Bluebell Coppice, a family-owned campsite near the historic site of the Battle of Hastings, has expanded into the wedding industry following a £1.6 million commercial mortgage refinance from HSBC UK.
The savings from the refinanced deal has enabled Bluebell Coppice, which boasts a site spanning 14 acres of woodland, to open a 678 sq ft barn for weddings and events, and the owners are now in the process of refurbishing an existing lodge to be used as an indoor venue, which is due for completion in April.
The launch of the new events business is expected to boost Bluebell Coppice’s off-season revenue, with the park set to host up to 27 weddings annually, offering exclusive use of the glamping site to couples during off-peak weekends. As a result, revenues are anticipated to increase by £90,000 this year and £200,000 next year.
By lengthening its operational season, Bluebell Coppice will provide extended employment for wardens and cleaners. The site is also recruiting a marketer and administrator for its new events business and has ambitions to launch an on-site shop and café.
Julie Warren, owner of Bluebell Coppice, said: “After purchasing Bluebell Coppice in 2019, we were forced to close in 2020 due to Covid, so we didn’t have the trading figures we needed to show profitability. As a result, we had to move from our original bank to a loan provider with high interest rates.
“Switching to HSBC UK has been a game changer. Cutting down our mortgage costs has been a big relief, but more than that, it has given us a chance to grow our business in a way we didn’t think possible before. Now we’re hosting weddings and events, which is something we’ve always wanted to do.”
Dave Green, relationship manager for Business Banking South East at HSBC UK, added: “We see great potential in the growth plan for Bluebell Coppice and are delighted to have been able to support it through this mortgage refinance.
“The global glamping market size has been projected to grow annually by 8.7% until 2030, and by branching into the wedding and events sector, the business will be able to boost its profits and take on new staff from the local area.”
