Former employees of Center Parcs have provided insights into their experiences working at the popular holiday destination, revealing challenges such as a ‘toxic’ work environment and ‘unrealistic workloads’.
The well-known forest retreats attract numerous guests yearly with a wide range of activities, a Subtropical Swimming Paradise, and the Aqua Sana Forest Spa at each location. Center Parcs currently operates in five woodland sites in England: Whinfell Forest, Sherwood Forest, Longleat Forest, Elveden Forest, and Woburn Forest.
Since its establishment in the late 1980s, Center Parcs has been a favored choice for families seeking short getaways. The charming wooden lodges within the villages, spread over approximately 400 acres of land, enhance the appeal of the locations, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the enchanting woodland surroundings.
The resort also features various dining options, including the popular Pancake House, shopping venues, and cycle rental facilities. Last year, over two million individuals sought relaxation at Center Parcs, resulting in an impressive 97% occupancy rate throughout the year.
However, behind the scenes, employees have shed light on the challenges of working at one of the busiest resorts in the UK. Reviews on the job site Indeed from 526 past and current employees provide a glimpse into their experiences. While some praised the company, recent reviews highlighted concerns.
In one review titled ‘toxic’, an employee who worked as a food and beverage assistant at Elveden expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of support and management’s focus on profits over staff well-being. Another review from a housekeeper/cleaner in Elveden mentioned facing an ‘unrealistic workload’ and feeling undervalued by management.
Despite mixed reviews, Center Parcs received an overall rating of 3.6 out of 5 on Indeed, based on categories such as work-life balance, pay and benefits, job security, management, and culture. Some employees mentioned positive aspects of working at Center Parcs, such as holiday discounts and wildlife sightings, alongside the challenges they faced.
Responding to the feedback, a spokesperson for Center Parcs emphasized the company’s commitment to the well-being of its employees, highlighting benefits such as premium wages, annual bonuses, and a range of perks for all staff. The company aims to foster diversity and inclusivity through specific training programs and initiatives.
In conclusion, while Center Parcs remains a popular holiday destination, the experiences of its employees shed light on the complexities of working in a fast-paced and demanding environment.