Target Information

FURTHER.SPACE is a luxury glamping pod holiday company that partners with local landowners to deliver premium outdoor vacation experiences in Scotland and Ireland. Established in 2019, the company specializes in high-quality, design-led pod accommodations strategically placed at hand-picked locations. By leveraging a direct marketing approach and a sophisticated booking platform, FURTHER.SPACE has successfully positioned itself within the growing eco-tourism sector, appealing to consumers seeking authentic countryside experiences.

The company operates a unique partnership model that empowers independent landowners to diversify their revenue streams and initiate micro-tourism businesses. By collaborating with FURTHER.SPACE, these landowners can benefit from the installation of luxury pods that are expected to contribute an estimated £40,000 annually in tourism spend to the local economy. To date, FURTHER.SPACE has successfully deployed 50 pods across ten sites and plans to significantly expand its presence in Scotland over the next five years.

Industry Overview

In the UK, the tourism industry has faced unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with staycations becoming a more attractive option as international travel remains uncertain. The UK annual tourism market is estimated to be worth £8.25 billion, and within this framework, the glamping sector has experienced remarkable growth, often outpacing the overall market. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences toward sustainable and eco-friendly travel options.

The growing inclination towards staycations dovetails with an increasing awareness of the carbon footprint associated with air travel. As more consumers prioritize sustainability in their travel choices, businesses that provide eco-friendly alternatives, like FURTHER.SPACE, are well-positioned to meet this evolving demand. The glamping experience, which combines outdoor adventure with hotel luxury, resonates with families and travelers eager for unique experiences closer to nature.

FURTHER.SPACE contributes significantly to this trend by offering not only luxury accommodations but also comprehensive support to landowners, which includes marketing, customer service, and on-site training. This holistic approach enhances the overall guest experience while promoting economic development in less-visited rural regions of the UK.

The landscape for glamping in Scotland and Ireland is particularly favorable due to the country's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As more local landowners seek to engage with the tourism market, collaborations with FURTHER.SPACE can increase visibility and access to locations previously overlooked. This creates a win-win scenario, benefiting both the local economy and tourism growth.

Rationale Behind the Deal

Foresight Group's £1.25 million investment into FURTHER.SPACE aims to support the company’s expansion and operational scaling efforts, particularly in Scotland. With the ongoing disruption of international tourism due to COVID-19, the investment aligns with the rising consumer preference for domestic travel and outdoor experiences.

This funding will not only facilitate the deployment of additional luxury pods but will also enhance FURTHER.SPACE's capacity to hire skilled personnel to bolster their business development efforts. The investment supports the company’s ambition to install over 100 additional pods within the next five years, contributing to job creation and tourist attraction in local economies.

Investor Information

Foresight Group is a distinguished infrastructure and private equity investment manager with over 35 years of experience managing funds for institutional and retail clients. With more than £7 billion of assets under management, Foresight focuses on sustainable investment opportunities that have a social and environmental impact.

The Foresight Scottish Growth Fund, which facilitated this investment, is specifically designed to support growing SMEs in Scotland. It provides equity to investment rounds up to £10 million, thereby helping to stimulate economic growth and job creation across various sectors in the region.

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This investment in FURTHER.SPACE presents a compelling case for a strategic and impactful venture. The combination of a well-defined growth strategy and a strong management team positions FURTHER.SPACE for success in a recovering tourism market. As consumers increasingly seek out eco-friendly travel options, the demand for glamping experiences is likely to continue its upward trajectory.

Moreover, FURTHER.SPACE’s innovative model of partnership with local landowners not only enhances the attractiveness of its offerings but also fosters community engagement and economic resilience. This could lead to further investment opportunities and a robust brand reputation in eco-tourism.

Given the scalability of FURTHER.SPACE’s business model, along with the increased focus on outdoor vacations due to lingering uncertainties in international travel, this investment is poised for strong returns. The careful monitoring by Foresight Group further assures its potential for long-term success.

In conclusion, the partnership between Foresight and FURTHER.SPACE is not merely a financial investment; it is a commitment to sustainable tourism development. This approach not only satisfies the current demand but also sets the foundation for future expansions in an evolving travel landscape.

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