Website aids Blue Chip Vacations expansion

Upmarket holiday lettings company Blue Chip Vacations has doubled its bookings business in 12 months, more than doubled its staff and just moved into larger premises at Brixham Enterprise Estate.

Managing director Liam Gavin is delighted with progress, which includes a newly-unveiled website.He added: "A year ago we were a staff of seven in offices above the Fore Street community centre, now our numbers have grown to 16 employees and bookings are up 100 per cent. It's an exciting time for us all."

Set up seven years ago, Blue Chip Vacations now handles more than 300 hand-picked properties in the West Country and concentrates on four-star and five-star accommodation.

The move has coincided with the launch of an ambitious new website for the company, which allows users to check prices and availability in real time, then book a property online.

Each property, reviewed every year, has been chosen for its desirable location, coastal or rural views or hi-spec interior.

Clients are offered Google Maps, allowing holidaymakers to see a bird's eye view of their holiday property, as well as find local attractions and amenities.

Mr Gavin added: "The internet has revolutionised the holiday market.

"Whereas people used to sit down and book their holidays in January, more and more they are leaving it later. They want to be able to choose, see and book a property in one go. Companies have had to re-think their strategy and Blue Chip is at the forefront of this with our innovative new website."

It's a growing trend with more than 90 per cent of customers checking and booking online. They prefer the convenience of browsing at home, he said, checking availability and what the property offers. "We have spent much time and money on refining and improving our website."

Short breaks are increasingly important and accommodation providers need to be flexible in the way they approach bookings, he added. One big factor in last-minute bookings is weather and the company offers a 24-hour service.

The business had an upside for owners - the revenue not only provides a welcome boost to their annual income, but can also allow them to keep the cottage in tip-top condition. "For many it's an investment as well as a luxury."

Mr Gavin added: "Over the last year we have expanded into Cornwall and North Devon.

"We expect to increase our footprint across the South West over the next year, while remaining committed to being the best provider of self-catering accommodation in Torbay."

Environmentalism is another facet of the business. "We're committed to supporting green tourism initiatives such as the Green Tourism Business Scheme award. While we continue to bring more and more visitors to the South West, we want to ensure it's done in a sustainable way."

Reservations: 01803 855282
Website: www.bluechipvacations.com/

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Press information: Simon Whittam, Blue Chip Vacations – 01803 855282