We chat with Anna Burt, Director of The UK Caravan Centre, to discuss the park industry, her role in it, and what she likes to do when not working.
Hi Anna, we’ve not met before, so tell me how you came to be in the park industry?
Hiya Justin, hopefully we will meet soon……. I was introduced by my sister Catherine who had worked in the industry for a few years before. She approached me to set up a small business selling Delta caravans We both had full time jobs, so it started very gradually and with just one home. Now it has grown into our main focus – We’ve a great team helping us to push the business forward and offering a great service to our customers.
Of all the things in the industry, what is your favourite thing you like to do?
I love meeting new people, our industry has such a diverse and wonderful bunch of people. It has been great getting to know them through the BH&HPA meetings, the shows and of course the pubs after the shows…
What do you think is in store for the industry in the next 24 months?
I think we have a extremely exciting next couple of years, with hopefully a lot of opportunities. Whilst people won’t have as much money, I am confident that the caravan industry will fair well as caravans are ultimately affordable accommodation.
If you weren’t in the park industry, what would you be doing?
Our family background is in property developing, so I would most likely follow in those steps, which is still accommodation, but not nearly as fun.
What do you like to do when not working? Any hobbies?
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my friends and family. I also love to hike and sail and I don’t mind a holiday or five
Do you have any words of advice for those starting in the industry?
Talk to everyone……The industry is so friendly and everyone is always willing to help.
Who in our series would you like to be seen interviewed?
I would love for you to interview someone from the council to see how they view the housing crisis and how caravan sites can help with this.
To read the Kate Tidy from Annesley Gandon interview, click here.