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Welcome back to the Glampitect blog! This week, we’re diving into an inspiring story that showcases how dreams can turn into reality when passion, perseverance, and the right partnerships come together. Our featured guest, Sirus Keane, shares their remarkable journey from the corporate world to the booming glamping industry.
Sirus’s story is one of transformation, calculated risk, and ultimately, success. Let’s explore how Sirus and Gayle transitioned from boardrooms to partnering with AvantGlamp and building one of the most prominent glamping sites in the UK, all with the support of Glampitect.
Sirus Keane’s journey into glamping began in a place familiar to many: the corporate world. For almost 20 years, Sirus worked in international healthcare, navigating the complexities of cross-border healthcare programs. His wife, Gayle, held a prominent position as the Head of UK for a major corporation. However, despite their successful careers, they both felt the pull towards something different, something that would bring them closer to nature and allow them to pursue a more fulfilling and adventurous life.
The tipping point came during their honeymoon, a moment when the future seemed open to new possibilities. Sirus recalls a pivotal conversation with Gayle, who revealed her long-standing dream of entering the hospitality industry, a desire she had never voiced before. This revelation sparked a journey that would see them leave behind their corporate lives to embark on a new adventure together.
As they began to explore their options, Sirus and Gayle considered various hospitality ventures, from running a hotel to buying a bar. However, glamping, initially a wildcard idea, soon captured their imagination. Sirus delved into research and was struck by the potential of the glamping industry. Despite the common belief that the UK market was saturated, Sirus saw a different picture, one of growth, innovation, and an unsaturated market ripe for opportunity.
With a vision in mind, the couple turned to Glampitect. It all started with Glampitect’s feasibility study, which offered a clear view of the financial potential of a glamping site. Sirus vividly remembers the moment he realized the numbers were not only feasible but promising. This was the turning point that convinced him and Gayle to dive headfirst into the glamping business.
Committing to their new venture meant making significant life changes. In 2022, Sirus and Gayle made the bold decision to sell their home, a move that symbolized their commitment to their dream. They put all their assets on the table, choosing to rent while they pursued their glamping ambitions. This was more than just a business decision; it was a lifestyle choice that reflected their desire for one last grand adventure.
Their first major challenge came when they submitted a tender for a large campsite in Aberfoyle, Scotland. Although they didn’t win the tender, the experience only strengthened their determination. The couple took a break over the Christmas period, reassessing their plans and preparing for the next opportunity.
As 2023 began, Sirus and Gayle received an email from Calum MacLeod, founder of Glampitect, introducing them to a unique investment opportunity, AvantGlamp at NEC. On paper, the idea of building a 59 unit glamping site at the NEC, the UK’s largest event space, might seem counterintuitive. However, the vision behind this project was groundbreaking: to create an eco-resort with glamping pods nestled within a 3-4 acre woodland right in the heart of the NEC.
This ambitious project resonated with Sirus and Gayle, who saw it as a chance to be part of something truly innovative. After several discussions with Calum, they felt confident in the opportunity and decided to invest. This decision marked the beginning of their partnership with Calum and AvantGlamp.
Following their investment in AvantGlamp, Sirus and Gayle, became deeply involved in the AvantGlamp project at the NEC. Their engagement went beyond mere financial support; they took on active roles, contributing their skills and expertise to ensure the project's success. This hands-on involvement marked a new chapter in their journey, as they joined forces with Calum, the founder of Glampitect and AvantGlamp, to drive the initiative forward.
This diverse expertise allowed the team to tackle challenges from multiple angles. Calum's experience in creating glamping sites was complimented by Sirus's strategic planning and Gayle's focus on creating exceptional guest experiences. Their collaboration led to innovative solutions and a cohesive approach that addressed every aspect of the AvantGlamp project.
The project required careful consideration of various environmental factors, particularly the concept of Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG).
BNG is a crucial aspect of modern development projects, requiring that any new development not only preserves but enhances the ecological value of the site. For the NEC glamping site, this meant creating a detailed tree management plan, enhancing the existing woodland, and ensuring that the site’s biodiversity was improved through additional landscaping and ecological preservation efforts.
Sirus emphasizes the importance of working with experts like Glampitect and ecological consultants to navigate these challenges. The process can be complex and costly if not handled correctly, making it essential to get the right advice from the outset. For Sirus and Gayle, this approach was key to overcoming obstacles and moving their project forward.
As Sirus and Gayle and the rest of the AvantGlamp team continue to develop their 59 unit glamping site at the NEC, they are optimistic about what lies ahead. The project is ambitious, but with their determination, they are confident it will become one of the most prominent and innovative glamping sites in the UK.
Sirus’s advice to others contemplating a similar journey is straightforward: “If we can do it, anyone can.” Whether you’re already immersed in the glamping industry or just beginning to explore its possibilities, now is a great time to pursue your dreams. With the right support, a clear vision, and a readiness to embrace risks, the sky’s the limit.
Sirus and Gayle’s journey from corporate boardrooms to glamping entrepreneurs is an inspiring example of what can be achieved with passion, determination, and the right partnerships. Their story is a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
At Glampitect, we’re proud to have been part of their journey and look forward to continuing to support them as they bring their visions to life. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your glamping business to the next level, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Stay tuned for more updates on AvantGlamp at the NEC and other exciting projects in the world of glamping. And if you’re inspired by Sirus and Gayle’s story, why not take the first step towards your own glamping adventure and book a call using the link below?
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