Caravan Insurance

One of Britain's most established caravan firms is continuing to enjoy improving fortunes, according to a league table of privately owned companies.

A full 50 years after it first began operation, Barrons managed to attain 49th position in Lloyds TSB and Real Business magazine's Hot 100 - something the firm puts down to the continuing popularity of caravanning in the face of more exotic holiday options.

Company founder Dave Barron began by selling caravans from his Blackpool back garden in the 50s before moving the company to Wigan in 1967 and Barrons now has seven branches in the UK, as well as an additional one in New Zealand.

Firm owner David Hold commented: "Barrons has developed from modest beginnings to a thriving national and international business but its heart is still firmly with its Lancashire roots.

"During the last half century the car, low cost airlines, package holidays abroad, the internet, have all transformed how people spend their leisure time but we have managed to adapt to the changing environment."

Indeed, Barron's has managed to thrive, with sales rising from £12.9 million to £86.7 million in the past four years alone, which as the firm claims is indicative of the continuing and growing popularity enjoyed by caravanning in Britain today.

The company has as many as 1,500 caravans on its forecourts at all times and also sells holiday homes, folding campers, tents and other outdoor holiday accessories.