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For UK riding schools, reliable transportation for horses is essential. Gable Business Finance are equine finance experts, specialising in helping riding schools acquire the right horseboxes through tailored finance solutions. Whether you need a compact 3.5-tonne horsebox or a larger 7.5-tonne model, Gable Business Finance can guide you in choosing and financing the vehicle that best meets your operational needs.
The most common horseboxes acquired by UK riding schools are typically either 3.5-tonne or 7.5-tonne motorised horseboxes. The specific brand and model often depend on the school’s requirements, including the number and size of horses to be transported and driver license capabilities.
Riding schools consider several practical factors when choosing a horsebox:
Gable Business Finance provides expert horsebox finance solutions for riding schools, offering tailored packages that meet both budget and operational requirements. We guide schools in selecting the right type of horsebox and structure the finance to suit cash flow and growth plans.
The Riding School required a 3.5-tonne horsebox to transport two ponies for lessons and competitions. Gable Business Finance arranged a hire purchase agreement, enabling the school to acquire a Bloomfields model without impacting cash flow. The horsebox is now used daily and has increased the school’s operational efficiency.
The business needed a 7.5-tonne horsebox with living accommodation for extended shows. Gable provided a tailored finance package that allowed them to acquire a coach-built Oakley horsebox, enabling safe transport for three horses and overnight stays for staff. This investment helped the centre expand its competition presence significantly.
3.5-tonne horseboxes are ideal for small to medium-sized operations, while 7.5-tonne horseboxes suit larger schools or those needing living accommodation during events. Choice depends on the number of horses, license requirements, and operational needs.
Yes, Gable Business Finance can structure finance for both new and used horseboxes, helping schools manage cash flow while acquiring essential equipment.
Depending on the finance structure, leasing or hire purchase agreements can offer tax-efficient ways to acquire a horsebox, potentially allowing schools to reclaim VAT and spread costs over time.
Gable Business Finance works quickly to provide tailored finance solutions, often arranging approvals within a few days to ensure minimal disruption to your operations.
Absolutely. Our equine finance experts consider your operational requirements, driver licenses, payload needs, and safety considerations to help you select the most suitable horsebox for your school.
The UK horse riding school sector is experiencing a decline in numbers due to factors like staff shortages, high costs, and a lack of suitable horses. However, despite these challenges, the sector shows signs of resilience and future potential, with many centres reporting high demand and interest in expanding, often through diversification into areas like equine therapy and new services.
The number of riding schools has fallen significantly, with over 250 closing since 2018. Today, approximately 1,497 schools remain in operation, reducing the accessibility of riding, particularly for children and lower-income groups.
Many schools are operating at reduced capacity due to a shortage of trained staff and suitable horses, limiting their ability to meet growing demand.
Increasing running costs, including feed, maintenance, insurance, and staffing, place significant financial pressure on riding schools, threatening their long-term sustainability.
Closures and reduced capacity mean that opportunities to participate in horse riding are becoming less accessible, particularly affecting younger riders and families on lower incomes.
Despite challenges, many riding schools report long waiting lists, with demand often outstripping available capacity. This demonstrates continued interest in equestrian activities across the UK.
A 2024 report highlights that around 57% of riding centres have both the interest and the capacity to grow, suggesting strong potential for sector recovery and development.
To secure their future, many riding schools are diversifying their income streams and services. Common strategies include:
Sector organisations, such as the British Equestrian, are providing essential business guidance and fundraising support. Grants from initiatives like the Together Fund also help schools invest in their operations and explore new opportunities.
The UK horse riding school sector faces significant pressures, but it is also demonstrating adaptability and resilience. By combining traditional riding activities with innovative approaches such as equine therapy and residential holidays, schools are finding ways to remain sustainable and meet continued demand.
In conclusion, while the number of riding schools may have declined, the sector’s capacity for diversification and growth offers optimism for the future of equestrian activities in the UK.