Hoseasons has reported that trade bookings for the late May bank holiday period are up 49% year-on-year, as Brexit uncertainty continues to affect the market.
And breaks booked by the trade for June, July and August are already 17% up, compared to this time last year.
The buoyant travel trade sales reflect the domestic operator’s wider experience in the market, as it has seen a strong Easter and a surge in bookings for May and beyond.
Hoseasons sold 16% more Easter breaks this year than in 2018 and is seeing a 20% year-on-year increase in short break bookings for May.
It is also reporting a 24% year-on-year increase in sales of weekend short breaks.
Simon Altham (pictured), chief portfolio officer for Awaze UK – the parent company of Hoseasons – said a lack of clarity on Brexit and recent good weather are responsible for the bookings boom.
“There’s no doubt the continuing confusion over Brexit has had a positive impact on UK bookings,” he said.
“Standards of UK accommodation and facilities have improved so much over the last decade that holidaymakers are now actively seeking out luxury, hassle-free short breaks closer to home at a time when they may have concerns about going further afield.
“The good weather has also played its part, but the impact of industry investment should not be underestimated.
“Customer expectations have rocketed in recent years so it’s no surprise that the locations we see performing best are the ones where owners have been prepared to improve their offer and, in turn, wow their guests.”
Hot tub breaks have been particularly popular for Hoseasons in 2019, with 21% more hot tub breaks sold so far this year compared to the same point in 2018.