Behind-the-scenes look at Center Parcs employment: Former staff disclose hidden aspects of renowned UK vacation resorts
In the heart of the Netherlands, a four-night break during October half term costs an average of €645.56 (£561.25), according to recent data. This price tag is just a fraction of the investment Center Parcs makes in improving its villages, with tens of millions of pounds being poured into each location.
Center Parcs, a popular holiday destination for over two million visitors each year, offers a range of benefits to its employees. Every colleague receives a Christmas hamper, and discounted breaks, day passes, and health and wellbeing programs are all on the table. In addition, the company pays a premium above the National Living Wage as a minimum and pays the same rate to all colleagues, regardless of age or length of service.
Yet, the experiences of Center Parcs employees have been mixed. Some have praised the company, with a food and beverage team member at Center Parcs giving a five-star review, praising their team as 'extremely kind and collaborative'. Another cleaner described a positive experience, stating there was transport laid on for staff and bikes to get between the lodges.
However, other employees have reported less favourable experiences. Some have worked in hot conditions without air conditioning, such as a food and beverage assistant at the Suffolk park who worked in 30-plus degree heat. Another former employee of Center Parcs Elveden in Suffolk gave a one-star review, claiming they were accused of not cleaning to the company's standards and were made to feel unwanted and defeated.
The managers responsible for the unrealistic workloads and stressful work environments at various Center Parcs locations are generally local site managers or center managers. While specific names or individual managers are not publicly listed, the leadership roles such as branch or site managers (e.g., Filialleiter or Betriebsleiter) are typically accountable within the Center Parcs Germany organizational structure.
Center Parcs is committed to diversity and inclusion, being a Disability Confident Employer and having a DE&I Network, as well as offering specific training programs aimed at increasing diversity and awareness of diverse perspectives.
With more than two million visitors taking a Center Parcs holiday each year and an impressive 97% occupancy rate at its parks, the company continues to grow and evolve. As it prepares to open a sixth park in the Scottish Borders in 2029, many of its employees, who have served the company for more than 10, 20, and even 35 years, will no doubt be looking forward to the future with anticipation.
The most affordable Center Parcs option this half-term, at Whinfell Forest, sees a four-night break come in at £1,499. For those seeking a break in the heart of the countryside, Center Parcs offers a unique combination of natural beauty and employee benefits. Whether your experience is five-star or one-star, it seems that Center Parcs continues to be a destination that sparks a wide range of reactions.
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