Timeshare 'must clean up its act'

8:21am Friday 21st November 2003

THE timeshare industry needs to clean up its act and present a more positive image, according to Fredericka Johns, sales and marketing director at Langdale Leisure.

Referring to the findings of a study into the community benefits of timeshare, Mrs Johns called for greater awareness of the positive impact of this tourism industry sector.

Research by Ragatz Associates showed that significant economic and community benefits were generated through timeshare holidays taken in Europe last year, with the average timeshare travel party spending £1,000 in the local community during their stay.

“Timeshare is often seen as a dirty word, with high-profile fraud cases taking their toll on the industry,” said Mrs Johns.

“There’s been plenty of coverage in the media over the summer warning consumers to beware of bad practice. It’s about time we shouted about the advantages, such as the community benefits and corporate social responsibility afforded by timeshare resorts” Langdale Leisure, which employs 100 staff, offers timeshare accommodation alongside its hotel and country club facility.

It is committed to sustaining the local area and was the first company in the North West to achieve Business in the Community’s prestigious Community Mark earlier this year.

The award recognised a number of initiatives, including a policy of buying local produce; establishing a joint marketing and promotion venture for the valley’s businesses post foot-and-mouth; and a donation scheme by Langdale timeshare owners that helps to fund a full-time footpath repairman.

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