03/02/2009

Pontin's To Create 2,000 New Jobs

Holiday camp chain Pontin's has announced it is to create 2,000 new jobs as it redevelops its holiday centres.

Owners Ocean Parcs confirmed it will be investing £50 million in its six UK sites. The new posts will include catering, retail and bar staff as well as Blue Coats and will involve a mixture of full time, part time and seasonal positions.

Ian Smith, Ocean Parcs chief executive, said: "We are tremendously excited about the investment planned for the development of our Pontin's holiday centres and the employment and tourism revenue that will be generated by this substantial investment.

"It is particularly rewarding to be able to announce these plans which will not only generate increased tourism but create over 2,000 new jobs whilst the country is in a recession."

The group operates the holiday parks around the UK, at Blackpool, Brean Sands, Camber Sands, Pakefield, Prestatyn Sands and Southport.

It was bought over by Ocean Parcs in a £46 million deal, last year.

Analysts have predicted that domestic holiday chains may benefit from the economic downturn, with holidaymakers seeking more affordable vacations.

Pontin's owners said bookings for half term, Easter and Summer 2009 were "significantly up".

(JM/BMcC)

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