peak season.

Mark Brockbank, general manager for Blackpool Resort, said: "Footfall in Blackpool is reportedly up 120 per cent this summer and demand for self-catering accommodation like ours has gone through the roof, so these are exciting times for us.

"All our properties are within walking distance of our Blackpool Resort Coffee Lounge and so being able to offer alcoholic drink options has enabled us to create a relaxed space for guests to enjoy both during the day and in the evenings, while the accommodation drinks packages allow us to offer something a little more personalised to what you would get with a typical self-catering property.”

Mark added: “We had six directly employed staff in March this year and now we have 30. It’s been great to see the Blackpool tourism industry getting back on its feet and doing what it does best, which is providing great holidays and experiences.”

The company secured its premises licence with help from the leisure and licensing team at Harrison Drury solicitors. 

David Edwards, partner at Harrison Drury, who worked closely with Mark on the project, said: “Mark’s passion for the Blackpool tourism industry is inspiring. He wants the resort to succeed and become known not just for its many attractions but also the quality of its holiday accommodation. Having the ability to offer drinks packages to guests is a fantastic idea that can help the business stand out.”

Malcolm Ireland, head of leisure and licensing at Harrison Drury, added: “The hospitality sector is emerging from the toughest time it has have ever endured, but out of every challenge comes new opportunities. Blackpool Resort is fantastic example of a leisure and hospitality business that is innovating to maximise the post-lockdown boom, but also what has been a longer-term growth in domestic tourism.”

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