Family-run Outdoor World Direct Unveils Yorkshire Showroom Expansion

Ever bought something online that looked amazing in the photos, only for it to turn up and be, well, a bit disappointing? It’s a classic story. Maybe it was a jumper that was a weird colour, or a piece of furniture that was way smaller than expected. Now, imagine that feeling but with a giant family tent you’ve just spent a load of money on. Not ideal. That’s exactly why getting to see big-ticket items in person is still so important, and one family-run retailer in Yorkshire is doubling down on that idea. On the 19th of March 2026, Outdoor World Direct, a name many campers will know, officially revealed a huge showroom expansion, cementing its place as a top destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

Image: David Scotland OWD showroom

Bigger and better in Ossett

Let's talk about size. The family-run business, Outdoor World Direct, wasn't exactly small to begin with. But after their most successful year to date in 2025, they decided it was time to go big. Really big. Their showroom in Ossett has undergone a massive expansion, nearly doubling in size. Imagine a space growing from 8,000 square feet to a whopping 15,000. That’s a lot more room for some serious camping equipment.

This isn't just about cramming more stuff in. The managing director, David Scotland, planned the showroom expansion to completely change the customer experience. The warehouse, where all the online orders are packed up and sent out, is now a totally separate area. What does that mean for visitors? Well, it means the team can focus entirely on helping people in the showroom without being distracted by other jobs. It creates a much more relaxed and focused environment for anyone looking to gear up for their next trip. This expansion makes their Yorkshire base the largest independent camping showroom in the whole of the North.

Why seeing is believing

In a world of one-click buys and next-day delivery, having a massive physical showroom might seem a bit old-school. But David Scotland believes it’s their secret weapon. Buying a set of new tents or large awnings is a big decision, and it’s an investment. You want to know it’s right for your family. A picture can’t tell you if you’ll be able to stand up straight inside or if there’s enough room for the kids and all their gear. This is where the Ossett showroom comes into its own. The expansion allows them to have more of their camping equipment set up and on display, so people can actually walk inside the tents, test the zips, and feel the materials.

As managing director, David Scotland, puts it:

“Although the majority of people shop online, having a showroom where people can view products in-person is actually becoming a USP in its own right. Our online store performs incredibly well and enables us to have a nationwide customer base, but giving people the opportunity to view a family tent before purchasing means they are more likely to find the right one for their needs. Large family tents and awnings are an investment, so many people still want to see, touch and experience the products while also having a knowledgeable person on-hand to ask questions.”

A true family affair

The story of Outdoor World Direct didn't start with this huge expansion. It started nearly two decades ago with David’s father, Eric Scotland. He founded the company back in 1999, building it from the ground up. While Eric is still involved, he's since handed the reins over to his son. But David isn't new to the game. He's been part of the business since he was a teenager, spending his summers working in the warehouse and learning the ropes. He’s worked his way up, which gives him a unique understanding of every part of the operation, from the stockroom to the shop floor. This long history and deep-rooted family connection are what separates this independent retailer from the big, faceless chains.

The secret to sticking around

Running a retail business for almost twenty years is no small feat. This Yorkshire retailer has weathered the storm of online shopping, navigated recessions, and survived a global pandemic. So, what’s the secret? According to David, it’s simple: exceptional customer service. It’s a phrase that gets thrown around a lot, but for this business, it’s the core of everything they do. They've earned an almost perfect 4.9 out of 5 rating on Trust Pilot, which speaks for itself. It's a testament to their commitment to genuine customer service.

In an age where trying to get help often means battling with chatbots or getting stuck in an endless loop of automation, they offer a real, human touch. As a hands-on business owner, David values that connection. He explained,

“Our core value has always been exceptional customer service along with competitive pricing of quality products and I think that’s what’s helped us survive. We offer such a personalised service, I get people calling and chatting about their holidays, families and more. In an age of chatbots and automation, it makes us unique. As a business owner, I love nothing more than chatting to customers and getting to know them and that’s why we have loyal, returning customers.”

This focus on building relationships, combined with competitive pricing, has been their winning formula. After such a successful year, this expansion is the next logical step in providing that fantastic customer experience on an even bigger scale in their new, largest showroom in the North.