Motorhome trade is going into overdrive

An article from The Lincolnshire Echo, September 12, 2007 Wednesday

Motorhome trade is going into overdrive

Leisure businesses have gone into overdrive on the back of motorhome mania and the booming caravan and camping market.

People’s passion for hitting the road with their "home on wheels", topped off by demand for replacement vans following this year’s floods, have made for great sales.

Today firms echoed Barclays’ findings, that more than seven per cent of the adult population love caravanning and camping.

And younger couples, empty-nesters and later-life adventurers have boosted the traditional family and retiree market.

Lincoln Motorhome Hire, based in St Catherine’s, was started 15 months ago. But already, owner Stephen Holloway, who has three vehicles, is planning expansion.

Camper UK Ltd, in North Hykeham, started out offering servicing, but quickly expanded into sales.

And Torksey Caravans reports doing good business, particularly on the touring caravan front.

Mr Holloway said: "Motorhome sales have been rising rapidly, but I believe it is more cost-effective to hire one. We are planning to double our business to six vehicles next year and want to promote our website abroad, by having a German version done. The beauty of the motorhome is that you just turn the key and go, particularly suiting tourists visiting the UK."

Increasing affluence and a growing trend in people switching from caravans to motorhomes, is helping the market.

Camper UK Ltd, of North Hykeham, has been going for three-and- a-half years. It won a Lincolnshire & Rutland Business Award within four months of starting.

After-sales director Dean Hyde said: "We set up because we spotted a big gap in the market to provide after sales repairs and servicing for motorhomes and caravans. Then two years ago we were approached by two German manufacturers, Burstner and Geist, to maintain their vehicles in the UK. We have since gone on to sell both’s ranges.

"The way in which we have expanded to employ about 20 people reflects the popularity of caravans and motorhomes."

Torksey Caravans managing director Andrew Carrington said: "Our year ends in November and we are on course for a rise in sales over last year."

Barclays business manager for East Lincolnshire Sam Allen said: "Many people now take their caravans, campervans and camping equipment abroad, travelling all over Europe and beyond."