Offer finance for horse riding lessons

Introduction

Horse riding is a popular and rewarding activity enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether for leisure, sport, or even therapy, horse riding lessons provide invaluable skills, fitness benefits, and emotional well-being. However, the costs associated with these lessons can often be a significant barrier for many individuals. Offering finance for horse riding lessons can be a game-changer, making this exciting and enriching hobby more accessible to a wider audience.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of making horse riding lessons more affordable, the benefits of offering finance options, and how Kandoo, a leading UK retail finance broker, can help equestrian schools and riding centres offer flexible payment solutions to their clients.

Why Horse Riding Lessons Can Be Expensive

Horse riding is a specialised activity that involves significant costs, which are often passed on to the student. Here are some of the main factors that contribute to the high price of horse riding lessons:

1. Upkeep of Horses

Horses are expensive animals to maintain. They require regular feeding, grooming, veterinary care, and housing. These costs can add up quickly, and many equestrian schools have to factor this into the price of their lessons.

2. Professional Instruction

Riding instructors are highly skilled professionals who have spent years mastering their craft. Their time and expertise come at a cost, especially when lessons are conducted in small groups or one-on-one sessions.

3. Specialised Equipment

Horse riding requires a range of equipment, including saddles, bridles, riding boots, helmets, and other safety gear. Schools often have to invest in high-quality, well-maintained equipment, which adds to their operating costs.

4. Facilities and Insurance

Equestrian centres need proper facilities, including stables, paddocks, and arenas, to provide a safe and comfortable environment for both horses and riders. Additionally, insurance costs can be quite high due to the inherent risks associated with horse riding.

Given these factors, it’s easy to see why horse riding lessons can be costly. For many individuals, especially those who want to take regular lessons, the price can be prohibitive. This is where offering finance options becomes essential.

The Benefits of Offering Finance for Horse Riding Lessons

By offering finance options, equestrian schools and riding centres can help make lessons more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. Here are some of the key benefits of offering finance for horse riding lessons:

1. Increased Accessibility

One of the most significant advantages of offering finance is that it allows more people to participate in horse riding. By breaking down the cost of lessons into manageable monthly payments, students can enjoy the benefits of riding without having to pay the full amount upfront.

This is particularly beneficial for families with children who want to take lessons, as well as individuals who may be on a tight budget but are passionate about learning to ride. Finance options open the door to a wider range of students, helping equestrian centres grow their customer base.

2. Higher Client Retention

Students who have the option to spread out the cost of their lessons are more likely to commit to long-term riding plans. Rather than taking a few lessons and stopping due to financial constraints, clients who use finance options are able to continue their lessons over a longer period of time.

This results in higher retention rates for riding centres, as students are less likely to drop out when they can manage their payments more easily. Long-term clients also tend to become more invested in their riding progress, which can lead to a more engaged and loyal customer base.

3. Increased Revenue for Riding Centres

Offering finance can help equestrian schools and riding centres increase their overall revenue. When clients are able to finance their lessons, they may be more inclined to book larger lesson packages or upgrade to more advanced classes.

Additionally, finance options can help riding centres attract new clients who may have previously been deterred by the upfront cost of lessons. With a broader customer base and more students committing to long-term lessons, riding centres can enjoy a steady stream of income.

4. Competitive Advantage

In a competitive market, offering finance options can set a riding centre apart from others in the area. Many equestrian schools may not provide flexible payment solutions, so offering finance can be a key selling point that attracts new students.

By providing affordable and accessible lesson packages, riding centres can position themselves as more customer-friendly, which can lead to positive word-of-mouth referrals and increased enrolment.

5. Flexibility for Students

Financing lessons gives students the flexibility to choose a payment plan that works for their budget. Whether they want to spread payments over several months or a longer period, finance options allow them to enjoy the benefits of horse riding without feeling financially strained.

This flexibility can make the overall experience more enjoyable for students, as they can focus on their riding progress rather than worrying about the financial aspect.

How Kandoo Can Help Riding Centres Offer Finance

Kandoo is a UK-based retail finance broker that helps businesses offer flexible finance solutions to their customers. By partnering with Kandoo, equestrian schools and riding centres can provide their clients with convenient payment options that make horse riding lessons more affordable.

1. Simple and Transparent Process

Kandoo makes the process of offering finance simple and transparent. Riding centres can easily integrate Kandoo’s finance options into their payment systems, allowing clients to apply for financing online or in person.

Kandoo works with a panel of trusted lenders, so clients can choose from a range of finance options that suit their needs. The application process is straightforward, and clients receive a decision quickly, making it easy for them to start their lessons without delay.

2. No Hidden Fees

One of the standout features of Kandoo is that there are no hidden fees or surprises. The finance terms are clearly outlined from the start, so clients know exactly what they’re signing up for. This level of transparency helps build trust between the riding centre and its clients, ensuring a positive experience for everyone involved.

3. Flexible Payment Terms

Kandoo offers a variety of payment terms to suit different budgets. Clients can choose to spread their payments over several months or longer, depending on what works best for them. This flexibility makes horse riding lessons more accessible to a wider range of people, including those who may not have been able to afford lessons upfront.

4. Support for Equestrian Schools

Kandoo provides support to equestrian schools and riding centres throughout the finance process. From setting up the finance options to helping clients navigate the application process, Kandoo’s team is there to ensure everything runs smoothly.

By partnering with Kandoo, riding centres can focus on providing high-quality lessons while leaving the financial logistics to the experts. This allows schools to offer a seamless and professional service to their clients, enhancing their reputation and customer satisfaction.

5. Boosting Client Confidence

Offering finance through a reputable broker like Kandoo can give clients peace of mind. Kandoo is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring that all finance options are compliant with UK regulations. This level of security helps clients feel confident in their decision to finance their lessons, knowing that they are working with a trustworthy and regulated provider.

How to Implement Finance Options at Your Riding Centre

If you’re an equestrian school or riding centre looking to offer finance options, here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Partner with a Trusted Finance Broker

The first step is to partner with a reputable finance broker like Kandoo. They will help you set up the necessary systems and guide you through the process of offering finance to your clients.

2. Promote Finance Options to Clients

Once you have finance options in place, it’s essential to let your clients know about them. You can promote the availability of finance on your website, social media channels, and in your marketing materials. Make sure to explain the benefits of financing lessons, such as spreading the cost over time and avoiding upfront payments.

3. Offer Flexible Lesson Packages

Consider offering a variety of lesson packages that cater to different budgets and skill levels. By providing options such as beginner, intermediate, and advanced packages, you can appeal to a wider range of students. With finance options available, clients may be more inclined to choose larger packages or commit to long-term lessons.

4. Provide Excellent Customer Service

When offering finance, it’s crucial to provide excellent customer service throughout the process. Ensure that your staff are knowledgeable about the finance options available and can answer any questions that clients may have. A smooth and professional experience will help build trust and encourage clients to take advantage of the finance options.

Conclusion

Horse riding is a rewarding and fulfilling activity, but the costs associated with lessons can be a barrier for many potential students. By offering finance options, equestrian schools and riding centres can make lessons more affordable and accessible to a broader audience. This not only benefits students but also helps riding centres grow their customer base and increase revenue.

Kandoo, a trusted UK retail finance broker, can help riding centres offer flexible finance solutions to their clients. With Kandoo’s support, equestrian schools can provide a seamless and transparent finance process, making it easier for students to start their riding journey without financial stress.

Offering finance for horse riding lessons is a win-win solution that benefits both students and riding centres alike. With the right finance partner, such as Kandoo, you can make horse riding more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.