According to findings from the Wet Leisure Industry Survey released in January, the industry is planning on another strong year despite political and economic uncertainty.
More than 86 percent of survey respondents expect to enjoy a 2019 falling somewhere between ‘OK’ and ‘Extremely Good’, something which organiser Golden Coast hopes rings true.
Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams explains: “Thanks to overwhelming support from the industry’s leading organisations, including BISHTA, BSPF and ISPE, and key trade publications, the survey is now in its seventh year.
“That length of time provides real insights into the industry’s trends and thinking. Year in, year out, we see evidence that businesses typically expect the year ahead to be much like the one that’s just finished. Last year’s outstanding weather certainly played a role in many companies’ successes.”
While most respondents hold an optimistic view of the year ahead, the survey also highlighted the challenges they felt the future might hold. Respondents raised concerns over meeting ever-increasing customer expectations, training and recruitment, and legislative updates, including Brexit.
“Brexit certainly remains as the biggest question mark on the horizon,” says Jamie. “Nearly one in three respondents specifically mentioned it in their comments. However, whether you see it as a problem or an opportunity, no one can say exactly what its effect will be.
“Questions are also being raised around the level of training and skills in the industry. There’s a feeling that good staff are becoming increasingly hard to find. So, as an industry, should we be committing resources to this?”
Results from the Wet Leisure Industry Survey can be viewed now at www.wetleisure.com. Jamie adds: “On the website you’ll find previous year’s results – allowing you to identify potential business opportunities and benchmark your success.
“We would like to thank everyone who took part in the survey and encourage many more to do so moving forward. By sharing your views, you’re helping to create an even more detailed and accurate view of our industry.”
