Ethos Public Relations Manchester

HF Holidays joins Co-operativesUK

by Ethos public relations

Hertfordshire-based HF Holidays has become the newest member of Co-operatives^UK - the national trade association for all forms of co-operative enterprise.

HF Holidays is the UK's largest walking, cycling and leisure activity holidays provider, offering led holidays at all levels and for all abilities, plus independent trails throughout the UK, Europe and Worldwide.

HF Holidays is a membership society, set up in 1913, and is owned by over 29,000 members. As it approaches its 100th anniversary it is keen to promote its co-operative heritage and is planning to work with Co-operatives^UK to promote the message that co-operative forms of business are more relevant today than ever.

And as Co-operatives^UK is the national trade association for co-operative businesses, it was only natural that HF Holidays would become members. Now, working closely with Co-operatives^UK, HF Holidays is planning to strengthen its links with the co-operative movement and to develop and build on its unique position in the market.

"HF Holidays offers a unique blend of sociable, active, enjoyable and responsible holidays for all communities, nationalities, ages and backgrounds" says Brian Smith, HF Holidays' Chief Executive. "Our guests are welcomed as individuals and we have the experience and history to match our youthful approach to life and to people. That is why 94% of guests state that they will holiday with us again, and the do."

Ed Mayo, Secretary General of Co-operatives^UK, said: "We are delighted to welcome HF Holidays to Co-operatives^UK. Our role is to promote and support co-operatives and to offer them a collective voice. HF Holidays has operated on co-operative principles since it was formed over 90 years ago and we are looking forward to helping them promote this fact."

HF Holidays' asset base is valued at £20million, including a property portfolio of Country Houses with over 500 bedrooms. 15 of the properties are wholly-owned and a further two are managed on 25 year leases from the National Trust.

The properties are used as bases for walking, cycling and leisure activity holidays and all surplus made is re-invested back into the organisation. Over 50,000 guests holiday with the society each year.

HF Holidays exists primarily for the benefit of its members and guests, and its operations are monitored and directed by a voluntary Board of Directors.

To find out more about HF Holidays, please visit the website at www.hfholidays.co.uk.

Posted at 18^th November 2009