Holiday firm expands with a new home on the Gower

A HOLIDAY cottage company is expanding after buying another local firm.

Mumbles-based Home From Home, the largest holiday cottage company in the Swansea Bay region, has bought Gower Getaways, a smaller concern that was set up six years ago.

The acquisition has added 60 properties to its existing portfolio of 260 privately owned holiday lets in coastal, rural and urban locations across Mumbles, Gower, Swansea Marina and Llanelli.

Owner and managing director Matthew Bound said: “We’ve spent the last 11 years developing the very best in self-catering holidays and with demand rising, this was the right time to acquire Gower Getaways.”

Home From Home was originally set up in 1972, with Mr Bound and his wife Clare taking over from the previous owners in 2006. It has grown considerably in recent years and now employs a team of 12.

The growth has created opportunities for cleaning and maintenance services, as well as concierge, cooking and babysitting.

“The opportunities for growth across the tourism sector look very positive,” said Mr Bound.

“There was a 12% rise in the number of overseas visitors coming to Wales in the first nine months of 2016, which was a huge boost to the local economy. And with the value of the pound low, it costs more than ever to travel overseas, so it is likely that the UK ‘staycation’ will remain a popular option for Brits.

“We are lucky that year on year, Gower’s beaches win more and more awards, helping to increase visitor numbers and so the area has developed a real buzz.

“Now, though, the peninsular isn’t just about great beaches. Holidaymakers tell us how much they love visiting historic sites, plus a growing number of attractions that are great for all the family.”