We all like to get away from it all now and again. But the number of places you can go where you can feel truly alone – rather than being crammed in amongst umpteen other families – are few and far between. Fortunately, The Secret Campsite, the East Sussex-based camping company, is looking to address this problem, offering an opportunity for potential franchisees to replicate its nature-focused, secluded camping experience around the country.
Having featured on the Guardian’s list of ten best campsites in the UK, The Secret Campsite allows visitors to camp in spacious pitches surrounded by nature, with saplings helping to screen each plot from its neighbour. The Tree Tent and The Gridshell – two special shelters created by local designer Jason Thawley – allow visitors a more unique place to relax in nature. Being environmentally minded, The Secret Campsite is also designed to enable local wildlife to flourish, has been landscaped with a range of edible plants and has a solar-powered shower and toilet block.
“Over the past three summers I’ve had so many customers tell me that I’m living their dream but they have no idea how to get started or what’s involved in running such a project,” said Tim Bullen, owner of The Secret Campsite. “I’ve set up the franchise business model to take the concept nationwide.”
Bullen believes a Secret Campsite franchise would be perfect for small holders, farmers, retirees or young families that own at least eight acres of land. Overall the start-up costs will total at least £35,000 but the franchise is estimated to generate around £75,000 operating seven months a year. Those buying into the franchise will be given comprehensive training, advice on planning permission, marketing support, an online booking system, IT equipment and exclusive rights to their territory for ten years.
All prospective franchisees are encouraged to get their pitches in now.”
Josh Russell
When he isn't tooling around on trains in a tux like the Daniel Craig of the Greater Anglia transport system, Russell spends his time living the glamourous life of an enterprise journalist, judging Digital Business of the Year at the National Business Awards and attending conferences like NixonMcInnes' Meaning 2013. However, like all good secret agents, Russell lives a double life - in his case, as a closet revolutionary. Social enterprise, sustainable business and collaborative practices are his true passions, something that he has had plenty of opportunity to air in his features here at Elite Franchise.
Josh Russell
When he isn't tooling around on trains in a tux like the Daniel Craig of the Greater Anglia transport system, Russell spends his time living the glamourous life of an enterprise journalist, judging Digital Business of the Year at the National Business Awards and attending conferences like NixonMcInnes' Meaning 2013. However, like all good secret agents, Russell lives a double life - in his case, as a closet revolutionary. Social enterprise, sustainable business and collaborative practices are his true passions, something that he has had plenty of opportunity to air in his features here at Elite Franchise.
