BIOGRAPHY
Brian Meaden - A Dedicated Businessman and Companion Rat
Brian Meaden is someone who has spent his life at the heart of the leisure, entertainment, and hospitality industries. Throughout his career, he’s been hands‑on with all kinds of ventures, always driven by a passion for creating extraordinary experiences.
He was a major concessionaire at Butlin’s for over 30 years and, back in the 1970s, established a range of attractions at the Lions of Longleat alongside Lord Bath and Jimmy Chipperfield. This chapter reflects his flair for entertainment and collaboration. Brian also played a key role in the amusements and leisure industry, including time spent with companies like Weststar Holidays and Amusement Trades Exhibitions Ltd, where he was closely involved in bringing people together for trade and fun.
His commitment to his profession went well beyond his own businesses. Brian served as President of BACTA, the British Amusement Catering Trades Association, and later became President of EUROMAT, a pan‑European trade organisation based in Brussels, representing holiday and leisure operators across Europe. Throughout these roles, he was widely respected for his practical leadership style and his deep understanding of the industry.
On a personal level, Brian has always been a devoted family man. Married to Lady Ratling Sonia, they share four daughters, Gail, Deborah, Emma, and Cass, who have all grown up surrounded by their father’s entrepreneurial spirit and generosity. Brian is also a proud Companion Rat of the Grand Order of Water Rats, where his long‑standing support for the entertainment and creative industries is warmly appreciated.
Brian’s story is one of lasting impact: an approachable businessman with a sense of humour, someone who has nurtured companies, supported colleagues and friends, and stayed true to his values every step of the way.
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