Aboutcamp BtoB - issue 45

Editor’s note

These are strange times for the recreational vehicle sector. In Europe, motorhome registration data indicates a healthy market. However, a visit to dealer lots tells a different story; excess stock and supply exceeding demand. Many dealers find themselves in trouble due to overly ambitious purchases driven by the optimism of manufacturers, who continued production without fully considering the actual market dynamics. This is particularly evident in Germany, the primary driving force of the European market, where the situation is starting to concern some observers. Experts suggest the situation will normalise within a year. In the meantime, recreational vehicle manufacturers are slowing production, helping the market to rebalance. Naturally, this adjustment impacts the entire supply chain, as suppliers are also facing a decline in orders. Despite this, the sector remains strong, as evidenced by European trade fairs, which not only attracted significant attendances but also yielded satisfactory orders for industry players. We attended Europe’s four most important fairs by visitor numbers, and on these pages, you’ll find our reports on the most interesting innovations. For those who prefer, you can

Contents

catch up with our video reports from the Paris and Birmingham shows on our website. When it comes to major innovations in accessories and components, don’t miss our video report from the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf. This year, for the first time, we collaborated with Messe Düsseldorf on these videos, and they are available directly on the trade fair’s YouTube channel. Across the Atlantic, the situation remains challenging. However, many industry players believe that the election of the new U.S. president will restore consumer confidence and reignite the market. Still, difficulties are compounded by stringent regulations such as the California Advanced Clean Trucks Act (ACT), which currently limits the sale of motorized recreational vehicles in California due to the lack of electric options from chassis manufacturers. We hope the RVIA can quickly highlight the absurdity of this mandate for our industry. The coming months will be crucial. Some groups, both in Europe and the United States, are struggling more during this period. The recreational vehicle industry must demonstrate its ability to navigate economic, regulatory, and market changes with resilience and innovation. Only in this way can it return to sustainable growth and avoid repeating the mistakes that are currently causing difficulties for many.

Antonio Mazzucchelli

Interviews • 30

Columns

• 38

• 40 Dimatec

• 42 SFC Energy Powering the future of off-grid energy

• 44 H.B. Fuller

• 46 Euramax

next generation of aluminium

• 48 Lippert Windows and doors for the RV sector

Focus

• 98

• 52 Ofolux 50 years of constant growth

• 56 Truma A masterpiece of coolness

• 58 Alde Launches its first diesel heater

• 60 MPK Open. Close. Good.

• 62 Filippi Five continents, one global market

• 64 Lamicolor Exploring emotions

World news

•

Report

• 66 Caravan Salon - Düsseldorf Good business results and an outstanding mood

• 78 Salone del Camper - Parma The fair in Parma surpasses 100,000 visitors

• 84 Salon VDL - Paris Salon des Véhicules de Loisirs: a resounding success

• 92 Motorhome and Caravan Show - Birmingham Highlights from the UK’s biggest show

FIAT starts production of E-Ducato in Italy

FIAT Professional has officially started production of the E-Ducato, the all-electric version of its best-selling Ducato, at its Atessa plant in Italy. This milestone marks a pivotal moment for both the FIAT Professional brand and Stellantis as they advance the shift toward sustainable mobility in the LCV sector. In the RV segment, the Ducato is the leader in Europe with a 5-percentage points market share growth compared to last year, and with 70% of recreational vehicles on the European road being on a Ducato base. Among its achievements, the Ducato has been awarded “Best Camper Base Vehicle of the Year” for 2024 by readers of the German specialty magazine Promobil—an honor it has received for the sixteenth consecutive year.

Building on its legacy, the new E-Ducato offers an electric solution without compromise. Designed entirely in-house, it

features the new 110-kWh second-generation battery, ensuring a best-in-class zero-emission experience with an impressive range of up to 424 km in the WLTP cycle. Blending advanced electric technology with the trusted reliability, performance, and versatility of the Ducato, it represents an eco-friendly solution for commercial vehicle fleets. The E-Ducato features an impressive driving range, rapid charging options, and multiple configurations that make it adaptable to a variety of industries—from logistics to service sectors and beyond. As demand for zero-emission vehicles continues to grow, the E-Ducato positions FIAT Professional as a leader in the transition to electric mobility in the commercial

Editorial

Editor in chief: Antonio Mazzucchelli direttore@aboutcamp.eu

Senior editor: Renato Antonini

Art director: Federico Cavina

Editorial team: Paolo Galvani - Terry Owen

John Rawlings - Enrico Bona - Peter Hirtschulz

Steve Fennell - David Guest - Bartek Radzimski

Irene Viergever - Giovanni Ricciardi

Giorgio Carpi - Andrea Cattaneo

Web team: Maurizio Fontana - Gabriel Lopez

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sector.

The Atessa production facility, established in 1979 as a joint venture between FIAT and PSA-Peugeot Citroën, began operations in 1981 near Chieti, Italy. Spanning over 1.2 million square meters, this iconic plant is the largest and most adaptable light commercial vehicle facility in Europe, with the capacity to produce up to 1,200 vehicles daily.

Aboutcamp BtoB helps professionals in the caravan/RV and leisure industry around the world keep up to date with all the latest business news and market trends in this sector. It’s the most well informed source of B2B information in the caravan industry, with a unique global perspective and an international team of correspondents delivering daily news online at www.AboutcampBtoB.eu, a bi-monthly e-newsletter, and a high quality print magazine delivered (free) in Europe, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan, China, Korea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile. The Aboutcamp BtoB magazine is published four times a year with features including exclusive interviews with senior management from the industry, reviews of the major exhibitions around the world, and reports about the latest market trends, plus in-depth profiles of OEM suppliers who specifically manufacture components for this sector. With all the recent acquisitions, new technological developments and more and more consumers buying leisure vehicles around the world, Aboutcamp BtoB is essential reading for everyone working in any business related to the caravan industry. While so many flock to the internet, and have an inbox full of emails, Aboutcamp BtoB decided to print a paper magazine so that it gets more noticed, read, appreciated and discussed; so, we wish you happy reading!

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Aboutcamp BtoB is also a website updated daily with news and information dedicated to RV builders and OEM producers. The website is supported by a professional newsletter sent monthly to the professionals in the RV sector. We also strengthened our presence on LinkedIn, where we manage the business page of the magazine but also the group “Caravanning Professional” which allows us to develop direct and informal relationships with decision-makers in the RV industry.

On our website is possible to read online the print edition of all Aboutcamp BtoB issues at: www.aboutcampbtob.eu/read-the-magazines

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Trigano: record sales of 3.9 billion Euros for the 2023/24 financial year

The Leisure Vehicles business was marked by further improvements in the supply chain and the end of the shortage of chassis. The normalisation of chassis deliveries by carmakers enabled demand to be met and manufacturer and distribution network inventories to be replenished, in some cases beyond what was necessary. Deliveries of motorhomes rose by

21.7% in value (+18.9% on a like-for-like basis and at constant exchange rates). Sales of other leisure vehicles were affected by a fall in demand. There was a drop in sales of caravans (-32.1%), mobile homes (-13.0%) and accessoriesfor leisure vehicles (-6.0%). The leisure equipment business (-3.6%) was penalized by the poor economic climate in Europe. Sales of trailers held up well, rising by 6.4% in volume and maintaining sales at a level close to that of previous year. This sales growth, combined with tight control over margins and costs, point to a current operating margin ratio at least equal to that achieved in 2022/23 (12.2%). Sales in the fourth quarter of 2023/24 (€ 874.3M) were up 4.6%

compared to previous year. In a European market that continues to grow, sales of motorhomes rose by 13.8% (+9.3% at constant scope and exchange rates. Sales of caravans (-52.9%) were affected by destocking in distribution, particularly in Germany and Nordic countries, while sales of mobile homes (down 42.4%) did not benefit from end-of-season orders in France and Belgium, unlike previous year. Sales of accessories for leisure vehicles were down by 5.4%.

Leisure equipment sales (-4.8%) were affected by the morose economic situation in France and by unfavourable weather conditions at the height of the season. Sales of trailers (-1.4%) held up well, thanks to a slight increase in volumes, but this was not enough to offset negative price mix effects; while sales of other leisure equipment were down 15.9%.

California’s Advanced Clean Trucks regulation could stop RV sales

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has reported that in 2025, California’s Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation, aimed at promoting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), could create a near-total “ban” on motorhome sales in the state, as well as in additional states that follow the California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations.

A news story by the RVIA advices the RV Industry that: “While the regulation does not specifically ban motorhome sales, the ACT regulation mandates manufacturers of medium and

heavy-duty vehicles to sell an increasing percentage of ZEVs each year. This has led chassis manufacturers to halt sales of traditional internal combustion engine chassis for motorhomes in California, stemming from the lack of ZEV chassis suitable for motorhomes.”

The RV Industry Association is continuing to work with CARB staff on the ACT to find a solution, but if nothing changes, motorhomes will not be able to be sold and registered in California in 2025, although the exact date is still to be determined.

Record sales for Erwin Hymer Group of $3.36 billion in 2023/24 year

In the 2023/24 fiscal year, the Erwin Hymer Group (EHG) achieved record sales of $3.36 billion – the highest turnover in its history – while its parent company, Thor Industries, the world’s leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles, achieved a turnover of $10.04 billion in the same period. Thor Industries has just over 22,000 employees and sold 186,908 vehicles, while EHG, as a European subsidiary with close to 8,900 employees, sold 55,317 vehicles sold, contributed $3.36 billion to the total turnover. The company thus achieved the highest turnover in its history and exceeded expectations. EHG also increased its market share of new registrations in Europe by adding 3.5% of mar-

ket share in the first half of 2024. With a total market share of 23.6%, EHG says it is the leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles in Europe and is ranked first in several categories:

• #1 in Europe: total recreational vehicles

• #1 in Europe: motorized recreational vehicles

• #1 in Europe: camper vans

• #1 in Europe: urban campers (manufacturers of recreational vehicles without automotive OEMs)

Quote Alexander Leopold, CEO Erwin Hymer Group: “Our figures demonstrate the attractiveness of our brands and the high demand for our products. In a challenging market environment, we’ve

succeeded in achieving our ambitious growth targets and significantly increasing our operating profitability. This gives us the tailwind we need to implement our strategic goals in the areas of sustainability, innovation and digitalization.”

Knaus Tabbert revenue and earnings in third quarter impacted by initiatives to support dealer network

Knaus Tabbert’s third quarter was characterized by initiatives aimed to support its dealers, some of which have been facing challenges of financing their inventories due to increased financing costs. Supporting the dealer network led to a burden on revenue and earnings for the company in the past quarter. In the nine-month period, Knaus Tabbert recorded consolidated revenue of EUR 897.2 million after EUR 1,073.5 million in the same period of the previous year (-16.4%).

The catalogue of measures for dealers included an intentional slowdown in supply from the factories

As stated in the group’s press release on November 13, 2024: the Management Board of KNAUS TABBERT AG decided to stop production at the sites in Jandelsbrunn and Nagyoroszi, Hungary, from 18 November 2024 until the end of the year. The objective is to reduce production volumes to bring inventories at dealer level to

and marketing campaigns to further accelerate already healthy sales. Overall, demand in the German market for leisure vehicles remained high in the quarter under review and group’s initiatives have been delivering positive results. Alongside market-focused initiatives, the Management Board of Knaus Tabbert AG continued with corresponding operational measures in the third quarter. These led to a reduction of 1.3 percentage points in the cost of materials ratio in relation to total output, which was mainly achieved by increasing the proportion of in-house production and reducing the number of temporary workers.

However, the savings were not able to

an economically sustainable level and to reduce own inventories.

fully compensate for the negative economies of scale resulting from the largely self-induced decline in sales in the first nine months. As a result, adjusted EBITDA fell by 45.4% in the nine-month period from EUR 88.6 million in the previous year to EUR 42.9 million, resulting in an adjusted EBITDA margin of 5.4% in the reporting period.

The order backlog amounted to EUR 577 million as at 30 September 2024 and thus remained at a solid level.

This further indicates that the measures taken to support dealers have taken effect and have led to a gradual normalization of the order level.

Knaus Tabbert AG announces key leadership changes as part of its strategic plan to secure a sustainable and profitable future. Wim de Pundert, a significant shareholder and current member of the supervisory board, has been appointed as the new CEO and CFO, effective immediately, following the resignation of Wolfgang Speck.

Latest News from Knaus Tabbert AG - November 28, 2024

At the time of going to press with this edition, we received the following press release, which we are publishing in its entirety, providing further details on the ongoing investigations by authorities regarding potential administrative misconduct:

“Jandelsbrunn, Germany – November 28, 2024 – Knaus Tabbert AG wishes to provide further details on the investigation by the public prosecutor and updates regarding the most recent decision by the Supervisory Board.

The Supervisory Board has been informed that two individuals within the company are currently subject to the ongoing investigation. As a result, the Supervisory Board has decided to terminate the contracts of Chief Operating Officer Werner Vaterl and Chief Sales Officer Gerd Adamietzki with immediate effect. Their direct reports will temporarily assume their operating responsibilities.

Regarding the investigation Knaus Tabbert is fully cooperating with the authorities. It is essential to emphasize that the company itself is currently not accused of any wrongdoing and is instead an injured party that has incurred damages. The extent of these damages remains under

evaluation. We ask for your understanding that we are unable to provide any further information at early stage of the investigation.

This decision comes during a period of significant transformation. Recently, Wim de Pundert has taken on the dual role of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, marking a change of direction in the company’s journey.

In alignment with these changes, we have already initiated efforts to further strengthen our leadership team. This unexpected event will accelerate these efforts.

We have initiated an internal review to identify any underlying causes that may have contributed to this situation. We are committed to implementing additional measures to prevent similar issues in the future, including the enhancement of internal processes and controls.

While this development is undoubtedly a challenge, it reaffirms our commitment to driving meaningful change within Knaus Tabbert and advancing the company’s strategic goals. We remain dedicated to shaping a robust and resilient organization, equipped to deliver on its vision for the future.”

New seventh generation Volkswagen Transporter

The completely redesigned Volkswagen Transporter has made its world premiere at the IAA Transportation 2024 show in Hannover. The seventh generation of the new Transporter (and Caravelle) offer more space, more payload, more maximum trailer weight and efficient turbodiesel engines with front-wheel and all-wheel drive, plus plug-in hybrids and electric drives.

In addition, state-of-the-art assist systems ensure greater safety; wellthought-out cockpit and control elements make everyday work easier. The same applies to the Caravelle presented at the same time – the product line’s nine-seater Volkswagen bus.

When the first Transporter was presented to the press in 1949, nobody had imagined that this T1, the driving force behind the German economic miracle at the time, would become such a successful model family. And

now 75 years later, the Bulli has long been a permanent fixture of international automotive heritage. The 2024 Bulli range consists of the new Transporter, the Multivan and the ID. Buzz. The Transporter product line comprises pure commercial vehicles and the Caravelle series. The Multivan is the family’s recreational and business van and has also just launched as a redesigned California camper van. The ID. Buzz and the ID. Buzz Cargo commercial vehicle version are the first electric mobility icons. Transporter, Multivan and ID. Buzz – the 7th generation Bullis –currently form the widest range of models in their class on the market. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers the new Transporter as a panel van (focused on goods

transport), a panel van “Plus” (load compartment, seats in the second row, various partitions), crewbus (focused on passenger transport) and as a double cab with platform body and long wheelbase. The crewbus and panel van versions are optionally available with a high roof and an extended wheelbase. Both the Transporter as a panel van and the Caravelle are also available in the PanAmericana all-terrain version.

Lippert reports strong operating performance and cash flow generation in third quarter

LCI Industries (Lippert) has reported a strong operating performance and cash flow generation in a challenging environment in its third quarter 2024 results. “Despite a challenging RV and Marine industry backdrop, we delivered a strong quarter with continued market share expansion, increased operating margins, and robust operating cash flow which has reached $402 million over the last twelve months. Share gains were particularly strong across appliances, awnings, chassis, furniture, and windows, which together represent more

excellence, including product quality and supply chain improvement initiatives, drove further margin expansion. Looking ahead, we believe we’re positioned to outperform as demand rebounds, powered by our cutting-edge innovation and a prioritization of strategic M&A to further enhance our diversification and long-term growth potential.”

than 70% of our total North American RV OEM business. These gains were fueled by innovative products like the new line of CURT towing and suspension products we showcased at the September Open House,” commented Jason Lippert, LCI Industries’ President and Chief Executive Officer.

“As a result, our key customers have maintained and increased the amount of Lippert content across their 2025 RV models. At the same time, we believe our commitment to operational

Third Quarter 2024 Results: consolidated net sales for the third quarter of 2024 were $915.5 million, a decrease of 5% from 2023 third quarter net sales of $959.3 million. Net income in the third quarter of 2024 was $35.6 million, or $1.39 per diluted share, compared to $25.9 million, or $1.02 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2023. EBITDA in the third quarter of 2024 was $85.2 million, compared to EBITDA of $78.9 million in the third quarter of 2023. The decrease in year-over-year net sales for the third quarter of 2024 was primarily driven by lower sales to North American marine and utility trailer OEMs and declines in wholesale shipments of motorhome RV units, partially offset by increased North American RV wholesale shipments of travel trailers and fifth-wheels and market share gains in the automotive aftermarket.

October 2024 consolidated net sales were approximately $330 million, down 4% from October 2023, primarily due to an approximate 12% decline in marine sales and an approximate 3% decrease in North American RV production compared to October 2023.

Alexander Leopold joins the CIVD board

The CIVD (trade association for the caravan industry in Germany) has appointed Alexander Leopold, CEO of the Erwin Hymer Group as a new member of its board following the resignation of Martin Brandt, also from the Erwin Hymer Group. Alexander Leopold will take over responsibility for the export department and, as an experienced industry expert, brings valuable expertise. The CIVD has expressed its thanks to Martin Brandt for his many years of

working with the association and his commitment to working tirelessly for the concerns of its association members.

Other members of the CIVD board include Bernd Loher from Hobby, Dr. Holger Siebert from Eura Mobil, Werner Vaterl from Knaus Tabbert, Jurgen Vohringer from Vohringer and Bernard Kibler from Dethleffs.

The CIVD has represented the interests of the caravan industry in Germany since 1962.

AL-KO appoints Oliver Drinkwater as Managing Director of E&P Hydraulics

The complete portfolio of hydraulic levelling systems products (HY2, HY4, LevelC, LevelM, LevelM Pro, LevelVan) in the ALKO group of companies worldwide is now the responsibility of Oliver Drinkwater who has been appointed as Managing Director of E&P Hydraulics with the key objectives of expanding the network of OEMs, dealers and end customers, and the expansion and differentiation of the product portfolio. Drinkwater, the former owner of E&P Hydraulics UK, will focus on customer needs by using his expertise to collaborate with his team to provide customers with excellent advice and support.

He says: “Having run my own business for the past twenty years, AL-KO offered me a new and bigger challenge – to help E&P reach its full potential by creating a focused center of excellence for hydraulic levelling systems (HLS), utilizing the world-class resources we have within the wider AL-KO VT Group, channeled in a way to deliver clear innovation, quality and high customer service. I’m extremely excited to be given this opportunity and look forward to the exciting journey we are embarking on together.”

Harald Hiller, President & CEO AL-KO Vehicle Technology, comments: “With this pooling we want to provide dealers and end customers in this business area with an even easier way to find the right products with the right features.”

Stellantis Pro One inaugurates global commercial vehicles hub

Stellantis Pro One has inaugurated its new global commercial vehicles hub at the Mirafiori Automotive Park 2030 in Turin, Italy. The hub brings together all functions that align the strategy and guidelines of the business unit to increase efficiency and speed in decision-making. The new hub, made of more than 80 experts, will integrate multiple cross-brand functions including engineering, marketing, product development, sales, logistics, communication, finance, human resources, purchasing, recreational vehicles, manufacturing and other customer-focused activities. Also, it will act as a “steering center” for all employees involved in the global commercial vehicle business. These teams will coordinate with competence centers and production facilities worldwide, supporting Stellantis Pro One’s mission to strengthen its global leadership in commer-

cial vehicles.

“The Stellantis Pro One global commercial vehicles hub is all about taking the best of our dedicated teams, based across our regions, to achieve our ambition on a very profitable segment that represents one-third of our revenues,” said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares. “The decision to set this hub in Mirafiori is another testament to our deep commitment to Italy.”

In the first half of 2024, Stellantis Pro One secured the top position in three regions: Europe 30, South America, and the Middle East & Africa. These results highlight Stellantis Pro One’s strong global market presence with

six brands, which will enable the achievement of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategic plan with the commercial vehicles business accounting for one-third of Stellantis Net revenues, plus delivering €5 billion in connected services revenue as a 360-degree preferred business partner.

Fit Your Camper - act two: don’t miss the two b2b days...

The first edition of Fit Your Camper exceeded expectations, with 12,623 visitors and 484 industry professionals, confirming its strategic role in the Italian trade fair scene. The camper community’s support was crucial, with nearly a thousand motorhome hosted. Preparations for the 2025 edition are already underway. After its successful debut, Fit Your Camper – The Accessory Trade Fair for Motorhome, Caravans, Vans, and Leisure will return from April 3 to 6, 2025, at Lariofiere in Erba (CO). The event will feature an expanded offering, showcasing leading European companies in camper and caravan accessories, alongside related sectors. Major brands will present innovations and provide expert advice, catering to both professionals and enthusiasts. Professionals

will have exclusive networking and training opportunities during the first 2 days (April 3 and 4). From April 4 afternoon through the weekend, the fair will welcome the general public (B2C), offering workshops, events, and a broader range of exhibitors than the previous edition. Entry remains free in 2025. Visitors arriving by motorhome can use free park-and-ride facilities with shuttle service, or opt for on-site parking at €5 per day. This year’s event will enhance its public activities, including cooking shows, seminars, and workshops on innovation and safety for life on the road. A free dog park will be available for pet owners. Saturday night’s Fit Your Party will celebrate the camper community with music, dining, and shared experiences. Professionals can also enjoy Fit Your Party PRO, an exclusive networking evening, while the Meet & Match program will facilitate connections between companies and content creators.

The Camper Professional Award will return to recognize excellence in the industry. With its expanded format and tailored offerings, the second edition of Fit Your Camper promises to be a must-attend event for outdoor tourism enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Paolo Moiola appointed Head of Sales at Truma Vehicle Electronics

At the Salone del Camper in Parma, Markus Heringer, Managing Director Commercial at Truma Geraetetechnik GmbH & Co. KG, officially announced the appointment of Paolo Moiola as the new Head of Sales for Truma Vehicle Electronics. This new Business Center was formed following Truma’s acquisition of Arvikon a few months ago, further strengthening the company’s position in the RV electronics sector. Arvikon, headquartered in Madrid, is a trailblazing company that specializes in the design and manufacturing of control systems for recreational vehicles. Within just a few years, Arvikon has rapidly demonstrated its capabilities, offering B2B solutions that are compatible with most vehicles in the market. The company is well-known for its dedication to OEM manufacturers, providing tailored solutions and support, and its seamless integration

with industry standards like the CI-BUS protocol. Since September 16, Paolo Moiola, with decades of experience as Sales Export Manager at CBE and former co-CEO, has joined Truma. As Head of Sales Vehicle Electronics in Eduard Schrall’s team, he will collaborate closely with Jan-Peter Albers at the Business Center Vehicle Electronics, and with Arvikon team in Madrid, to develop new strategies and offerings. Moiola said: “Our focus is to harness all the ideas we already have, with plans already in the making. It will take some time, but our goal is clear: We aim to provide our OEM customers with systems that deliver clear benefits to them while focusing on improving the user experience. I am grateful to Truma for this opportunity and thrilled to be back in the sector after a few years away.”

Corrigendum: Vitrifrigo article on Aboutcamp BtoB 44

The weight of the Vitrifrigo Slim90 compressor refrigerator was mistakenly indicated in the print magazine Aboutcamp BtoB, issue 44, as 13 kg (see page 93, in the text and table). The correct weight of the Vitrifrigo Slim90 is 19.3 kg

Turning project into Reality Revamp your RV interior

New Chief Financial Officer for AL-KO Vehicle Technology

Erich Keilich has been appointed the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group.

Prior to joining AL-KO Vehicle Technology, Erich Keilich, an economics graduate, was CFO of the CPI Gruppe Deutschland in Ulm. His previous career included responsibility for pioneering corporate development projects, process optimization and cost efficiency as CFO of Bauknecht Hausgeräte GmbH. He has also worked in a variety of international finance roles for General Motors.

Harald Hiller, President and CEO of AL-KO Vehicle Technology, commented: “I am delighted that we have gained Erich Keilich as a leader with transformational experience who will enrich our management team. With his wide-ranging experience in finance and his determination to optimize processes and results, he will make a valuable contribution to the further development of our company.”

NCC: new Director of Communications

The National Caravan Council (NCC), the trade body for the UK caravan industry, has appointed Simon McGrath as the new Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement. In this key leadership role, Simon will oversee the development and implementation of the NCC’s strategic communications review and play a crucial role in shaping the organisation’s engagement with a broad range of stakeholders – media, members and the wider industry. Simon is a highly respected communications professional and a familiar face within the leisure vehicle sector of the industry in the UK. As the former Head of Communications and External Relations with the Camping and Caravanning Club, Simon brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the industry, and crucially its consumer base. With a lifelong career in journalism and communications he has a deep passion for promoting the range of benefits and opportunities our industry has to offer in a new and exciting way to dedicated and emerging audiences.

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Winnebago partners with National Park Foundation to enhance access to the outdoors

Winnebago Industries and the Winnebago Industries Foundation is partnering with the National Park Foundation (NPF), the nonprofit partner of the National Park Service to enhance access to the outdoors.

This is all part of Winnebago Industries commitment to advancing outdoor equity and inspiring new generations of outdoor enthusiasts by removing barriers and improving access to outdoor experiences.

The NPF champions programs and initiatives to protect land, sites and places of cultural significance across the U.S., while raising funds to ensure the ongoing safety, beauty and accessibility of national parks for all.

“Together, we actively support historically excluded communities, striving to ensure everyone has equal access to the beauty and benefits offered by national parks”.

“We are proud of our partnership with Winnebago Industries, an iconic, trusted brand that is committed to being a catalyst and bridge connecting individuals from underrepresented communities to the incredible wonder of our national parks,” said Chad Jones, senior vice president of corporate partnerships at the NPF.

RV Industry Association Board elects Thetford’s Mary Pouliot as

its 2025 Chair

The incoming RV Industry Association Board of Directors has elected Mary Pouliot, Thetford’s Executive Vice President, as 2025 Chair of the Board. Mary Pouliot has recently served as RV Industry Association Board of Directors Vice Chair and as Chair of the RV Technical Institute.

“Mary’s dedication to the RV industry and her proven leadership skills make her the ideal person to guide the RV Industry Association into the future. We are thrilled to have her as our new Chair,” said RV Industry Association President & CEO Craig Kirby, “We also want to thank Kevin McArt for his incredible leadership over the past two years as Chair of the Board.”

Executive Committee officers were also elected to their posts by the incoming Board of Directors, including Vice Chair Ryan Elias of Leisure Travel Vans/ Triple E RV and Treasurer Brett Randall of Aliner. Jeff Rodino of Patrick Industries was newly elected to the Executive Committee in the role of Secretary. Current Chair Kevin McArt will continue to serve on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past Chair. RV Industry Association President Craig Kirby also serves on the Executive Committee.

The one-year term for RV Industry Association Executive Committee officers begins January 1, 2025.

Jasper Hafkamp appointed Global Managing Director of Brink Group

Jasper Hafkamp was appointed as the new Global Managing Director of Brink Group on 1 November. He brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the Daimler/Mercedes-Benz organisation and a proven track record of leadership, general management, and sales & marketing as well as aftersales and operations. His focus was on growing business, building diverse teams, market development and new business approaches to ensure

expansion in challenging markets.

Harald Hiller, President and CEO of AL-KO Vehicle Technology, comments: “I am delighted that we have gained Jasper Hafkamp as an experienced leader who will enrich our global management team. Jasper will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our operations, driving our strategic initiatives, and continuing to build on our success. We are confident that under his leadership we will achieve new heights

and continue to deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders.”

Brink Group, one of the global market leaders in towing systems, had been part of the AL-KO/DexKo group of companies since 2021.

Today, the company boasts more than 800 passionate employees spread across nine locations (including Staphorst and Oosterhout in the Netherlands, France, Thailand, South Africa, Denmark, Poland, Italy, and Australia).

The highly engineered product portfolio, which is crucial to safety and performance, includes fixed, detachable, retractable and next generation towbars.

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Recreational vehicles: suitable for internal or external floor panels, wall panels and for doors. Commercial vehicles: suitable for internal or external floor panels, wall panels and for doors. Refrigerated equipments: suitable for internal and external floor panels.

Estafette Concept shows Renault’s electric van vision for the future

Renault has revealed an Estafette Concept van at the IAA Transportation fair in Germany showing its vision for its electric utility vehicles moving forward. Although designed for cities., it is a compact yet spacious all-electric van combining Kangoo L2’s length, Clio’s agility and Trafic L1H2’s load capacity. It is a glimpse into how Flexis – a joint venture by Renault Group, Volvo Group and CMA CGM Group – will rise to the challenges in the energy transition and last-kilometre logistics

The Estafette Concept is Renault Group’s first vehicle built around an SDV (Software-Defined Vehicle) electronic architecture. It is opening the door to the next generation of electric utility vehicles, which will be intelligent, scalable and modular. This SDV architecture was developed by Ampere, Renault Group’s pure-player specialist in intelligent electric vehicles, is directly connected to the cloud, and plays an essential role in increasing the vehicle’s operational and cost efficiency. It links customers to new services, updates the vehicle throughout its life cycle, learns about the user’s habits and contributes to reducing cost in use by about 30%.

The Estafette Concept has much more in common with Renault’s

1959 van than the jovial round headlamps. They are both radically innovative and practical. The original Estafette was the very first Renault brand vehicle to fit the entire powertrain – engine and transmission – at the front to free up all the space behind for loading. The new Estafette 4.0 is the first to feature the FlexEVan electric platform, which is poised to upend the utility vehicle landscape. Estafette Concept’s footprint (4.87 x 1.92 metres) is in the same league as Kangoo L2’s (4.91 x 1.86 metres). They both fit in a standard parking spot (less than 5 metres long), while being more agile, with a turning circle between kerbs similar to that of a Clio (just over 10 metres). But Estafette Concept is considerably higher (2.59 metres compared with 1.85), so its silhouette is distinctly vertical. The driver, as a result, can effortlessly move back and forth between the cockpit and cargo area.

Forest River announces passing of its founder, Peter Liegl

Forest River, Inc. has announced the passing of its founder, Peter J. Liegl. He was a visionary leader who transformed the RV industry and also one of Indiana’s proudest citizens and most generous philanthropists. Peter was best known as the founder of Forest River, Inc., but also the man who in 2005 sold Forest River to famed investor Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. His role in building the RV industry into a multibillion-dollar enterprise began from humble beginnings. Sales and management positions brought him valuable experience in production, operations, and customer service. In 1996, Liegl established Forest River, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, with the vision of bringing the power of nature to as many Americans as possible. Forest River grew rapidly under his leadership, expanding its product range to include not only RVs but also buses, cargo trailers, and marine products. Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Forest River employs 14,000+ employees in 100+ facilities in more than a half dozen states.

Hydrogen-powered Renault Master H2-Tech prototype promises 700km range

This world premiere of the Renault Master H2-Tech Prototype at the IAA Transportation fair in Hannover, Germany, promises a range of 700 km (WLTP), whatever the weather conditions, and a recharge time of 5 minutes. This new zero-emission version of the Master has been developed by HYVIA, a joint venture between Renault Group and Plug dedicated to hydrogen mobility. This hydrogen version has been designed to offer constant operational availability and total peace of mind for the intensive use of professionals. The New Renault Master H2-Tech Prototype is a major, pioneering innovation, made possible by the H2 expertise developed by HYVIA over more than 3 years, based on customer feedback on the first two H2-Tech versions, available since 2023. This innovation offers reliability and performance, thanks to a hydrogen architecture that is fully integrated into the vehicle platform right from the design stage, preserving both the loading area and the payload. The new-generation Dual Power: battery & fuel cell energy architecture is energy-efficient, offering unprecedented range with an integrated multimedia system for optimized management of range and H2 consumption.

The future Renault Master H2-Tech will be marketed by Renault and will benefit from a network of specialist H2-Tech dealers trained in the challenges of hydrogen for the sale and after-sales service of this new version. The vehicle will be fully integrated into Renault’s commercial vehicle range and will be supported by all the brand’s commercial expertise.

Hubert Brandl Chairman of the Management Board of Bürstner

Bürstner, a brand of the Erwin Hymer Group, the European subsidiary of the world’s largest manufacturer of leisure vehicles, Thor Industries, is repositioning itself: Hubert Brandl is taking over as CEO of Bürstner with immediate effect and, together with Alexander Kasteleiner, commercial director at Bürstner, is responsible for the business of the traditional caravan and motorhome manufacturer with its headquarters in Kehl. The previous managing directors Jens Kromer and Olaf Sackers are leaving the company by mutual consent. Hubert Brandl is taking over the sales and production areas at Bürstner in addition to his duties as managing director at Niesmann+Bischoff, a manufacturer of luxury motorhomes based in Polch, and is relying on an experienced management team. Board member of Tabbert Industrie AG and marketing manager of the Tabbert brand, he was appointed managing director of Tabbert Caravan GmbH in 2001. Here he was responsible for the successful realignment of the brand. In 2006, Erwin Hymer brought him to Niesmann+Bischoff as managing director. His appointment began an unprecedented success story for the luxury motorhome manufacturer that continues to this day.

SFC Energy AG opens its largest production facility in Romania

SFC Energy AG, a provider of hydrogen and methanol fuel cells for stationary, portable and mobile hybrid power solutions, opened its new production facility in Cluj, Romania. In October 2011, as part of its strategic focus on becoming a system provider, SFC Energy acquired the Dutch PBF Group B.V., which had been active in Romania since 2009. At that time, the site employed around 20 people. Due to the increasing demand for SFC’s solutions in recent years, the workforce has been expanded to around 115 employees. Consequently, around 30% of SFC’s total global workforce of 421 employees as of the end of the first half of 2024 will be based in Romania, which underlines the key importance of the site for the Group as a whole. The grand opening of the newly constructed building, in the immediate vicinity of the existing site, has paved the way for the next stage of SFC Energy’s planned growth.

SFC Energy AG reported an increase in group sales of 19.5% to EUR 105,190,000 compared to EUR 88,030,000 in the same period last year.

Winnebago Industries fourth quarter and full year 2024 results

Winnebago Industries has released its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year Fiscal 2024 showing a decrease in revenues driven primarily by product mix and market conditions. The Company returned $106.8 million to shareholders via repurchases and dividends in FY 2024, despite a challenging market environment and has made leadership changes aimed at strengthening its market position. Revenues in the fourth quarter were $720.9 million, a decrease of 6.5% compared to $771.0 million in the fourth quarter of last year, driven primarily by product mix, partially offset by higher unit volume. Revenues for the Towable RV segment in the fourth quarter (three months ended August 31, 2024) were down compared to the prior year, primarily driven by a reduction in average selling price per unit related to product mix, partially offset by an increase in unit volume. Revenues for the Motorhome RV segment were

down from the prior year due to product mix and a decline in unit volume related to market conditions, partially offset by price increases related to higher motorized chassis costs.

Gross profit in the period was $94.2 million, a decrease of 26.1% compared to $127.5 million in the fourth quarter of last year. Gross profit margin decreased 340 basis points in the quarter to 13.1%, reflecting higher warranty expense, operational challenges, and deleverage.

Operating expenses in the fourth quarter were $112.0 million, an increase of 60.4% compared to $70.0 million in the fourth quarter of last year. This increase was primarily driven by a $30.3 million impairment charge associated with the Chris-Craft reporting unit, start-up costs associated with the launch of the Grand Design motorized business, and strategic investments in engineering, digital technology development and increased data and information technology capabilities. The decline in fair value of the Chris-Craft reporting unit was driven

primarily by softening in the marine industry as a result of sustained macroeconomic challenges impacting consumer demand, such as inflationary pressures and elevated interest rates, and the current uncertainty regarding the timing and degree of an economic recovery.

There was an operating loss of $17.8 million compared to operating income of $57.5 million in the fourth quarter of last year.

Net loss was $29.1 million, compared to net income of $43.8 million in the fourth quarter of last year.

Revenues for the full year fiscal 2024 were $3.0 billion, a decrease of 14.8% compared to $3.5 billion in Fiscal 2023, driven primarily by product mix and lower unit sales related to market conditions.

F ace to face with BODO DILLER

LMC, innovation and solid craftsmanship

We spoke with Sales Managing Director Bodo Diller about the current market situation, new product innovations, and LMC’s vision for the future

Words Claus-Detlev Bues

LMC, located in the Westphalian town of Sassenberg, is one of Germany’s most established caravanning manufacturers. Following the plant expansion in 2018, the Sassenberg site became one of the most modern production facilities in the European caravanning industry. The LMC management team includes Timo Ecke, who oversees production and development, and Bodo Diller, in charge of sales.

Aboutcamp BtoB - LMC is one of the most historic companies in the European caravanning industry. The first caravan was built in 1955, and in 1991, LMC became part of the Erwin Hymer Group. How has the company developed over time, both at the corporate level and in its relationship with the market?

Bodo Diller - That’s right, we will be celebrating our 70th anniversary in 2025, and we are pleased to offer a brief insight into the company’s history. We will regularly share small stories about our developments here. LMC Caravan, based in the Münsterland region, reflects the down-to-earth and honest mentality of the people from this area, incorporating these traits into the core values of our brand. In our opinion, solid workmanship and genuine craftsmanship are the strengths of our region. Few would expect to find a modern, state-of-the-art production facility for recreational vehicles, covering an area of over 200,000 m², in the small town of Sassenberg in Westphalia’s Münsterland region. Our factory is considered one of the most modern in Europe. A lot has happened since the company’s founding in 1955. Starting with the production of the legendary Caravan Knospe, the company has grown steadily. In the 1960s, 15 employees produced the Knospe in various versions. Wilhelm Saure, who took over the company as ‘Wilhelm Saure KG’ in 1966, ushered in a period of growth and expanded production. The Lord and Münsterland series helped achieve the production of the 10,000th caravan just ten years later. In the 1980s, motorhome production was added, and the company was renamed LMC Lord Münsterland GmbH. In 1991, LMC was acquired by Erwin Hymer and continued as LMC-Caravan GmbH. Caravans were produced for the T.E.C. brand, and in 1995, T.E.C. moved to the Sassenberg site. Around the turn of the millennium, investments were made in a new customer service center, a new production and logistics hall, and updated machinery and equipment. In 2018, a further expansion of production doubled the plant’s capacity, with machinery updated to the latest state of the art. We can proudly claim that we

have quickly adapted to changing market conditions. For example, in 2021, we responded to market demand by adding the camper van segment to our production line at short notice. Today, LMC is a modern facility where we produce vehicles in the caravan, motorhome, and camper van segments. In addition to producing LMC vehicles, the Sassenberg site also manufactures for other sister companies within the Erwin Hymer Group.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Can you give us an overview of LMC’s production structure? What changes or developments have there been over the years in terms of plant facilities, machinery, and construction processes?

Bodo Diller - The major expansion of the plant, completed with the opening of the new production facility in 2018, helped to double production capacity through the use of the latest technology and marked a milestone in LMC’s history. In addition to restructuring workflows, investments were made in a water jet cutting system, a roof line, an edge processing center, and hail protection roofs to optimize production.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What synergies exist between LMC, as a member of the Erwin Hymer Group, and the other companies within the group? Do you also

produce vehicles for other brands in your factory?

Bodo Diller - The integration into the Hymer Group in 1991 strengthened the brand by providing a solid foundation, particularly in the further development of processes and the exploitation of synergies. The group grants us access to services that are more cost-effective collectively, such as a joint legal department, shared IT services, and knowledge transfer through competence centers distributed among the group’s affiliates. LMC is recognized as the Caravan Competence Center within the group. We also manufacture caravans on behalf of our affiliates, tailored to their requirements and specifications.

Aboutcamp BtoB - The market seems to be showing signs of normalization today. How is LMC responding to this development, and what strategies are in place to navigate these market conditions?

Bodo Diller - The caravanning market has always experienced regular fluctuations. In recent years, we have faced the unique impact of the coronavirus pandemic, which has reaffirmed that our way of traveling offers more freedom than others. Trade fairs continue to demonstrate that interest in caravanning remains strong, with visitor numbers consistently reaching new records. The increasing registration figures, particularly in the motorhome segment, confirm this trend. We are actively supporting our dealers in reducing their currently excessive inventories. For this year, we have adjusted our production capacities to further decrease trade inventories, allowing us to return to a normal season with standard inventory levels next September.

As a manufacturer, it is crucial to have strategies that enable us to respond to market changes promptly. These strategies include quickly addressing customer needs in terms of price sensitivity and requirements, as well as allowing for adaptable production regarding unit numbers and timely delivery. In our anniversary year, we will be launching numerous new products and designs in response to market conditions, with the first completely new developments set to be presented at CMT Stuttgart in January 2025.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Despite the recent decline in the caravan market, LMC continues to invest in this segment. How do you foresee the importance of caravan production evolving in the future, and what strategies are you employing to maintain or grow your market share?

Bodo Diller - We continue to observe stable interest in purchasing caravans. Even in a declining market, we have managed to increase our market share over the last 12 months. This reaffirms that our products are market-oriented and viewed as attractive by potential buyers. Our new design has been particularly well received, and we are extending it to upcoming model series that are now nearing the final stages of development. However, I prefer not to reveal too much at this stage.

Aboutcamp BtoB - In recent years, LMC has made significant investments in the Sassenberg site to strengthen its position in the motorhome and caravan markets. Could you explain these investments and their impact on LMC’s market share in more detail?

Bodo Diller - In recent years, LMC has made targeted investments in the Sassenberg site to enhance both production capacities and the quality of our caravans, motorhomes, and camper vans. These investments encompass modernized manufacturing technologies, sustainable production methods, and training programs for our employees. These initiatives have not only increased our efficiency but also enabled us to launch innovative products that meet our customers’ needs. We have placed particular emphasis on quality, setting the goal of becoming the benchmark in the industry, which our customers expect from us. These strategic steps have helped us increase our market share across all seg-

F ace to face with BODO DILLER

Bio of Bodo Diller

Bodo Diller is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in sales and management, currently serving at LMC since September 1, 2018. At 50 years old, he is married and a proud father of two daughters. Diller holds a certification as a business economist and has built a robust career across various companies, including IVECO West Commercial Vehicles GmbH, where he advanced from Head of Sales Back Office to Sales Manager and Site Manager at different locations.

ments and further establish LMC as a trusted brand in the recreational vehicle industry.

Aboutcamp BtoB - For many years, LMC has offered a pop-top roof not only for motorhomes and campervans but also for caravans. Was this solution developed to differentiate LMC in an increasingly homogeneous market?

Bodo Diller - We have included the poptop roof for our caravans in our program since 2011, and it is an excellent way to expand the space for travelers, creating a second room. LMC is recognized as a think tank for caravans, particularly for such developments. Of course, we can differentiate ourselves from many manufacturers with this product, offering great added value to interested parties.

Aboutcamp BtoB - The long warranty period offered for LMC vehicles has proven to be a successful strategy. How has this initiative contributed

to customer satisfaction and brand loyalty?

Bodo Diller - Our LMC owners are very loyal to the brand, and our 12-year leak warranty certainly contributes to this. We believe that the quality and durability of our products are crucial factors here.

Aboutcamp BtoB - LMC has recently announced a collaboration with Humbaur through the new brand MODO. Could you explain the strategic objectives behind this partnership and how it will enhance the offerings and market presence of both companies?

Bodo Diller - Together with Europe’s largest trailer manufacturer, Humbaur GmbH, we are introducing MODO, an innovation outside the well-known product segments of caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and transport trailers. MODO is the result of close cooperation with Humbaur—a multifunctional vehicle that impresses in both professional and private everyday life. Thanks to its modular interior design, it offers maximum flexibility and versatility. The strategic goal of this collaboration is to showcase our flexible furniture system within a high-quality trailer and to enter the market with it. For Humbaur, this partnership expands their range to include camping trailers, while for us at LMC, it presents an opportunity to highlight our furniture system among the target group of tradespeople. The large market for self-conversion is also exciting. We provide them with the opportunity to use our system to convert their dream vehi-

has responded so far?

Bodo Diller - The Tourer Alcove was introduced at the beginning of 2024, so it is still quite new in the market. However, it has proven particularly popular with rental companies. Specifically, the six-person registration at a weight of 3.5 tons is attractive for rental businesses, making it possible for larger families or travel groups to enjoy a motorhome holiday—all with a Class B driver’s license, which certainly provides a competitive advantage.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Winning the German Innovation Award is a significant achievement. How does LMC plan to continue promoting innovation, and are there any upcoming projects or technologies that you are particularly excited about?

cle flexibly, quickly, and cost-effectively according to their own ideas.

Aboutcamp BtoBThe Tourer Alcove was introduced as one of LMC’s innovations for the 2024 season. Can you tell us how the market

Bodo Diller - We are thrilled to receive the award for our Innovans 592, a camper van under 6 meters with lengthwise beds. Our development department thoroughly enjoyed working on the smart furniture construction solutions for this model. We showcased the 592 as a prototype at the CMT and conducted a survey among trade fair visitors. We always welcome visitor feedback to gather helpful insights for the further development of the prototype, as the “market opinion” is invaluable to our innovations. At the last Caravan Salon, we once again conducted a study and collected feedback from visitors to determine whether the Innovan Active concept could also work for a caravan. The Innovan Active features an off-road aesthetic. The idea is that many SUV drivers don’t utilize their vehicles for off-roading, yet they appreciate the look. This concept is effective for the Innovan Active. We wondered whether an SUV driver would prefer to tow a visually matching caravan and if they would be willing to invest more money for it. In addition to the design, we’ve added practical features, such as a folding ladder to access the roof, which is equipped with roof rails for storing additional equipment outside. The all-around and underbody lighting, which enhances visibility in the dark, was rated as very useful by 36.76% of participants—a clear plus for safety during (offroad) camping, should the need arise during a holiday.

Aboutcamp BtoB - LMC recently received the Lean Stars Award 2024, which recognizes the company’s achievements in lean management. Can you explain the specific practices or initiatives that contributed to receiving

this award and how they have impacted overall production efficiency and product quality at LMC?

Bodo Diller - In April 2020, the Lean Stars Awards were presented as part of the annual EHG Lean Maturity Assessment—an internal group prize recognizing outstanding lean management. We received the Lean Allstar Award for our exceptional performance and continuous development of lean activities. The goal of lean management is to enhance process efficiency through standardized production systems and to eliminate unnecessary activities, thereby improving performance and customer satisfaction. For us at LMC, this award is a testament to our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement through lean management. Since 2019, lean management has been firmly embedded in the operational strategies of EHG and LMC. At our plant, ten individuals from various departments collaborate as a cross-functional team, working together to develop sustainable solutions for continuous improvement. At LMC, our focus in this area includes optimal workplace design, quality management, strategic leadership, and shop floor management.

Aboutcamp BtoB - With the introduction of the Tourer series, LMC continues to focus on lightweight construction and optimized use of space. What else is technically possible in the field of lightweight construction to make the vehicles even lighter?

Bodo Diller - The topic of lightweight construction is a major focus at LMC. For us, it’s not about eliminating features but rather optimizing the use of materials and design. Our design and development department continually reviews and enhances our products, even within model cycles. The Tourer series exemplifies this approach. Even at its launch, the weight of the vehicles was quite encouraging. Over the last model year, we achieved a weight reduction by replacing materials, allowing us to target an additional 30 kg reduction in the future. It is particularly important to us that this does not come at the expense of quality. With the Tour-

er Alkoven, we have designed a model that realistically accommodates six people for a pleasant holiday, providing six seats and berths, ample storage for additional loads, all while keeping the weight under 3.5 tons (mass in running order: 2,841 kg).

Aboutcamp BtoB - How do you envision LMC Genuine Accessories helping dealers and improving the overall customer experience? What kind of products can customers expect in this new range, now that they were introduced in August?

Bodo Diller - With LMC Genuine Accessories, we are providing our customers with the opportunity to easily view all the accessories that fit their vehicles perfectly, making it simpler to find what they need. One example is the various passenger door safes. In our LMC original accessories overview on our website, interested parties can find the right safe for the Fiat, Citroën, and Ford chassis directly under the ‘Safety’ category. Our trade partners often have their own accessories shop, which can showcase these items directly in the display, thereby drawing the attention of potential customers to precisely fitting products. We have summarized the product portfolio into the following categories:

• Your Vehicle: This category features items that enhance comfort or expand your vehicle’s functionality, such as an additional child bed for the cockpit.

• Security: Here, we list items that enhance travel safety, for example, sensors for the LMC Home app.

• Comfort: This category includes products that make the interior cozier, such as a driver’s cabin rug or LED spotlights for the power rail.

• Multimedia: This category features

items like tablet or smartphone holders and USB charging sockets.

• Utilities: Here, you will find items ranging from water filters and pumps to electrical supplies.

• Merchandise: For fans of the LMC brand, we offer promotional items suitable for holidays, such as folding boxes or reflective vests.

• Backrack+: As a special category, we list all items related to the Backrack+, a component carrier for our Innovans on Fiat.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What are LMC’s plans for the future? How do you see the company developing in the coming years, and what can customers expect in terms of new products and innovations?

Bodo Diller - Our goal for the LMC brand is to enable our customers to enjoy a carefree holiday experience in their mobile homes and caravans. To achieve this, we are consistently positioning our company for a sustainable future, fulfilling our vision of being “a profitable recreational vehicle manufacturer with a noticeable presence in Europe.” To strengthen this vision, we continue to develop market-oriented products that cater to the needs of our target group, focusing on both interior and exterior design as well as pricing. Next year, we will celebrate our 70th anniversary with the theme “70 years of LMC – experts by tradition.” To mark this occasion, our portfolio will expand to include special models in the caravan, motorhome, and camper van segments. In January, we will provide a sneak peek of a new caravan series that will be available in stores at the season’s kickoff. The excitement of new products will continue with the model year change, featuring extensive updates to the Cruiser motorhome series. Stay tuned, as we have a few more launches planned for the new model year, but we won’t disclose any further details at this time.

Claus-Detlev Bues (left) and our Editor in chief (right) during the interview with Bodo Diller (in the center)

Frankia stands for design, quality and comfort

Founded in 1960, Frankia is one of the German pioneers in motorhome construction, setting standards in the premium sector: lifestyle, innovation and outstanding quality ‘Made in Germany’. Over 650 integrated, semi-integrated and alcove motorhomes leave the factory every year. The company is now part of the French Groupe Pilote

Frankia has a workforce of almost 300 employees in development and production, and is currently managed by Konstantin Döhler as MD. Aboutcamp BtoB spoke to him about the current market situation, the products and the company’s philosophy and goals.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Mr Döhler, you are Managing Director at Frankia. What rights and obligations do your title and position entail?

Konstantin Döhler - As Managing Director and authorised signatory, I am responsible for almost 300 Frankia employees at our site in Marktschorgast in Upper Franconia/Germany. I also have overall responsibility for the Yucon brand and am in charge of sales for the French brands Pilote and Joa on the German market. Of course, these duties also bring with them many opportunities: I can organise and develop a lot independently with my team and literally ‘get things moving’.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Frankia has been part of the Pilote Group since 1990. What does the Pilote patchwork family currently look like?

Konstantin Döhler - Pilote basically consists of two companies: GP S.A. S and Frankia-GP GmbH. Under this umbrella, we unite many strong brands such as Frankia, Pilote, Yucon, Bavaria, Joa, LeVoyageur and Mooveo. We now produce over 7,000 units per year at three locations (two in France and one in Germany).

Aboutcamp BtoB - What synergies do Frankia and the other GP family members benefit from?

Konstantin Döhler - All brands benefit from various synergies: First and foremost, this is certainly joint purchasing. But the intensive exchange in the areas of development, sales and marketing also helps each individual Groupe Pilote brand to progress. In terms of sales, it is of course an advantage for our French brands Pilote and Joa that this is also managed from Germany. On the other hand, Frankia and Yucon benefit from the dealer contacts through Groupe Pilote in France. The same applies to trade fairs: For example, our Frankia team organises all national trade fairs for all brands in Germany.

Aboutcamp BtoB - How do you assess the current market situation for motorhomes and how do you think the market will develop in the medium term?

Konstantin Döhler - We are certainly facing different challenges today than two years ago. Whereas in the past we talked about delivery issues, today we are primarily concerned with the market situation, interest rates and stock levels. The ‘corona high’ is certainly over, but I would speak of a ‘normalisation of the market’. Stock levels certainly need to be monitored and managed. Now more than ever, it is important to take care of customers’ needs and fulfil their requirements. In the medium term, I am positive about the development. Camping and motorhome holidays are now a form of holiday that has become just as mainstream as air travel, cruises or holiday homes. The market and the opportunities are there and will certainly continue to develop. If our products help to optimise the framework conditions for our customers, for example in terms of self-sufficiency, comfort or parking space provision, we will continue to keep the enthusiasm for this sustainable form of holiday high. I still see a lot of opportunities and development potential here.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What does Frankia’s current product portfolio look like and what characterises Frankia motorhomes, what distinguishes them from the competition?

Konstantin Döhler - Frankia operates in the premium motorhome segment between 3.5 and 5.5 tons total weight. Thanks to long-standing part-

F ace to face with KONSTANTIN DÖHLER

nerships with Stellantis and Mercedes, the choice between these two chassis is part of our tradition. In our almost 65-year history, we are proud to have played a key role in shaping and advancing such important topics as double floors and spacious bathrooms. We can also look back on the largest variety of vehicles with round seating group layouts. However, Frankia has continued to develop steadily, especially in recent years: the founding

of the now independent campervan brand Yucon was an extremely important step, as was the expansion of the 3.5 ton segment with our NEO series. Last year, we took another major step in brand development and launched our latest product NOW - with a completely new design lan guage and many smart ideas and solutions, in keeping with the brand’s tradition.

Aboutcamp BtoB - With Yucon, Frankia has launched a panel van brand that has motorhomes ranging from urban campervans to luxury microliners in its portfolio. How has the brand developed and what target group are you aiming for with Yucon?

Konstantin Döhler - With Yucon, we are aiming at a completely different target group than with Frankia motorhomes. The Yucon target group is certainly younger, but it is also characterised by the need for independence, flexibility and a thirst for adventure. Our allwheel-drive Yucon K-Peak microliner - which has now been successfully on the market for two years - emphasises precisely this idea: high quality combined with more than extensive equipment and the opportunity to experience adventures off the beaten track. When we launched the Yucon in 2019, our microliners not only surprised people, but also aroused a lot of curiosity and enthusiasm. Yucon has since established itself as a successful product and is now a key pillar of our sales organisation. But we are not resting on our laurels here either: We will continue to surprise people with Yucon in the future and accompany them on their adventures.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Does the Yucon panel van brand have its own dealer

network or are Yucon vehicles sold exclusively through Frankia dealers?

Konstantin Döhler - It’s a combination of both. Of course, we also want to give our Frankia dealer network the opportunity to sell Yucon. But there are also partners who specialise in Yucon.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What is the current delivery situation and variety of chassis suppliers for Frankia and Yucon?

Konstantin Döhler - The supply situation has relatively normalised again, and we hope that this stability will continue. We are convinced that long-term partnerships are a great asset. For this reason, we have been working with both Fiat and Mercedes without interruption for decades and are therefore able to offer a wide range of products from both partners.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What is the relationship between Frankia and its retail partners like? Is Frankia represented throughout Germany?

Konstantin Döhler - I am very proud of the fact that we have 32 partners in our German retail network - some of whom have been working with us for over 30 years. This means that we are represented throughout Germany - but of course we would like to expand even further.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What special benefits do dealerships that sell Frankia motorhomes and Yucon campervans enjoy?

Konstantin Döhler - Frankia is known for its wide range of products and special solutions that make travelling even more comfortable. These points and high product quality characterise us and offer our retail partners a wide range of opportunities. Furthermore, we are not a huge company and accordingly we work in the areas of after sales and sales administration with the philosophy of ‘one face to the customer’. We want to offer our partners a reliable contact person who takes care of their concerns so that working with us is as easy as possible. We work on this every day and are constantly improving.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What do you think of alternative sales channels such as agency business, online retail or other platforms?

Konstantin Döhler - Of course, these are exciting channels, and you can currently see how the automotive industry is diligently testing these alternatives. However, I think that our products are too high-quality and require too much explanation for this.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What is Frankia’s philosophy when developing new models and inspiring new customers?

Konstantin Döhler - We clearly develop our new products according to three standards: Design, quality and comfort. Only when we are sure that a new product fulfils all of these at the highest level do we present it to our retail partners and customers. My top priority is that we must be open to change and courageous so that our products and our portfolio can continue to evolve.

Designing the future T he floor to FLUIDEEN CREATORS

At Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, the Italian division of the Trigano group made a splash by unveiling the Mobilvetta Fluideen concept vehicle. This vehicle showcased advanced technical solutions while also prioritising environmental sustainability. We interviewed Massimo Lori, Project Manager, Gianluca Mugnaini, Product Manager, Letizia Bruni, Designer, and Andrea Mugnaini, Technical Manager, to discuss the innovation behind the concept

The name Fluideen is born from a fusion of the words fluid and green. Fluid refers to the continuity between the interior spaces and the surrounding environment, as well as the smooth, nature-inspired lines of the design. The word green symbolises the use of natural and recycled materials, along with a natural, relaxing, and harmonious colour palette. This vehicle is based on the well-known K-Yacht Tekno Line motorhome by Mobilvetta but has undergone a radical transformation in its final version. What

inspired this project, and how was it developed? What are its objectives? We sought answers from those within Trigano who played a crucial role in creating the Fluideen.

Aboutcamp BtoB − At Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, Mobilvetta unexpectedly unveiled a concept vehicle. What prompted this decision?

Massimo Lori − The decision stems from the DNA of the Mobilvetta brand, which has always been closely linked to innovation in both technology and

design. Mobilvetta vehicles are characterised and heavily influenced by yacht design. We felt it was time to take a leap into the future, proposing new lines and shapes while exploring advanced technologies and new components. We believe the sector needs an innovative push and is ready to embrace new style ideas more aligned with trends in the furniture market, as well as cutting-edge technical solutions.

Aboutcamp BtoB − And what is the idea behind this concept?

Letizia Bruni − The concept is built on the idea of merging design with innovative technologies, cutting-edge com-

ponents, and carefully selected materials. This isn’t just a design exercise, which would have led us to make very different choices. Instead, it’s about harmonising design with technical elements. For instance, the vehicle features panoramic ribbon windows with automatic privacy control, an internal lighting system based on chromotherapy with four independently managed zones, and an automatic, simultaneous closure of all compartments. Externally, we’ve introduced a new metallic colour with scratch-resistant paint, electronic side mirrors, hidden hinges, and flush handles. Although the vehicle is not intended for production, many of the design and technical elements will be implemented in future Mobilvetta ranges.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Trigano is a true industrial powerhouse in the sector

with brands like Mobilvetta, CI, McLouis, Roller Team, and Arca. But it has never focused on concept vehicles. Why the shift?

Gianluca Mugnaini − While the company has never previously developed a concept vehicle, it has created prototypes in the past that incorporated cutting-edge technical solutions. For example, the Triaca was developed a few years ago in collaboration with the Design Department of the University of Florence and was presented at the Parma Fair. The Fluideen, however, was entirely conceived at our design centre and developed within our product development area.

Aboutcamp BtoB − In the automotive sector, concept vehicles are a common practice. However, the RV industry doesn’t have the same traditions:

how far is it possible and worthwhile to push the boundaries?

Andrea Mugnaini − The fact that concept vehicles are not customary in our sector stems from several factors. First, in our industry, model range updates happen frequently, while designing and developing a concept vehicle takes two to three years. Secondly, for our vehicle category (3.5 tons), we need to respect specific weight limits and keep costs aligned with our market positioning. Many components and materials we experimented with are not currently implementable in mass-produced vehicles due to their high weight and cost. Despite these challenges, creating the Fluideen was a valuable experience, providing us with excellent information for the future. Our goal is to gradually introduce new technological and design innovations into our production

T he floor to FLUIDEEN CREATORS

vehicles. In the future, we also plan to develop another concept vehicle. For us, Mobilvetta represents design and innovation, and we aim to continue achieving this in the coming years.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What are the most innovative sty listic elements?

Letizia Bruni − It’s challenging to separate stylistic elements from technical content. The stylistic features blend indistinguishably with the technical solutions. For example, the acrylic stone accessories, such as the shower tray, integrated sink countertop, and under-counter kitchen sink, are all designed by us; they are unique in shape and function and utilise advanced technology suitable for our sector.

At the core is the study of a lightweight, sustainable conglomerate that customers can easily maintain with readily available products. The shower tray’s walking surface features a texture that simulates natural stone, providing both aesthetic appeal and slip resistance. Similarly, the floral wallpaper not only serves a decorative purpose but also has sound-absorbing and sound-insulating properties, retaining and gradually releasing fragrance to stimulate the sense of smell. I would also add the use of chromotherapy, recycled and recyclable materials for upholstery, and the absence of locks, allowing customers to use the furniture fluidly and dynamically as they would at home, securing all

cabinets when they begin their journey through automatic simultaneous closures. Finally, the overall fluid, harmonious line concept eliminates or conceals sharp edges to create a welcoming, comfortable, and spacious environment.

Aboutcamp BtoB −

And what are the most advanced technological solutions?

Andrea Mugnaini −

There are several other technical solutions that, as we have stated, have a significant impact on style and define it. For example, the windows automatically darken to provide unprecedented visibility to the outside and break down the separation between the interior and exterior. The step for accessing the bed is another good example. When the step is lowered, it is flush with the floor, allowing the customer to move freely in front of the beds, access the garage, and open the folding door of the wardrobe. There are also other elements that can be adjusted to make the vehicle more us er-friendly, such as the coat rack and table. The table can slide and open automatically, and it also includes a USB charging station with a

reading light.

Additionally, the refrigerator door has a dual purpose, hiding a pantry with various shelves inside. Finally, we can note the keyless technology for locking and unlocking the rear compartments, as well as the grey water recycling system.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Does the Fluideen concept have a ‘green soul’?

Letizia Bruni − With the Fluideen, we took the opportunity to explore what the market offers in terms of recycled and recyclable materials that can be used in our sector. We introduced recycled fabrics and faux leathers produced through environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing processes. For all the upholstery, we used a microcellular foam made from plant-based raw materials, drawing from renewable sources found in nature. The grey water reuse systems allow for reduced water consumption. It’s also worth noting the use of natural materials that are technologically suitable for our sector, such as fabrics made from natural fibres, plywood veneer for structural panel coverings, and water-based lacquers.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Is it really possible for a company that builds campers to pay close attention to environmental sustainability, not just in production processes but also in the products brought to market?

possible. Some measures have already been widely implemented in our company. For example, our furniture is made from plywood panels produced using wood sourced from plantations specifically created for this purpose; the waste from these panels is reworked and used to create new panels. Water-based adhesives are used in the composition of the plywood panels. On some topics, we are further along, while on others, we are still working. The concept has given us the opportunity to explore eco-sustainable materials that we typically do not use, but unfortunately, we can say that it’s a challenging journey since, in reality, it’s not as simple as it is in other sectors. This is because introducing recycled and/or recyclable eco-sustainable materials into the production process has a very high technological and cost impact.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Which of the ideas in this concept can transition to series production in the short term?

Massimo Lori − The design has already been partially implemented in the Kea Kompakt range, which was showcased at the latest fairs. We are also considering introducing solutions that the public liked in the upcoming ranges for the Mobilvetta brand.

Aboutcamp BtoB − In the RV sector, at least in Europe, we are experiencing a phase of great changes. Is it possible to overcome production methods that have been in use for many years at the construction level? Can we make a shift towards using new materials, advanced systems, and construction

methods that look to the future?

Andrea Mugnaini − We are confident that in the coming years there will be an evolution in the systems aspect, and with Fluideen, we have tried to offer our contribution. However, the sector is also working hard on connectivity, and this will definitely be an important direction for evolution. It is time to prepare for a shift, certainly in the systems area, but also in production methods.

Aboutcamp BtoB − As we know, campers are assembled using many components sourced from outside the company, such as refrigerators and heating systems. In defining new frontiers for the RV sector, what role will manufacturers play compared to component suppliers?

Andrea Mugnaini − In our opinion, manufacturers will continue to play a fundamental role. Only through a collaborative effort between suppliers and manufacturers can we ensure the development of useful and functional technical solutions for customers, while also considering assembly requirements, weight limits, and other specific constraints of this type of product. Therefore, we believe it is more likely that manufacturers can make a difference when supported by the right suppliers.

Aboutcamp BtoB − The Mobilvetta Fluideen is a laboratory of ideas that also serves to gauge public opinion. How can you ensure an objective and

constructive response?

Gianluca Mugnaini − The goal of the concept is to stimulate customers, gather their opinions, and try to understand what future directions and developments may be. After that, we will work to make these ideas producible. We do not see risks of misinterpretation, as feedback comes from various sources: customers, press, dealers, and suppliers. This will help us better balance our decisions.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Talking about the audience capable of appreciating advanced solutions, do we think more about users with years of experience or about people approaching the sector for the first time?

Massimo Lori − We do not believe that experienced customers are hostile or resistant to change; on the contrary, thanks to their extensive experience, they can appreciate the proposed technical solutions. Our goal is to introduce something innovative but also functional in relation to the needs of the customer.

We are also confident that simple and functional technical solutions combined with a modern and pleasing design will be well-received even by those who are encountering the recreational vehicle sector for the first time.

Automotive technologies at the service of the RV world

New investments are being made to expand the offering of advanced solutions with eyes set on the U.S. market

Words Renato Antonini

AMA Composites continues to invest in LWRT technology derived from the automotive industry to be more present than ever in the market while increasing quality and productivity. This technology that carries typical automotive solutions over to the RV sector is the reason for the company’s remarkable recent growth. A new, high-performance six-axis robot was recently purchased to satisfy the demands of

large customers in AMA Composites’ various production sectors.

“We have purchased a twin-head, six-axis robot and this investment is significant to us because it allows us to complete water-cutting operations of components much faster” , said Marco Benatti, product manager at AMA Composites. “In an ever-changing market, AMA Composites is receiving increasing demands from RV manufacturers and we need

to satisfy these requests, increasing numbers but without decreasing quality. Actually, quality is better”

Anti-condensation panels

Anti-condensation panels are some of the new products offered by AMA Composites in the RV sector. These elements are hidden from sight but of key importance, especially during winter.

“We have recently developed anti-condensation panels specifically for a major European customer” , explained Marco Benatti, product manager at AMA Composites. “They are made of super-lightweight LWRT material and ensure proper separation – and ventilation – between the seat back and the inside of the side wall (covered with fiberglass). At the same time, can offer a panel that is appreciable from a design point of view. It is fabric-lined and so it is more aesthetically pleasing than a conventional rigid wooden panel”.

This new advanced cutting machinery can work together with the 400ton press for in-mold cutting. The combination is a state-of-the-art solution similar to that used on modern automotive production lines. The configuration was also designed to expand the reach of AMA Composites in the United States in the RV, automotive and agricultural machinery sectors. These are the three strategic areas in which the company, with the support of the entire AMA Group, has established itself in the

Custom heating mats

European market but may have excellent possibilities for development in the North American market.

AMA Composites in North America

Last September, AMA Composites was an exhibitor in the Elkhart Open House 2024 event, the top trade show for the RV industry and operators in North America organized, as known, in the world’s largest manufacturing hub around Elkhart in Indiana, USA.

“For the second year run ning, we were at Elkhart Open House. It was an op portunity to deepen our knowledge of the North American market, which is certainly different from the Eu ropean market, in terms of product types and numbers” , explained Marco Benatti. “We found the market to be receptive to our LWRT solutions. American manufacturers have realized the advantages of this technology in terms of product industrialization and ease of assembly of internal elements”

After entering the RV industry in

With regard to heating technology, AMA Composites is continuing to develop the AMATHERM/JESS fabric/membrane used to make custom heating solutions for the cab and the living pod. These heating mats can run at 12V or 230V as needed. Importantly, the technology is available for optional mats and after-market products or can be incorporated into the OEM floor.

2006 by tackling the European market, AMA Composites is now setting the stage for penetrating the U.S. market. The company can rely on the strength of the AMA group, which has offices worldwide, including in North America. Initially, AMA Composites will target the campervan market segment, in which it has been very successful in Europe in recent years, producing thousands of molded elements for interior wall cladding, for instance, for the rear sleeping area and doors. The company can supply American manufacturers with industrialized and tried-and-tested products because one of the most popular vans in North America is the RAM ProMaster, which is the American version of Stellantis’ European vans (Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Jumper and Opel Movano).

“Our innovative automotive-derived technologies guarantee light weight, sound insulation and fast assembly, not to mention good appearance” , said Marco Benatti.

Lighting in co-design

Dimatec has expanded the stock and is involved in co-design operations and custom production to be closer to customers than ever before

Words Renato Antonini

The trade show season has drawn to an end and Dimatec has benefited from valuable exchanges with the public and industry professionals. Work is continuing alongside RV builders in the various areas in which the company has gained a sound reputation for years now, first and foremost lighting.

“Visits to our booth at the Cara van Salon in Düs seldorf confirmed the high interest in the RV world and new products. This inspires us

to continue searching for new solutions”, said Alexander Vohwinkel, Key Account Manager at Dimatec. Dimatec is already working on projects that will materialize in 2026.

More and more projects are co-designed with customers, and custom products are designed in agreement with the various caravan, motorhome, and camper van manufacturers.

“We are certainly experiencing complicated, difficult but also exciting times in the RV industry and Dimatec is making strategic choices to stay in the market and provide the right products to customers”, Alexander Vohwinkel continued.

“For instance, my mind goes to the logistical problems associated with the current Red Sea crisis that has increased transportation costs for imports from Asia and has made delivery times longer. To cope with these

complex dynamics, Dimatec has decided to expand its stock further. A new warehouse will be opened soon, and we have already more than doubled the availability of goods in stock over the last three years. These investments will allow us to be closer and closer to customers with an excellent level of service. And then we are also investing in developing new products, researching new solutions, creating molds and, last but not least, streamlining type-approval procedures”.

Indoor lighting: more customized than ever

“Many changes are impacting RV interior lighting on design, production and market levels and Dimatec is changing the procedures for creating and marketing spots, ceiling lights and ambient lighting systems”, explained Alexander Vohwinkel. “There are fewer catalog products and more custom products, often co-designed”.

The latest European furniture trends

Exterior light

A new exterior light, which can be placed above the front door or else where on the side of the vehicle, was unveiled at the Caravan Sa lon. It complements the already wide range of outdoor lights with better energy efficiency. Like the other models, it aims for a compact and aerodynamic shape.

are for neutral colors and light colors, such as white or gray. Black spot lights are in high demand to provide contrast, and this is especially true for adjustable models. Dimatec has launched some eye-catching, bolder proposals, including ceiling lights with red or blue anodized aluminum profiles.

Another well-established trend in the European RV market is for diffuse, ambient lighting. Dimatec has several LED light strips in its catalog, and various light profiles. The company provides all its expertise to support the manufacturer in creating furniture with integrated lighting systems, because lights are often concealed or integrated into the furniture. More diffuse lighting does not necessarily mean a consistent reduction of individual lighting elements, such as spot lights and ceiling lights. And this is because there is a general need for more light aboard the latest generation of RVs, to make the vehicles more welcoming.

However, more light means higher energy consumption. This increase is partly managed by the use of lithium batteries of considerable capacity and durability but must be partly offset by the use of more efficient lighting systems.

“Dimatec is working hard to optimize the relationship between lighting performance and consumption”, said Alexander Vohwinkel. “Our research is aimed at finding ever more efficient lighting systems. Right now there are interesting developments with LED strips”.

Light clusters

Dimatec has also been making exterior vehicle lighting for several years and the new bi-led headlight motorhome front ends was showcased at the Düsseldorf trade fair. It is a circular headlight, 90 mm in diameter, with high and low beam functions. Alternatively, separate high-beam and lowbeam headlights are also available for manufacturers wishing to characterize the front of the vehicle with four headlights instead of two. Other lighting elements, such as turn signals and DRL daytime running lights to be combined with these front headlights, are at an advanced stage of study. Various modular rear light clusters recently launched on the market by Dimatec were also on show at the Caravan Salon.

Powering the future of off-grid energy

SFC Energy has established itself as a significant player in fuel cell technology. Specializing in hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells, SFC has pioneered energy solutions for diverse sectors, from recreational vehicles (RVs) to emergency response services

Words Editorial Staff

n this interview, Ricarda Gauder, Vice President, Product Management & Customer Care and Knut Kallbach, Sales Consumer Business, share insights into SFC Energy AG’s transformative journey.

Aboutcamp BtoB − SFC Energy AG is a leading provider of hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells. We’re interested in understanding the company’s journey of becoming the market leader.

Ricarda Gauder − SFC Energy AG has become a leading provider of hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells, and its journey to market leadership is a story of innovation and expansion, but truth to be told also one of try and error. Initially, SFC began by manufacturing fuel cells as an alternative power supply for motorhomes, addressing the need for reliable, off-grid energy in

this market. Over time, the company evolved beyond fuel cell production, transforming into a comprehensive energy solution provider. Today, SFC ensures reliable, fuel cell energy solutions worldwide, even in the most remote areas where the grid is inaccessible, right up to Antarctica. With its headquarters in Brunnthal/Munich, Ger many, the company has expanded its global presence, with operating subsidiaries in In dia, Canada, the Netherlands, Romania, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Why is fuel cell technology an ideal power supply for RV‘s, and in what other applications is it used?

Knut Kallbachr − Fuel cell technology, particularly the direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) technology found in EFOY Fuel Cells, offers significant advan

tages. By converting methanol from a fuel cartridge directly into electricity, supplemented by oxygen from the air, EFOY Fuel Cells generate power while producing only waste heat, water vapor, and a small amount of carbon dioxide as by-products. This makes them an environmentally friendly solution with a high energy density and the ability to be self-sufficient for days or even weeks. Beyond RVs and boats, EFOY Fuel Cells are used in applications such as CCTV systems, wind measurement stations, traffic management and as an onboard power supply for vehicles, where reliable, quiet, offgrid power is essential. They are utilized by police, fire departments and special forces in crises and emergency situations, providing a reliable energy source in challenging environments.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Talking about fuel cells people most likely think about hydrogen fuel cells. Why did SFC start by using methanol as a fuel?

Ricarda Gauder − Methanol is used as fuel primarily because it is a liquid, making it easy to transport, store, and handle compared to hydrogen fuel cells, which require complex logistics for gas storage. Methanol can be filled into plastic cartridges, offering a convenient and safe solution without the need for high-pressure tanks. This ease of handling is a key advantage for applications where mobility and logistical simplicity are important. Furthermore, with a widespread dealer network across Europe and beyond, EFOY Fuel Cartridges are readily available, making them a practical and accessible fuel choice for users in various regions.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What are the advantages of generating power with EFOY Fuel Cells compared to other power generators?

Knut Kallbach − Generating electricity

with EFOY Fuel Cells offers several advantages over other power generators. Solar panels for example only generate power when the sun is shining, EFOY Fuel Cells deliver consistent energy regardless of weather conditions. Conventional generators produce noise and exhaust emissions and their use is even restricted in some environments. In contrast, direct methanol fuel cells are both efficient and environmentally friendly, operating quietly and reliably. This makes EFOY Fuel Cells an ideal choice for backup power, providing a dependable energy source.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What can the caravaning industry expect from SFC in the upcoming years?

Ricarda Gauder − At SFC, our mission is to ensure a reliable, environmentally friendly energy supply wherever grid access is limited or non-existent, this will remain our primary focus in the years to come. With our proven expertise in energy solutions, we will continue to support OEMs and our dealer network in finding the perfect energy fit for their customers. Beyond that, we aim to tackle the growing challeng-

es related to power supply at remote campsites.

Given the record-high number of registered RVs, there’s an increasing demand for access to off-grid campsites—not only to allow RV owners to immerse themselves in nature but also to ease the pressure on traditional, overcrowded campgrounds. Our fuel cell energy solutions are perfectly positioned to provide reliable, environmentally friendly power for various campsite operations, including barrier controls, automated vehicle registration, lighting, and information displays, wherever grid access is lacking. Additionally, as hydrogen infrastructure continues to expand, we foresee hydrogen playing a larger role in the caravaning industry. With this growing infrastructure, more of our products will become accessible to a wider range of customers. We are excited to introduce this cutting-edge technology and further contribute to the industry’s sustainable future and we are happy to support anyone in this Industry with innovative energy concepts, whether it is mobile in a vehicle or stationary on the ground.

Butyl tapes complete H.B. Fuller’s adhesive portfolio

H.B. Fuller now has a full complement of adhesive solutions for the RV industry in the UK and Europe, thanks to its recent acquisition of HS Butyl, giving it another production facility in the UK. To find out more about why H.B. Fuller made this acquisition and the benefits this important addition adds to its adhesive portfolio, Aboutcamp BtoB spoke to Martin Clubley, Business Unit Director at HS Butyl and Ralf Fuhrmann, Business Director Global Transportation at H.B. Fuller

Words John Rawlings

The synergies from H.B. Fuller’s acquisition of HS Butyl in August 2024 are not limited to ‘just’ adding an important product to its range of adhesives. Aside from new technology and more efficient customer deliveries, both companies also benefit from the extensive experience in the adhesive and RV sector of its senior management thanks to Martin Clubley, Business Unit Director of HS Butyl and Ralf Fuhrmann, Business Director Global Transportation at H.B. Fuller, both working in this sector for more than 25 years.

Acquisition benefits for the customer

HS Butyl is the latest in a series of acquisitions by H.B. Fuller in recent years. Every business that’s joined H.B. Fuller has strengthened its product portfolio, expertise and market presence, with the result of being able to offer better and more comprehensive service to its customers around the world.

“As the biggest pureplay sealant and adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller has ambi-

tious growth plans both organically and through acquisitions, and we have been strategically buying businesses over the last few years,” said Ralf Fuhrmann.

“Acquisitions help us enter new regions or markets where we’re not yet active as well as close or improve technology gaps in our products or manufacturing techniques so we can offer the best range of sealant and adhesive solutions to our customers. We wanted to acquire HS Butyl because it not only improves our technology and product portfolio, but also expands our network with caravan and motorhome manufacturers in the UK,” Ralf Fuhrmann added.

Research and development

“There had been a lot of research done on the global market of Butyl tape before H.B. Fuller acquired our business,” said Martin Clubley. “They had already invested in a couple of other UK companies but wanted a stronger UK and European presence for Butyl tapes. We were working closely with our customers in the UK and invested in new technology for our factory and research and development laboratory to perfect a more efficient manufacturing process – including the mixing and extrusion – to meet our customers’ exact requirements,” he added.

HS Butyl is well-established in the UK caravan and motorhome sector

“There are a couple of great examples for compatibility of our butyl tapes in the production of a caravan or motorhome as the different sealant technologies combine together to provide a complete solution to maximise the efficiency of the manufacturing process and the requirements of the design of the product,” said Martin Clubley. “Yes, that is a very important point that

Martin has mentioned. There are different production and adhesive technologies used in RV production and butyl tape is the ‘last piece of the puzzle’ that was missing to make H.B. Fuller a total solution provider to the RV market,” said Ralf Fuhrmann.

Improving

delivery times and customer service

Prior to the acquisition, HS Butyl was solely active in the UK market but with H.B. Fuller’s strong network of custom ers in the RV industry (and several others) in Europe and globally there will be plenty of new opportunities to offer HS Butyl tapes to a wider customer base. Although H.B. Fuller already produces butyl tape in the USA, RV manufacturers there have different production techniques and different dimensions than in the UK and Europe, so now having HS Butyl’s manufacturing base in the UK means H.B. Fuller can produce exactly what OEMs want and improve the speed and efficiency of its deliveries to customers. “Butyl sealing tapes are widely used in the RV manufacturing around the world, and H.B. Fuller is already super successful in the U.S. market with the butyl tapes it produces there,” said Ralf Fuhrmann, “however, manufacturers in Europe require different dimensions for the butyl tape, such as the width, thickness, and single or double-sided butyl tape options, and prior to acquiring HS Butyl we were dependent on supplying Europe from our U.S. production. Having a UK pro-

Confidence in the future

Although butyl tape has been around a long time, there has been a lot of new technology developed to improve the quality and ease of use. “A good quality butyl tape has to stick quickly and have good longevity. Our butyl tape has excellent compatibility and flexibility to ensure it sticks to a wide variety of materials and creates a strong seal,” said Martin Clubley.

“In all the years that I’ve worked in adhesives for the caravan industry in Europe, I have seen a great deal of development in butyl tape technology, and I am very happy to have HS Butyl

duction facility now gives us much more flexibility in production and prototyping so we can be much more reactive to meet a customer’s needs,” he added.

“We know that offering production and delivery flexibility to minimise lead times is fundamental to the RV industry,” says Martin Clubley. “HS Butyl already has a good reputation for high quality materials and our customers seek advice from us,” he added.

Combined adhesive solutions

“HS Butyl works closely with our customers to develop the best solution using our expertise from a range of sectors. Most RV manufacturers use butyl tapes as well as sealant. They typically use our tape to seal around door frames, awning rails and frames for window and access lockers, and then cap off with a compatible sealant that cures,” says Martin Clubley.

“Sealants and adhesives are important technologies to use in RV production to avoid water ingress and butyl tape is the fastest solution to use – simply apply it and the job is done,” added Ralf Fuhrmann.

join the H.B. Fuller group as it completes our adhesive offerings to OEM RV producers,” said Ralf Fuhrmann. Looking to the future, Fuhrmann commented: “In addition, we want to investigate the aftermarket opportunities as butyl tape is an excellent product for consumers to use for repairs or DIY camper conversions, but above all one of the best synergies from our acquisition of HS Butyl is also bringing H.B. Fuller the full range of technologies to its customer base to provide a complete sealant and adhesive solution for European RV manufacturers.”

ompany news EURAMAX FOR MOBILITY

The next generation of aluminium in mobility

Euramax for Mobility is committed not only to improving the functionality of the products, but also to delivering innovation and added value to their customers, helping make holidays more comfortable, affordable, and sustainable

Aluminium has been in use in the industry for over 50 years.

Over that time, the industry has changed significantly, prompting an evolution in products as well. Euramax, who celebrates its 55th anniversary, has made product development a strategic priority, recently launching several innovations. One notable development is a new alloy, StrongLite, which helps customers reduce both weight and costs. This innovation has already been adopted by a major European brand across its entire vehicle range. Most recently, Euramax introduced SuperiorCoat, an advanced coating system that provides the highest scratch and UV resistance currently available. Euramax is also driving innovation

in the American market. In collaboration with forward-thinking brands, it introduced the first travel trailer models featuring seamless, flat aluminium sidewalls, offering an alternative to plastic and allowing brands to leverage the advantages of aluminium. The first models were unveiled at recent RV shows, receiving strong market interest. Additionally, Euramax has enhanced industry collaboration by developing training programs for U.S. dealerships, focusing on best practices for aluminium product repair. Recognizing a need for expert guidance, particularly for procedures widely used in the automotive sector, these training programs will expand into Europe starting in Q1 2025, helping the sector

Built to last: the unmatched benefits of aluminium

For over 50 years, Euramax for Mobility has specialized in coated aluminium, recently celebrating its 55th anniversary. As a leading supplier, Euramax has long viewed aluminium as the ideal material for building RVs. Aluminium’s advantages are numerous: it is infinitely recyclable, lightweight, and thus highly sustainable. It also offers excellent fire safety and lightning protection, combines durability with a high-end automotive finish, and retains its shine for decades due to Euramax’s best-in-class UV-resistant paint systems. With the introduction of SuperiorCoat, Euramax’s latest innovation, aluminium now also stands out as the most scratch-resistant material available, offering customers peace of mind on every journey.

work more effectively with aluminium. Looking ahead, Euramax has several innovations in the pipeline aimed at making the industry more circular and sustainable. A primary focus is on reducing material usage, which is essential to lowering environmental impact. To achieve this, Euramax is investing in the EcoLite product range, an embossed product that allows for the use of thinner materials (as low as 0.45 mm for sidewalls)

while maintaining strength. With a variety of patterns and design options tailored for exterior sidewalls and interior walls, EcoLite helps customers reduce material costs and environmental impact, supporting both their profitability and sustainability goals.

Closing the loop: introducing StrongLite with 80% recycled content

Euramax for Mobility is committed to more than just reducing material usage; the company also prioritizes advancing circular material solutions. Recently, Euramax achieved a significant milestone toward creating fully circular products. Over the past year, Euramax has worked closely with suppliers to develop innovative solutions, contributing to the aluminium industry’s push for circularity by increasing the use of recycled scrap materials. This shift not only benefits the environment but also reduces costs, as recycled aluminium requires considerably less energy than primary aluminium, allowing the industry to maintain affordability alongside sustainability. Euramax now brings this advancement to the RV industry with the upcoming launch of its StrongLite alloy, featuring 80% recycled content, scheduled for Q1 2025. This marks a substantial increase from the current 50% recycled content in StrongLite, achieving approximately a 40% reduction in carbon footprint. Initially, this alloy will be available to select customers, with plans to expand as the supply chain scales. This achievement represents a significant step toward Euramax’s goal of achieving 100% recycled aluminium content, and the company invites industry partners to join them in advancing this crucial shift.

A portfolio for every need

Euramax for Mobility provides a wide selection of aluminium alloys, dimensions, paint systems, and design options to meet diverse requirements and budgets. With this versatile portfolio, customers can leverage aluminium’s unique benefits, including its circularity, at any price point. The table below outlines Euramax’s offerings, underscoring the company’s dedication to supporting its customers.

Helping RV brands achieve their design vision

Following a challenging period, Dutch window manufacturing expert Polyplastic by Lippert is ready to offer its innovative solutions to more customers than ever before

Words David Guest

The company’s Innovation Director Antoine Steentjes and Operational Director Abdul Solh explain how.

Aboutcamp BtoB - It has been five years since Polyplastic became part of the Lippert group. How was the transition and how have things changed at the company?

Antoine Steentjes - If I look at previous experiences of being in a company that has been acquired by a bigger group or investment company, I had some trepidation at first. Especially because Lippert is an American company so it could be culturally different to what we are used to in Europe. But Lippert is different. Yes, it is a big company so there is different momentum, but one of the main things that is not just a gimmick but is true is the impressive core values in the company. Lippert takes care of its people with honesty and integrity –these are things that were quite familiar to us. In the end, it was quite natural. We

are now fully integrated into those core values, which is a nice framework for us to get all our people pointed in the same direction. That basis helps us to grow.

Abdul Solh - There are always some struggles and obstacles that you will face in terms of decision making in such a transition. In the first year, that took a bit of time to adjust to. But then that became much easier with time.

Aboutcamp BtoB - What is it that sets Polyplastic by Lippert apart from its competitors? What is it about your processes that stand out?

Antoine Steentjes - If you look at the product portfolio, we are very different from our major competitors. They mainly focus on producing series productions, so they develop a window series with a few dimensions and sell that to everyone who wants to have it. We have always been customer orientated. All the products we make are bespoke. They are usually highly specialised; we

often try to find the limits of what we technically can do for a customer to upgrade the look and feel of their RV. Every year we produce a few thousand uniquely different models in Plant 315, which is complicated to manage for production, but it gives us an advantage. If our customers want something special, they will come to us.

Abdul Solh - Our main focus is always the voice of the customer. We are able to make everything that is requested within the regulations of our design rules. We have always followed this strategy because it’s what makes the Polyplastic brand different. Our core business is developing acrylic windows, and we have many people working for us with 20, 30, or even 40 years of experience bringing so much expertise and passion to what we do.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Plant 315 has encountered some challenges in recent times, like most other manufacturers.

What challenges did you face and how have you overcome them?

Abdul Solh - As mentioned, moving from a family business to being part of a large, international organisation brought some struggles for our production facilities, especially because that change was quickly followed by Covid. During that time, we lost a lot of manpower, which was a common problem for the entire industry. After losing these experienced people and then seeing the rapid increase of demand in the caravanning market, it made things difficult to manage, with our complex mix of products. We had many new operators at that time, and it pushed our efficiency lower. Things were not how our clients expected them to be with Polyplastic by Lippert. After a period of struggle, we began a new project within the company called ‘Back on Track’, which was all about going back to the basics to help rebuild our processes. This project helped a lot with the training of colleagues from operators all the way up to the higher management – it helped us to regain our focus and made our production more sustainable and stable in terms of efficiency and capacity. Then we came up with the idea of an automation project.

Antoine Steentjes - We have been working on a lot of next-generation production processes. We have put our extensive in-house knowledge into creating a standardised and more automated production line. This was already something we were analysing in depth for the last five years, but the timing was never quite right. Now we are in a more stable and calmer situation, we can start building on that strong foundation. We are planning to make significant investments over the next years to get that automated line working. This will allow us to keep our current positioning even if we are located in a high inflation, high labour cost country like the Netherlands. It will also help us to organise better. We have a lot of experienced people on the floor, and we want those people to work on the more difficult, larger, and more complicated windows. The simpler tasks can then be automated.

Aboutcamp BtoB - It seems like this project will help you become more futureproof. For example, if you had this automation during Covid then maybe the impact would not have been as severe.

Antoine Steentjes - Yes, we are dependent on a big group of very experienced skilled workers. The windows we make are not an easy thing to automate the production of. Acrylic is not as stable and constant a material as some others to manipulate so there is still some craftsmanship needed to make it work. Automating the most critical steps of the production process will safeguard the know-how for future generations. There is so much in-house knowledge with our operators and engineers that helps to accelerate the automation project, we are confident we will be able to use that to make a big chunk of our weekly volumes automated.

Abdul Solh - On that point, we are us-

ing specific KPIs on ourselves as a management team to make sure we are achieving our goals in terms of supply chain, quality, and efficiency. We regularly measure these, and it has helped us stay on track. That’s why Polyplastic by Lippert has improved its performance again.

Aboutcamp BtoB - As well as using the knowledge of your experienced team to help create efficient and high-quality automated production processes, are you also using it to help nurture the next generation of young talent?

Antoine Steentjes - The older generation is proud of what they do and wants to invest a lot of time in it, gain knowledge, and perfect their skills. The younger generation may have a little less patience. They want to grow faster, and in our case, people need time to become a skilled pressing operator. These are complex jobs that you can’t learn in a week. We have started extensive training programs to train this next generation of operators to preserve the know-how achieved within the company over the past 70 years and build on that. Abdul Solh - It’s all about building an A-class team. The talent is already there with many of our younger team members, they just need to gain more experience. By automating some of the more standard tasks, it means highly skilled people can be challenged more. It also helps us keep the knowledge and the

LIPPERT

skills in-house. We are very focused on building a good culture that will attract the next generation of workers. This is also one of Lippert’s main goals. We have a leader on the factory floor who is responsible for culture and leadership, as people are central in our organisation. If someone has a problem, whether work or personal, they can approach that leader and work on finding solutions together. We also do many out-ofwork sporting activities to help build a stronger team.

Aboutcamp BtoB - Polyplastic by Lippert has a reputation for innovation in its field. Can you tell us a bit about past, present, and future innovations? And also, how do you showcase that innovation in a product category that can be seen as quite functional?

Antoine Steentjes - In terms of communicating on innovation, it’s tricky to do. If you look at a window, it often feels as a commodity, especially if it’s a side

window in a caravan. One of the main things where we can make a difference is on the front, roof and rear windows because these have increased functionality and also become important design elements of an RV. Our injection moulded framed windows Vista (as well as our window Piuma) are great examples of we have developed over the past few years. At present, we are running a new project in the background that we call ‘Next Generation Window’, in which we are looking at electrification, features that we believe will become more relevant in the future in terms of technological and environmental changes. But our main project now is about cost engineering – we started it about a year ago and the idea behind this is to question every component’s added value in the eyes of the end customer –reducing unnecessary overengineering in processes and parts. We have always been known for making things newer, nicer, better etc, but that also adds costs. Feedback from some customers has shown that not every element of our windows is important enough for them – nor for their customers – to pay for a premium. Everything is being re-examined, even components that we have been using for more than 25 years. It will be a more modern range of windows, with every part redesigned to be more functional and better looking while reducing the costs at the same time. After testing some of the first ideas, we have found significant potential to save our customers costs, while still delivering a great-looking window with high quality. In short, we are trying to apply all the knowledge that we have in-house to create a smarter, more cost-effective series production window.

Abdul Solh - This will allow us to compete at price points we have not pre-

viously been able to. Manufacturing in the Netherlands and producing our own acrylic here in the Netherlands does make our cost base slightly higher. However, we believe our supply chain is more reliable and other companies cannot compete with our experience and our knowledge. Our quality will remain high, but we are trying to achieve higher volumes and production optimisation to give better prices to our customers. Our commitment to quality is unwavering. At the next Caravan Salon in 2025, we aim to be competing at every single price point. Polyplastic by Lippert has always been considered a high-quality and high-price window producer, now our automation programme can help us to compete in the other market segments as well.

Aboutcamp BtoB - That’s a very focussed vision. In more general terms, what does the future look like for the company?

Antoine Steentjes - We are still very positive about growth. After the slight dip we experienced during Covid we did lose some of the trust with our customers, but we are back to our usual performances now. We want to continue to work together with our customers, current and new, to grow our relationships and grow our business together. We want to help them realise their design visions. And with new automation and the changes we have made, we got back our stability. The outlook is very healthy for Polyplastic by Lippert.

Abdul Solh - Any problems we may have experienced with efficiencies or capacities are finally behind us. Our quality remains high, and we are confident that Polyplastic by Lippert’s new generation of windows will bring a wave of innovation to the market.

Not just driver doors

Lippert’s operations at Plant 308 are growing, with new projects coming to life and continued investment in facilities and machinery focused on achieving the best cost-quality ratio

For Lippert, the production of doors for the RV sector is of primary importance, with Plant 308, located in Italy near Venice, playing a key role. The plant employs a strong team of people with long-standing experience.

“In Italy, there are two Lip pert facilities that produce doors: Plant 304 and Plant 308. Here at Plant 308, our core business is driver doors,” explains Daniele Scavazzon, General Manager of Lippert Europe – Plant 308. “These are the driver’s doors for integrated motorhomes.

options can be added, and further customisation can be carried out if necessary.

“Customisation is often essential for driver doors,” explains Daniele Scavazzon, “because the door itself must align with the dashboard design.”

Words Renato Antonini

invested in an automated system that applies sealant to the windows, aiming to increase efficiency while also improving quality.

We started in 2015 by manufacturing 1,000 doors per year, and now we produce over 4,000. We are also engaged in the production of entry doors for the German market, a market whose manufacturers demand a rather high level of quality,” he adds.

Driver doors and entry doors

As for entry doors, Plant 308 offers a variety of solutions. A unique, high-quality door with a descending window has also been developed. This door is customisable in various ways. The concept of customisation is fundamental for the production of driver doors, which represent the core business of Lippert’s Plant 308. A base driver door, once engineered, is ready for installation. However, various

However, there is another project related to driver doors. For customers who request doors with a high level of thermal break, a door with double glazing and a thermal break frame has been developed to offer significant energy savings.

Moreover, Lippert Plant 308 has also started operating outside the RV sector, collaborating with DoubleCool, a Dutch brand in the Lippert group, to produce doors for supermarket freezer counters.

Plant 308: facilities, machinery, and future goals

At Plant 308, investments have been made to create vertical warehouses, with another one set to be installed soon. The company has also

Daniele Scavazzon explains: “With the new sealing robot, we cut the production time in half, with greater safety for the staff, thanks to the zero balancer. But at its core, the professionalism of the people working in the company remains. Although Lippert is a multinational, each of its locations has its own unique characteristics: there are stories, and there are crafts that are preserved and valued. We didn’t move production to the Far East; it has remained here in Italy. Lippert has invested in this plant to make it grow.” The investments will also include the creation of a new, much larger plant, which is scheduled to be ready in August 2025. The new facility is located just a short distance from the current one, and the space will be expanded to over 5,000 square meters. This project aims to meet the growing market demands, ensuring the best cost-quality ratio. The German market is the primary reference, but Plant 308 is also keeping a close eye on the U.S. market, which is recovering and will offer many opportunities.

“Lippert manufactures doors in the United States at Plant 58, producing a higher number of units per year,” concludes Daniele Scavazzon. “However, we can offer the American market European style, which some manufacturers are interested in. Today, not only in Europe, we are facing a declining market, but we must invest to prepare for a recovery that will begin in the second half of 2025 and even more so in 2026. The end customer is asking for lower prices, but also for reliable products. Lippert’s goal is to invest in creating competitive products offered at the right price and with a high guarantee of reliability.”

news OFOLUX

50 years of constant growth

The expansion of the Italian plant is confirmation of the constant growth of the company, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024

Words Renato Antonini

The year 2024 is coming to a close, but it has been a really important one for OFOLux. The company celebrated its 50th anniversary and launched an ambitious program to expand its Italian office. An event was held a few months ago, during the summer, to celebrate the important milestone of half a century in the business. It was a symbolic moment to corroborate how the remarkable growth over the past decade is based on the solid foundations built in the past.

“Our family business began in 1974, with the founding of OFO for making accessories for buses, such as

handles, ashtrays and seat covers” , explained Cristina Oblatore, owner of OFOLux together with her brother Luca. “My brother Luca and I joined our father in the early 1990s and the company took the name OFOLux in 2001. The addition of ‘Lux’ to the original name clearly expressed the fact that our production had expanded to the field of lighting, especially interior lighting for vehicles, specifically buses, commercial vehicles and special vehicles, including motorhomes and camper vans”

Today, OFOLux operates in two areas: lighting for buses, RVs and SVs, and extruded interior components and plastic paneling for minibuses, buses, coaches, ambulances and special vehicles. OFOLux supplies products to almost all Italian RV manufacturers and several European and international manufacturers. Over the years, we’ve made many major investments in our production facilities and these investments have allowed us to meet the demands of the market. The original plant in Brunello (Varese, Italy) was integrated with the opening of a

new facility in Tunisia, located in an electronics industry manufacturing district, in 2009. A production site in Mexico was opened in 2015 to address the South American bus market more efficiently.

An increasingly large production site

A new warehouse will be added to the Italian facility in 2020, and an additional building was purchased last year and will be completed in 2024. Renovations to the original site, built in 2007, are well underway and are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

“We have made major investments in facilities and machinery to increase production and do in-house some operations that were previously outsourced” , said Cristina Oblatore. “The Brunello plant now has 12,000 square meters of indoor space. We have also employed more personnel and now 80 people work in Italy. Our production capacity will be more than double when we reach full capacity”

The new shed has an area of 6,000

square meters, so it effectively doubles the company’s indoor area. The machining department was moved here and expanded. New machinery has been installed to enable increased production. There are now two CNC machining centers for processing aluminum extrusions, punching, cutting and bending machines and a laser cutting machine. Work has also begun on the original shed, which will be completed within a few weeks. The renovated spaces will be dedicated in part to SMT electronic assemblies. This will expand our production capacity because these processes are already carried out in our plant in Tunisia. The renovated production area will also be dedicated to the assembly of lighting products (spotlights, ceiling lights and LED strips) for the RV and special vehicle sectors. Furthermore, a resin-coating department will also be created with special machinery. This process designed to protect the electronic part of the products from moisture

and dust. The production of plastic extrusions for the manufacture of interiors for buses and special vehicles, but also with interesting applications for recreational vehicles, will continue in the shed acquired in 2020.

“We have reorganized space, added new machinery and increased pro-

New products are coming soon

• R-Line

The new R-Line range was not officially presented at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf and is arriving on the market right now. This is a new series of polycarbonate extrusions and coextrusions integrated with LED strips, designed to be housed in cabinets, wall units and cabinets to create lines of light. They are robust (being made of polycarbonate) and reliable.

• Art. 190.

This is a new compact and robust outdoor ceiling light with a polycarbonate body and aluminum heat sink. The six Power LEDs ensure superior performance with 1500Lm at the minimum power of 8.6W.

• Art. 1000A

This recessed spot light capable of swiveling by 360° with a 20° tilt angle is ideal for illuminating specific areas

duction to consolidate our presence in the RV sector. Today, OFOLux is approaching the railway sector” , concluded Cristina Oblatore. “We will be launching a range of interior furnishings soon. It is an ambitious and complex operation because of the many certifications required in the rail passenger transport industry”.

due to its 30° focusing lens. It offers a light performance of 200Lm at a minimum power of 2.28W.

• Art. 2020A

Questo spot fisso offre una perThis fixed spotlight offers a light performance of 200Lm at a minimum power of 2.28W.

With a 30° focusing lens, it is ideal for illuminating specific areas.

• Art. Stilo

It is a reading spotlight with a flexible arm and touch switch. It is equipped with a USB-C (20W) and guarantees a light performance of 100Lm at a minimum power of 1.4W.

• Art. Ring

New wall or ceiling light fixture, made of polycarbonate, with diffused and uniform light. Two versions are available: 2.5W (Standard Light) and 7W (HighLight).

All products are R10-approved.

Company news SGUINZI

Status and innovation

Sguinzi has fielded many proposals recently. The company is appreciated for its innovative drive and the prestige conferred by its products

In just seven years of business in the RV industry, Sguinzi has become a major partner of many European manufacturers, and today 35% of its turnover, which is expected to exceed 15 million Euros in 2024, is in this segment. Sguinzi panoramic doors, windows, and roofs are installed in many motorhomes, caravans, and camper vans. The Italian company, based just outside Milan, is particularly known for its fine glass solutions. The initial appreciation has been continually followed up by new proposals, with a dynamism well-received by the customers’ design, purchasing, and production decision-making teams. Today the market is rather calm, and Sguinzi continues to grow by including new

product ranges and acquiring new customers.

“Sguinzi is recognized as the ideal partner for developing new projects because of our capable R&D team that brings together people with multidisciplinary experience gained in the various sectors in which the company operates”, explained Stefano Lovati, Sguinzi’s Chief Operating Officer.

“I am convinced that European manufacturers are looking for suppliers with Sguinzi’s characteristics, who are well-organized but not too large, that can ensure quality and reliability, but that are flexible, dynamic and collaborative at the same time. Sguinzi can guarantee all of this. We are still a family-run business headed by entrepre-

neurs who are involved directly and remain in direct contact with the customer. So decision-making processes are fast and changes are not a problem. New scenarios are also opening up for the future through strategic alliances with technology partners”.

Collaboration with Trigano and its brands across Europe has been well-established for years now. Other projects and recent collaborations with Giottiline and Rapido Group, Laika, Kabe and Concorde continue to grow. Interesting opportunities are developing in France, Germany and the UK, markets to which Sguinzi is looking very closely. More and more often, Sguinzi works alongside RV manufacturers on co-design projects, being

In partnership with

able to support clients’ designers and planners through its in-house design office.

The Fluideen concept

The Mobilvetta Fluideen concept vehicle presented by Trigano attracted considerable interest at recent European trade shows. Sguinzi was involved in the project supplying the glazed surfaces and the living pod door with an EDI electric opening system and the doors equipped with invisible hinges. The Fluideen is a laboratory for exploring more advanced applications applicable in the fairly near future. Trigano created this project and approached several trusted suppliers, including Sguinzi. One of the most innovative elements of the Fluideen are the glass surfaces equipped with the blackout system using PDLC (switchable film, or smartfilm) technology. With these windows, conventional sliding blinds

are no longer needed because the surfaces are as transparent as glass in normal mode, but they become tinted, protecting privacy, at the push of a button. The glazing can also be turned into a high-resolution display, opening up unprecedented scenarios and new vehicle configurations. With solutions like these, Sguinzi is confirmed as an ideal partner for manufacturers who choose to introduce glass in their productions, being able to provide support in working out the best solutions, including thinner, lighter-weight glass. The doors with invisible hinges applied on the Fluideen capitalize on the many years of experience. Not by chance, it was with these systems that Sguinzi made a name for itself early on in the RV industry. The door with EDI electric opening system, on the other hand, launched on the market in 2022, has one button (illuminated) on the outside handle and two buttons (open/ close) on the passenger compartment side. It can be paired with a remote control.

Ergost 2.0

of glass. The Ergost 2.0 system complements the tried-and-tested Ergost (widely used on Adria, Laika, Concorde, and Kabe models) and also uses the ergonomic rotary knob as the user interface. However, the mechanism has been improved and made even more ergonomic and user-friendly, and designers have also worked to implement water-tightness and greatly reduce wind noise while driving. This is the result of the new weatherstrip system and a movement that amplifies the compression of the glass while still maintaining a remarkable smoothness of movement. Ergost 2.0 can be combined with either single or double glazing and can be equipped with electric movement, for application on top-of-the-line motorhomes. Sguinzi is also studying integration with anti-theft systems. Solid and reliable, Ergost 2.0 is certified for up to 100,000 opening and closing cycles.

Sguinzi’s product range is being complemented with a new opening system for motorhome windows. It is a revamped version of the popular Ergost system, which provides special mechanisms for opening and closing co-driver flush side windows made

Panoramic roofs

Visitors to the Caravan Salon saw the new insulated glass panoramic roofs mounted on several Adria production camper vans, particularly the Twin Sports and Twin Supreme models, and the top-of-the-line Supertwin. The Sguinzi range of panoramic roofs, the ideal connection between the windshield and the vehicle roof, is now ready to equip all the mechanical bases used to equip camper vans: Fiat Ducato, Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, MAN TGE and Volkswagen Crafter. The design of a variant with an electric opening function is at an advanced stage. It is in the panoramic glass roof market segment that Sguinzi has experienced the greatest growth in the past three years. More and more manufacturers have requested solutions to fit their models, and Sguinzi’s proposals are suitable for camper vans, low-profile models, motorhomes and caravans.

A masterpiece of coolness

At the end of August 2024, Truma presented the 2nd generation of its Aventa series of roof-mounted air conditioning systems with three new models, Aventa compact, compact plus and comfort. This new generation is not only ‘Made in Germany’, but also features innovative technology for use in recreational vehicles. This includes a practical design for installation and attachment as well as very customer-friendly ease of use. The models will be available from January 2025

Words Peter Hirtschulz

Truma Geraetetechnik is one of the most traditional and innovative companies in the caravanning industry. Founded in 1949, all Truma products are based on decades of experience in product development, which not only meets the needs of OEM customers, but also the accessories trade and, above all, the wishes of campers.

The Aventa series of Truma roof-mounted air conditioning systems are a very good example of this. The currently presented 2nd generation with the three models Aventa compact, Aventa compact plus and Aventa comfort pres ent exemplary innovations. Truma attaches great im portance to the fact that all Aventa products are ‘Made in Germany’, from initial planning, final devel opment, practice-orientated testing and inspection proce dures to design and final series produc tion.

the revised Night Mode, ensures quiet nights. The newly developed air distributors also act as a design element in the vehicle.

Cooling capacity

The cooling capacity of the 2nd generation models with the power levels 1700 W (Aventa compact), 2200 W (Aventa compact plus) and 2500 W (Aventa comfort) is outstanding. Thanks to an integrated heat pump, the units can both cool and heat.

The lower overall weight is worth emphasising. By utilising the latest technology, a weight reduction of up to 18% has been achieved compared to the previous models. In addition, the infinitely variable inverter compressor ensures outstanding cooling performance and, in combination with

Weight

As mentioned above, the low weight is remarkable: the individual systems weigh 23.2 / 24.2 / 28.7 kilograms including the indoor air distributor. Compared to the previous generation, which were already the lightest systems of their kind, this results in a weight reduction of up to 5 kilograms. The dimensions of the individual models also have a weight-reducing effect. They are designed to be so compact that they can also be easily mounted on the roof of a leisure vehicle in combination with satellite systems and solar modules.

Technology

The new models boast remarkable technical innovations. Due to the new infinitely variable inverter compressor and the new infinitely variable indoor fan, a customised comfort temperature is always guaranteed. The compressor is automatically regulated as required. For more quietness at night, there is the improved Night Mode, with which the system ensures a particularly low-noise, pleasant cooling. If it does get too chilly, the integrated heating function guarantees pleasant temperatures. The systems are also characterised by a low starting current. With a maximum power consumption of 5 amps, none of the systems exceed a maximum value of 6 amps and therefore always guarantee a reliable power supply without fuses blowing, even on campsites with very low fuse protection. Technology also includes the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants. According to European regulations, refrigerants must not exceed a GWP value of ‘150’ from 2027. GWP is the abbreviation for ‘Global Warming Potential’ and stands for the global warming potential of a substance. The GWP value of a refrigerant defines its relative global warming potential in relation to CO₂ (also known as CO₂ equivalent). Truma uses a product labelled ‘R290’, which already guarantees a value of ‘3’ instead of “150”!

Design and air distributor

In both colour variants, black or white, the systems on the roof have a modern, elegant design. However, they not only

air distributors are available in the colour variations ‘cappuccino’ and ‘stone’ as standard. However, they can also be customised with foil. This means that every manufacturer or retrofitter can design the units to match their interior design concept. Technically, with the small 45 mm thickness, the interior air distributors are also designed to be very space-saving in order to maintain the clearance height of the recreational vehicle. In addition to the basic Aventa air distributor, there is also the Aventa Premium air distributor. These differ in the Premium version with integrated dimmable LEDs for a pleasant lighting ambience and air outlets with a greater number of adjustment options.

A Bluetooth remote control makes operating the models child’s play. Control is also possible via one of the panels from the Truma iNet X sys tem, as well as via the App of the same name. The 2nd genera

Alde launches its first diesel heater

It’s been a while in coming but Alde’s first ever diesel-powered boiler, the Compact 4000 D, has certainly been worth the wait. In common with Alde’s LPG powered heater, it combines hot water and hydronic space heating in a compact, lightweight package

Stefan Lindstrom MD, Alde International Systems AB said “We were well aware of the demand for this product but we wanted to ensure that we ended up with a boiler worthy of our name. Diesel burners can be noisy and

smelly and these were issues we were keen to avoid. The unique selling point of our burner is that it is stepless, which helps greatly with these issues”.

It’s fact that most of the smells associated with a diesel burner occur during the start-up and stop phases. By making the burner stepless the output can be closely matched to the demand, eliminating the need for constant starting and stopping. To this end Alde’s burner is stepless all the way from 1 kW to its full output of 6 kW.

The burner has been developed in close cooperation with sister company Truma, who already have considerable diesel experience with their Combi D heater. When

switching on from cold, it takes 480 seconds to reach 6 kW. This is achieved by starting at 2 kW for 120 seconds and then smoothly ramping up from 2 to 6 kW in a further 360 seconds. If required, it can then reduce back to 1 kW in 240 seconds. When warm, the burner can increase its output by 50 W per second.

Burning made for different diesel options

Lindstrom continued “We also wanted to ensure that our burners have a long service life and can run efficiently on the wide range diesel fuels that are now to be found at filling stations.”

Dimensions and weight

The dimensions and weights of the diesel models are very similar to those of the LPG models although the depth

All the usual Alde advantages

The Compact 4000 D boiler comes with all the usual advantages of its LPG siblings. There are no compromises arising from its diesel burner:

Dual fuel

Electric heating is standard with 1 to 3 kW available via inbuilt heating elements. These can be used at the same time as the main burner to give a total output of 9 kW. What’s more, it’s easy to prioritise and choose the energy source so it fits with what is available.

Plenty of hot water

The standard version come with a 10-litre hot water tank while the ‘Plus’ version is capable of delivering continuous hot water at up to 4 litres per minute. This means you can have unlimited showers, assuming sufficient supply water.

Silent & efficient convection-based heating

Hydronic heating using Alde’s convection-based radiators leads to silent and efficient performance.

Zone control option

The Compact 4000 D boiler can be installed to operate a two-zone system, for example where the bedroom area is set to a lower temperature, while the lounge area can have a higher temperature.

Compatible with Truma AC

As you might expect the Compact 4000 D is fully compatible with Truma’s air conditioning units to give full climate control from one panel.

Solid temperature control

Alde’s new, refined, Intelligent Temperature Control (ICT) uses smart logic and logarithms to provide smooth, effective temperature transitions. The boiler calculates whether it needs to raise output or not to achieve the selected temperature. It never uses more power than necessary.

has increased a little. Nevertheless, it should be easy for OEMs to offer either technology and for retro-fits to be possible. Combining punchy performance with its small size means the Compact 4000 D is ideal for a wide variety of vehicles from small panel vans to the bigger liners. Like its gas-powered siblings it easily fits under a standard bunk.

Fluing requirements

The Compact 4000 D operates via a concentric balanced flue terminating on the side of the vehicle, similar to that used for Alde’s LPG powered heaters.

Vehicle fuel tank supply

The Compact 4000 D boiler can be installed to use fuel from the vehicle’s main tank, making it ideal for long distance touring and winter use.

Minimal service requirements

All diesel burners require regular ser-

vicing to maintain optimum performance but Alde’s stepless technology should ensure that this is minimal. Nevertheless, to be on the safe side, an annual inspection and clean is recommended. As with other Alde boilers it is also recommended that the glycol antifreeze is changed at 5-year intervals (assuming use of Alde Premium G12 EVO or equivalent).

Automatic high-altitude mode

The burner automatically adjusts its combustion parameters to cope with high altitudes which is a valuable feature for anyone planning to spend time in mountainous regions, ensuring the heater works safely and efficiently no matter what the elevation.

Availability

The Compact 4000 D will become available to OEMs during first quarter of 2025.

Conclusion

This boiler plugs a long-standing gap in the market for RV builders who want to incorporate the comfort of Alde heating into their motorhomes and campers whilst reducing the reliance on LPG which, in Autogas form at least, is getting increasingly difficult to get. Operating from the vehicle’s fuel tank means a single fill up will take care of propulsion and off-grid heating, leaving LPG just for cooking purposes. It should be a big hit.

Company news MPK

Open. Close. Good.

For 50 years, the German company MPK has specialised in rooflights for recreational vehicles. As ‘The Rooflight Specialists’, the experts have a clear philosophy: not to be good at many things, but to be the best at one

“We produce what our customers need: easy-to-install rooflights that fit both old and new motorhomes, that can be opened and closed countless times with ease, that keep noise out but let light and air in,” says Emanuel Bessmann, owner and managing director of MPK. The 35-year-old is the third generation of his family to run the company and is convinced: “Sometimes less is more, which is why our rooflights don’t need complicated technology or countless features. True to our motto ‘Open. Close. Good.’ we focus instead on robust quality without frills, which makes it easy for our customers to make their choice”.

A dream team: VisionStar L and VisionStar M

The best example of this is the VisionStar rooflight range - MPK’s dream team for all fans of mobile travel. Manufactured from impact-resistant tinted polycarbonate glass, both models are extremely durable and have a flat design. The two models, L (700 x 500 mm) and M (400 x 400 mm), also match perfectly in terms of appearance. “The smaller VisionStar M is the optical twin of the larger VisionStar L. It simply looks more harmonious and much more styl-

min Bessmann, who runs the company with her husband. Another advantage of the VisionStar combination is that the stepless opening and closing works the same way for both rooflights - so it can be done quickly and without having to switch to a different system.

Perfect indoor climate at the touch of a button

With a new development for the VisionStar L panorama rooflight, MPK opened excellent prospects for the future at this year’s Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf: the largest rooflight in the range will provide an even more comfortable way to

improve the ambience in the vehicle, as it opens and closes smoothly, gently, quietly and in a matter of seconds at the touch of a button. It lets light and air into the motorhome effortlessly, making camping a real pleasure. The VisionStar L is also available as an electric version with dimmable, energy-saving LEDs in the inner frame.

Even when on holiday, the Bessmann entrepreneurial couple’s passion for rooflights continues unabated. “In our spare time we like to go on tour with our camper van and of course we can’t take our eyes off the roofs of other motorhomes,” says Gülsemin Bessmann with a smile. “It is through our own experience and direct interaction with other camping enthusiasts that we are gaining a better understanding of the needs that a rooflight has to meet.”

A reliable partner

“Whether you are a leisure vehicle manufacturer, dealer or DIY enthusiast, MPK is all about partnership”, managing

MPK modular system for total flexibility

Rooflights increase the comfort in caravans and motorhomes: used and humid air escapes naturally - light and fresh air ensure a pleasant indoor climate. What stays outside: UV rays, noise and insects.

MPK rooflights fit any vehicle - and thanks to the flexible modular system, they leave nothing to be desired: all rooflights in the 400 x 400 mm and 280 x 280 mm series are interchangeable. Replacement rooflights can be easily fitted to an existing outer frame. The same applies to MPK internal frames. All MPK rooflights in detail: www.mpk-rooflights.com

director Emanuel Bessmann says. “Our experience and commitment have made us a trusted expert in the industry over the decades. We want to continue this tradition in the future and make it as easy as possible for our partners.” So, long waits, endless queues or changing contact persons are not to be found at MPK. “We like to keep things informal, but at the same time we attach great importance to professionalism and reliability,” says Gülsemin Bessmann, describing MPK’s corporate philosophy.

Having manufactured millions of rooflights, the ‘rooflight specialists’ know exactly what to look out for in terms of product and production. MPK’s experts support their customers right from the development stage, enabling them to optimize design and construction for production at CAD level. Before going into production, the company provides dimensionally accurate prototypes in true-to-life quality. And to ensure that things move quickly after approval, MPK has the specialist on site to manufacture the appropriate injection molding tool.

“Family Business”

This value-oriented approach has always characterized MPK as a medium-sized company and is particularly important to Emanuel Bessmann - especially in view of current developments in the industry: “Mobile travel is booming more than ever. For manufacturers and retailers, howev-

Gülsemin and Emanuel Bessmann enjoy travelling in their camper van

er, this demand means that they must rethink. The ingrained concept of manufacturing in our industry is standing in the way of sales pressure and increasing efficiency. It is important to us that these pressures do not come at the expense of our values and our commitment to sustainability: quality is more important than price, and efficiency is only good if the result does not suffer. That’s why, when we try something new, we carefully consider whether it’s worth the effort and investment. And above all, whether it will create sustainable value for our customers.” It is no coincidence that MPK rooflights are fitted in many of the world’s best-known vehicles - after all, where good quality is required, specialists are in demand.

Company news FILIPPI 1971

Five continents, one global market

Thanks to the strengthening of the sales network, the company can better face various markets on a global scale, also focusing heavily on trade fairs

In recent months, Filippi 1971 has affirmed its presence in numerous markets and in various ways. The Italian company, which has been committed in the production of different types of panels for vehicle furnishings for almost 25 years, reaffirmed its activity at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, but has also made itself known at new trade fairs in the sector. Not only that: to improve customer service, it has strengthened its sales network in specific areas, so as to demonstrate greater proximity to its business partners.

“To manage future challenges, we have increased our presence in various markets,” says Francesca Filippi, International Sales Manager of Filippi 1971, “such as Eastern Europe, Australia and South America. Our goal is to create a capillary

structure around the world and I also consider participation in trade fairs to be fundamental.”

Australia: consolidated presence

Australia is one of the most important markets for Filippi 1971, where the Italian company has had business relationships for many years, but it has been operating directly with a direct commercial subsidiary, Filippi 1971 Pty, based in Melbourne since 2021. Among the short-term plans is the opening of a second distribution centre in Sydney and the participation, in 2025, in the Caravan Industry Victoria RV Expo in Melbourne dedicated to RV components. On the other hand, the workforce

has also been strengthened, with the inclusion of Robert D’Souza, a strategic figure with great experience in the laminated panel sector, who has just started his cooperation teaming with the Australian Operations Manager Nick Calandriello. Thanks to D’Souza, Filippi 1971 will be able to guarantee even greater proximity to Australian customers.

“I am excited to explore all the potentialities that Filippi have,” states Robert D’Souza, Sales Manager of Filippi 1971 Pty, “and I look forward to introducing these opportunities into the Australian market. Joining the dynamic Filippi team at this stage of my career feels rewarding

and I am confident we will grow and consolidate our position in the RV industry as a primary panel supplier in Australia”.

Greater Europe and South America

After consolidating its leading presence in Italy and growing its position in France and Germany in recent years, Filippi 1971 has tackled the UK market since the end of 2022, thanks to an agreement with the local distributor Scan Térieur and the participation in the NEC in Birmingham Caravan Camping & Motorhome Show. The company can offer various products and production flexibility that becomes extremely important precisely in a market like the UK, where large manufacturers and small converters coexist.

As far as trade fairs are concerned, in addition to the incisive presence at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, 2024 saw the participation of Filippi 1971 in the first edition of Fit Your Camper, an Italian event dedicated exclusively to accessories and components in the RV sector. It

Splashbacks

was a valuable opportunity both for professional meetings with retailers and large-scale retail operators, and for direct contact with the public. While waiting to participate in the second edition of Fit Your Camper in 2025, the company reaffirms its commitment on two levels, with supplies to OEMs, but also to distributors for the aftermarket.

In addition, the presence of Filippi 1971 at the Caravans Salon Poland 2024, which was held in Poznań from 3 to 6 October 2024, was decidedly significant as well. It is an important event, which reaffirms Poland’s entry into the vast European RV market. “In the RV sector, the border between East and West Europe is no longer Slovenia, an always growing market for us, but has become Poland,” continues Francesca Filippi, “the main country to have a historic and significant production of RV that has expanded in recent years, also with the creation of plants of large foreign manufacturers. It is therefore essential to be present in Poland at this stage”. Filippi 1971 can count on a local agent and, although it does not have a warehouse in Poland yet, the company has organized logistics in order to work on flawless just-in-time deliveries.

Less than two years ago Filippi 1971 launched splashbacks on the Australian market and the success was remarkable, so much so that these products have also been selling on the European market with excellent results. It is a 3 mm sheet of VittEr (the fine HPL laminate produced by Filippi 1971), to be applied to the walls of the kitchens or in the bathroom areas. Its functionality is twofold: it protects the wall from splashes and stains from the stove and sink, but also bear a high aesthetic value. VittEr is very suitable for this application because it does not absorb water, is easily washable and is heat resistant, but it is also food-grade and formaldehyde-free. Thanks to Filippi 1971’s digital printing service, a great variety of patterns and textured can be offered, as well as a very trendy 3D tile-effect, achievable through the customizable layering of the core material. “Our splashbacks in VittEr are versatile products, – affirms Francesca Filippi, International Sales Manager of Filippi 1971 – capable of creating unexpect-

“The Poznań fair allowed us to strengthen the direct relationship with our Polish customers, having a dedicated meeting point available,” says Alice Traina, Area Sales Manager at Filippi 1971 for the markets of Slovenia and Poland and for emerging manufacturers throughout Eastern Europe. “The Polish market is apparently limited but certainly developing and with strong potential. The fair also allowed us to reach a new range of medium and small manufacturers who were pleased to have direct access to our wide product range: doors, shower platforms, kitchen tops, complete kits are a great complement to the laminated panels for which we are already known and appreciated. It is a confirmation of our strategy of market penetration at multiple levels and with multiple products”.

Finally, Filippi 1971 has also been introduced in South America thanks to the local distributor Verzet, very active in Brazil and Argentina through local trade fairs. “South America is still a small market for RVs, but it definitely looks promising,” concludes Francesca Filippi, “and thanks to our distributor we will be able to support local manufacturers with our fully comprehensive range of products for the furniture construction”.

ed aesthetic effects. They have a good value-for-money ratio and very flexible MOQs and lead-time. They are perfect for both vehicle manufacturers and workshops that are involved in the modernisation of older motorhomes”.

Exploring emotions

The new Lamicolor decor collection is here with the invaluable tool on which the famous Caravan Collection, which has been offered to RV manufacturers for 25 years, is based

Words Renato Antonini

Lamicolor has presented the new 2024-2027 collection and is expected to be the reference tool for the furniture industry and for finding contemporary solutions for laminates. The RV sector is one of Lamicolor’s key focus areas and here is the Caravan Collection, with specific propositions for the motorhome and caravan world. Lamicolor is among Europe’s biggest manufacturers of HPLs (high-pressure laminates) and a leader in the RV industry. The many applications of Lamicolor laminates in RVs include horizontal kitchen and table tops and various vertical surfaces such as doors, walls and de-

tails in the toilet and kitchen areas.

“Advanced technical solutions and aesthetically trendy proposals are the strengths of Lamicolor”, said Pierre Cibrario, sales manager of Lamicolor.

“They have been reasserted in the 20242027 collection resulting from a clever selection of decors on superior-quality structural high-pressure laminates. We have been making HPLs for more than 50 years and have constantly perfected our products from a technological point of view, but it is the continuous research on decors that sets us apart. New colors, new effects, innovative and trendy solutions. All our collections are based

on creative research to predict the decors that will be the most popular in the market”

Lamicolor collection of decors is refreshed every four years and applied to all the sectors in which the company operates offering a wide choice of available proposals to customers. Researching, selecting and preparing the catalog takes time and some “last minute” ideas may be launched after a collection has been created. That is why the Lamicolor 2024-2027 Collection box contains a folder called “News 2024,” containing the very latest trends. The 2024-2027 Collection is truly comprehensive and

The Caravan Collection

Dedicated specifically to the RV sector, the Caravan Collection is presented every year and showcases proposals specifically created for the interior design of caravans, motorhomes and camper vans. The Lamicolor range is designed to help customers choose the finishes that best suit RV interiors. The proposals integrate several solutions picked from the Lamicolor Collection with others specific to decorative paper suppliers. For the past twenty-five years, Lamicolor has marketed a specific collection for RVs, a clear sign of its focus on the industry and its customers. Customers look forward to the tool every year, knowing that the fate of a new vehicle line depends on choosing the right laminate.

“The Caravan Collection is a key for our customers helping them speed up the decision-making processes before kicking off production” , Pierre Cibrario, sales manager at Lamicolor, explained.

“We send the box with our proposals to designers, managers and purchasing managers of RV manufacturers and furniture makers”.

Plus laminates

Below, the Plus features: available on all the collection • in all Lamicolor formats • anti-fingerprint • soft touch • ultramatt • microscratch repairability • scratch resistant • postforming

Plus is the name of Lamicolor’s flagship product. First launched in 2019, it is the result of expert technological research. Plus laminate is high performing. It is ultra mat, smudge-proof, scratch-proof, post-forming, soft touch and remarkably elastic. It comes in a wide range of decors, basically everything Lamicolor offers. It is also available in a wide range of sizes and thicknesses. It can be used for both vertical and horizontal surfaces and has interesting applications in the RV sector, where high-end solutions are sought.

features the trendiest solid colors, stone and marble effects, metallic effects, ultra matte finishes and more.

“When presenting the collection, I like to talk about the ‘poetry’ of the proposition because it goes beyond func-

tionality – beyond being a plain and simple catalog – to convey emotions by creating special combinations, clever choices and exciting ideas that are always the result of careful consideration however ‘risky’ they may sometimes

appear”, continued Pierre Cibrario. “The decors field is vast and with our Collection we want to provide a tool to help customers find what they are looking for. Our careful selection benefits our customers”. Above: News 2024

Compact Top Kitchen

Lamicolor also offers the Compact Top Kitchen, dedicated to the kitchen and table area to make work easier for customers. This is a selection of trendy decors for laminates that can be used for kitchen tops and tables, as well as kitchen splashbacks. The tool has undergone many interesting developments and received excellent customer feedback in recent years.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2024

Good business results and an outstanding mood

Düsseldorf confirms position as world-leading location for the caravanning and camping industry

Happy faces among visitors and exhibitors marked the ten days of CARAVAN SALON 2024. “The heart of the caravanning and camping industry beats with us in Düsseldorf. No other trade fair location worldwide unites the interests of manufacturers, dealers and visitors as perfectly as CARAVAN SALON. Positive midsummer vibes prevailed throughout our exhibition halls and

outdoor space. This optimis tic mood also had a very positive impact on the business deals concluded by our exhibitors. Visitors praised the unique, personalised advice and information at the stands. Accordingly, the very large majority of the 778 exhibi-

Words editorial staff

tors reported excellent sales. Once again, more than 250,000 people from 69 countries visited our exhibition centre in order to experience caravanning close up. We also view the high visitor attendance levels as a confirmation of the successful collaboration

2024 EDITION

Exhibitors 778

Visitors over 250,000

Halls 16

between exhibitors, the Caravaning Industrie Verband and our trade fair company,” sums up Marius Berlemann, Managing Director at Messe Düsseldorf and adds: “Caravanning is a perfect fit for today’s world and stands for a flexible as well as attractive form of travelling. It embodies freedom, individuality and proximity to nature.”

CARAVAN SALON has developed into a relevant dialogue platform and forum for the exchange with political and tourism decision-makers. The conference series ‘Destination Future’, which is specifically tuned to needs of camping travel destinations and tourist regions, really struck a nerve with experts and specialists. Attractive special shows and a varied stage line-up for both those starting out and seasoned camping fans perfectly rounded off the CARAVAN SALON ranges and were met among visitors with great enthusiasm. It is particularly positive to note that many specialists and experts also travelled from Asia, Australia, South America and the USA to Düsseldorf and to gather information on the novelties and innovations of the sector.

trend can be promoted further in future.

For its 63rd edition of CARAVAN SALON Messe Düsseldorf again offered an ideal stage for the impressive lineup of products and services – not least due to an optimised hall concept. This trade fair concept went down very well with visitors because caravans and motorhomes are products that people wish to see, touch and experience – creating a deep emotional connection. Special thanks go to the exhibitors who not only attended in record figures but also brought an unrivalled selection of products and innovations to Düsseldorf this year again. In view of the difficult economic and political circumstances that industry and trade had to work under in the most recent past, this cannot be taken for granted and shows once again that the caravanning sector is perfectly able to deal with the challenges of our times. This means CARAVAN SALON also confirms its role as the lighthouse of the industry again this year,” says CIVD President Bernd Löher summing up.

Bernd Löher, President of the Caravaning Industrie Verband (CIVD), was very satisfied with the course of the trade fair: “The biggest CARAVAN SALON ever has more than fulfilled the high expectations. Registering above a quarter of a million visitors, the exhibition halls and out door premises were very busy and the mood among the trade fair visitors was positive throughout. The good visitor numbers impressively underline the unabated enthusiasm for mobile holidays. One look at the exhibition centre sufficed to realise that the caravanning community is extremely varied uniting people from all age groups and social classes. In addition, the trade fair again attracted important individuals from politics, business and science, who learnt more on site about how caravanning has already developed into an indispensable driver for business and tourism in Germany and how this positive

CARAVAN SALON 2024 saw a record number of 778 exhibitors from 35 countries present recreational vehicles, equipment and accessories catering to every taste and budget in 16 halls and on the outdoor premises. Alongside motorhomes, caravans and camper vans the line-up included vehicle technology, components and attachments, tents, mobile homes, caravanning and camping accessories & equipment, outdoor apparel and gear, tourism destinations as well nature regions, campsites and RV pitches.

The majority of CARAVAN SALON exhibitors were also very satisfied:

“CARAVAN SALON was a resounding success. Visitor numbers in our halls and the interest taken in our products exceeded expectations. We are very pleased with the positive feedback from our dealers and customers.

CARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf provides us with the ideal conditions to present ourselves and to inspire more people with our innovative products and for this exciting type of holiday-

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2024

ing,” sums up Gerd Adami

etzki, Chief Sales Officer at Knaus Tabbert

Dr. Holger Siebert, Managing Director of Eura Mobil GmbH and Trigano Deutschland KG:

“Many exhibitors travelled to this year’s CARAVAN SALON and were sceptical about the overall economic situation and motorhome enthusiasts’ willingness to invest. These concerns were refuted: the customers came and purchased. The poor availability of previous years and the scarcity of vehicles are a thing of the past, which had an easing effect on price levels. Motorhomes have not become more expensive. This attractive price situation and the numerous visitors have resulted in higher sales for nearly all ten Trigano Haus brands. The premium brand Eura Mobil registered particularly high sales of the new products, the Xtura long-distance motorhome and the new integrated Integra Line GT on a Mercedes chassis”.

extensive fittings we succeeded in convincing many motorhome customers. In the caravan segment our brand Beachy thrilled young customers with new features and great colours. The proven Hobby caravan portfolio in turn went down very well with many camping en thusiasts. Together with our sales partners we look back on ten successful days. Our special thanks go to the entire team of Messe Düsseldorf, without whose flawless organisation this success would not have been possible.”

Hymer

GmbH & Co.

“We look back on an accomplished start to the season at this year’s CARAVAN SALON. As manufacturers we at Hobby are delighted – like our dealers – that so many buyers will soon be on the road with their new Hobby caravan or motorhome,” says Holger Schulz, Sales Manager at Hobby, and adds: “With new exterior design and

mands and aroused great interest in our innovations. We develop RVs with creative ideas and forward-looking concepts that perfectly meet camping fans’ expectations. As the world-leading trade fairs for mobile travelling CARAVAN SALON provides us with an ideal platform for in-depth exchange with potential buyers, dealers and partners. Here, we were able to bring our vehicles to life and gain valuable insights into future developments.”

KG takes stock of a thoroughly positive CARAVAN SALON 2024 for their brands Hymer and Eriba. Christian Bauer, Chairman of the Board, stresses: “We look back on a successful trade fair. The consistently high footfall and excellent atmosphere testify to the unbroken interest in mobile travel ling and our vehicles. In many of our conversations the focal themes of self-sufficiency, furnishings, design and functionality crystallised as key customer interests. Our trade fair motto ‘Travel the Difference’ homed in on these de-

Bernd Wuschack, Managing Director Sales, Marketing and Customer Service at the Carthago Group: “Summing up, we can look back on a positive CARAVAN SALON this year. The challenges have not become any easier over the past twelve months, which is why we came to Düsseldorf with mixed feelings. But we continue registering very high levels of interest in caravanning as a form of holiday and in our products. Our innovations like the Malibu genius and both the Carthago chic e-line and the C2-tourer were of particular interest to visitors in Hall 16. In addition, we are delighted at the good overall sales result. This motivates us and gives our trade partners the necessary momentum for the important

post-fair period. The excellent cooperation with Messe Düsseldorf and optimum framework conditions were the guarantee for positive trade fair results.”

Marco Lange, Managing Partner of La Strada Fahrzeugbau GmbH: “We welcomed a very high-quality clientele who were, however, not quite as decisive as in previous years. We are very satisfied with visitors’ very strong interest and the economic result of our trade fair appearance is also satisfactory overall for la strada.”

Alexander Wottrich, Co-CEO of Truma Group and Markus Heringer,

Managing Director Customer, Operations & Services of Truma Gerätetechnik : “Great conversations, high visitor attendance and a positive mood – this is what this year’s CARAVAN SALON in Düsseldorf meant for us. Camping as a form of holiday is just as popular as before and this can be clearly felt at the professionally organised trade fair in Düsseldorf. We feel that visitors come to find out about innovations, but service is also an import ant factor. For Truma, this Salon was a very special one because we not only launched new products such as the 2nd generation of our Aventa rooftop air-con systems, but also celebrated our 75th company anniversary. Thanks very much to Messe Düsseldorf for the great surprise and the birthday cake.”

Ute Dicks, Managing Director of the German Hiking Association (DWV): “By moving the Travel & Nature area to Hall 7, CARAVAN SALON has significantly increased the visibility of outdoor options for hiking and cycling paired with camping and caravanning bringing these closer to trade fair visitors. The extensive conference programme entitled ‘Destination Future 2024’ – featuring specialist expertise from the German Hiking Association and cooperation partners – was also presented for the first time. Sustainability, digitalisation, climate change and the challenges facing hiking trails and hosts along the way were discussed from a variety of perspectives and illuminated in a creative way. A special occasion for the German Hiking Association was the 20th anniversary of the ‘Wanderbares Deutschland’ quality trail, which was appropriately celebrated in Düsseldorf. Many thanks to Messe Düsseldorf and all those who joined us”.

“Nordis Verlag was an exhibitor at CARAVAN SALON for the first time. Together with the camping associations from Sweden and Norway, we introduced visitors to the topic of ‘Camping in Scandinavia’ in Hall 7 and also actively participated in the lecture programme on stage. We were delighted with the response and enquiries made at our joint stand, and the new design of Hall 7 was also a hit. We look forward to participating again in 2025,” says Jörn Backhaus, Managing Director of Nordis Verlag GmbH

“CARAVAN SALON remains the world’s leading trade fair for us suppliers. In Düsseldorf, it is very obvious how much of a positive impact our nature-based form of holiday has on people of all ages and backgrounds: individual, unique and future-oriented. The start of the season in Düsseldorf was fantastic and I am confident we have a very successful time ahead of us in our caravanning industry,” says John-David Pozzi, Managing Director of Fiamma SpA GmbH

News and curiosities from the Caravan Salon

Here’s a selection of the latest innovations presented in Düsseldorf by leading European manufacturers — and beyond: caravans and camper vans are now arriving from China as well

Alpine Cross Cabin Signature – Germany

Branded as Alpine but manufactured by the German company VanWeekend, this luxurious semi-integrated motorhome stands out for its refined design, especially on the interior, with a layout designed to facilitate remote working and an aluminum chassis developed by Nexsd. This allows it to remain well below the 3.5-ton threshold, despite its length of 6.8 meters. Opposite the entrance door, a workstation with a 27-inch monitor has been installed, while the rear dinette is equipped with a touchscreen. The audio-video system is, of course, top-notch.

Hymer Grand Canyon S 700 – Germany

After the success of the Grand Canyon S 600, Hymer has decided to expand the size of its camper van built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The new S 700 version is based on the 697-centimeter-long van, enhancing the living area and bathroom space, and it features comfortable twin beds. The trade-off is the need for a “C” (or at least C1) driver’s license, as the fully loaded weight reaches 3,880 kilograms. An

optional pop-up roof is available, adding two additional sleeping spots.

Bürstner Talis Germany

This year, Bürstner has brought significant innovation to the otherwise static caravan market. The Talis is designed to be extremely flexible, with the slogan “travel small, live large” in mind. The caravan features a large pneumatic rear slide-out, called the Air-Xtension, which houses a bed that can expand to 200 by 170 centimeters. Beneath the bed, there’s a “kids’ sleeping den” that can accommodate two children, or alternatively, be used for luggage storage.

SAIC Maxus Deliver 9 – China

Thanks to the importer La Marca, the Maxus camper vans from the Chinese company SAIC are arriving in Europe. The Deliver

Etrusco UC 5.0 XR – Germany

Etrusco has chosen Renault chassis for its debut in the small van segment. The acronym UC stands for Urban Camper. While traveling, it can accommodate up to 6 people, and in vacation mode, it offers 4 sleeping spaces. The kitchen is fully equipped with a sink, two-burner stove, and chest refrigerator. The Trafic is available with a 170-horsepower engine and automatic transmission.

9 model is 594 centimeters long, equipped with a gas-free system, and accommodates four people with a rear bunk double bed. Prices are expected to start at around €60,000.

Knaus Sport 500 EU – Germany

Knaus unveiled the updated Sport range of its caravans, offering 14 layouts with lengths from 606 to 866 cm. The rear wall is built using the FoldXpand design, allowing for a few extra centimeters of interior space. This 500 EU model features sought-after twin beds at the front and a comfortable U-shaped dinette at the rear.

Wingamm Oasi

690 G – Italy

The Italian Wingamm chose the stage of the Caravan Salon to unveil its Oasi 690 G, the largest monocoque model in its lineup. Onboard, it offers 4 sleeping spaces: 2 in the transverse double bed at the rear and 2 in the front longitudinal drop-down bed. The chassis is the Fiat Ducato with a 2.2-liter, 140-horsepower engine. More powerful engines and an automatic transmission are on request.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2024

Starlight – China

The Chinese Starlight, which has recently opened a branch in the Netherlands, offers a range of caravans made entirely of aluminum. On the right is the Cube 440 model, which optimizes interior space thanks to its boxy design and includes a 100-liter fresh water tank and a 50-liter gray water tank. Below is the unique Aquila 360, built on an AL-KO chassis and equipped with a lithium battery system with a total capacity of 800Ah. Among its features are a 2,700W Dometic air conditioner and a 2,000W diesel heater.

VarioMobil Vario Perfect 1050 – Germany

This model earned the title of the most expensive vehicle displayed at the Caravan Salon: over €1.4 million! Its living area, expanded thanks to a large side slide-out, combines a sofa and single armchairs to create a luxurious and wel-

coming space. The bathroom layout is also unique: it separates the bedroom from the living area not with a central corridor, but with two asymmetrical doors — one at the front left and one at the rear right.

Niesmann+Bischoff Arto 78 – Germany

The German company has completely revamped its liner based on the MB Sprinter. The highly customizable 78 model is 782 cm long and features interior walls covered with a soft, insulating material that also provides soundproofing. The variable-volume bathroom shifts an entire wall to create space for the shower area.

Fendt Bianco Activ 495 FSE – Germany

The Bianco Activ range is one of the most extensive from the German manufacturer, offering 11 different layouts with lengths ranging from 603 to 772 centimeters. The 495 FSE model (722 centimeters) stands out for the positioning of the kitchen unit: despite its classic “L” shape, the block containing the stove and sink is not aligned along the wall but is positioned transversely, serving to separate the sleeping area (with a French bed) from the living area.

Carthago C2-tourer – Germany

The new C2-Tourer range introduced by Carthago is built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and is exclusively available as an integrated model. There are five layout options, three of which have a total weight under 3.5 tons. Compared to the C1-Tourer range, the exterior has been fully redesigned, featuring a front section with a wider windshield and a more

Adria Aviva 300

LH Lite – Slovenia

Small, lightweight, and affordable. This miniature caravan is just 4.75 meters long (with an internal length of three meters) and weighs 700 kilograms. Despite its compact size, it includes a toilet compartment (complete with shower and window) and a U-shaped dinette that can seat five or six people. The double bed is created by converting the dinette, while a hammock bed can accommodate a third person. The kitchen is minimal, featuring only a refrigerator and sink, without a stovetop. Storage space is reasonably adequate, with a cabinet under the countertop, a narrow wardrobe next to the fridge, a pair of overhead compartments, and space under the benches. Optional features include AGM or lithium batteries and solar panels for recharging.

aerodynamic profile. All versions include a front semi-dinette with a side bench, L-shaped kitchen, and a split bathroom layout. The bedroom can be configured with either twin beds or a central double bed. Lengths range from 7.2 to 7.48 meters. Ample storage capacity, thanks in part to the capacious double floor.

Dethleffs Just Camp T 6762 – Germany

The trend of using a fold-down bed as the primary sleeping solution has also been embraced by Dethleffs. In this semi-integrated model, the layout features a spacious front lounge with opposing sofas, a central kitchen, and a rear transversal bathroom with a nearly full-width wardrobe above the garage. On the left side, the storage compartment extends up to the ceiling, providing great versatility. The vehicle measures 695 centimeters in length and offers four sleeping berths: a drop-down double bed (200 by 150 cm) and a second bed converted from the dinette (210 by 120 cm). The chassis is based on the Fiat Ducato.

Streimer

Head of Sales

Lukas Schwehr

Product Manager

Oliver Drinkwater

Managing Director, E&P Hydraulics

Technology & Components area: exhibitor video interviews

T his year, Aboutcamp BtoB once again conducted its customary video interviews with the exhibitors from the ‘Technology & Components’ section in Halls 13 and 14 at Caravan Salon Düsseldorf. However, for this edition of the fair, we have partnered directly with Messe Düsseldorf, and all the videos are now available on the official YouTube channel of the fair.

Click to play each individual interview.

Ugo Francescutti

Managing Director

Marco Benatti

Technical Commercial Department

Lorenzo Maggini

Commercial & Marketing Manager

Davide Verde

Area Manager

Lorenzo Bellini

Product Manager

Paola Minguzzi

Sales

Ursula Scalia

Head of Sales & Marketing

Donovan Windecker

Social Media

Marketing Manager

Alexander Vohwinkel

Key Account Manager

Matthias Rügner

Head of Exterior OEM EMEA

Matthias Büscher

Manager RVAM Division EMEA

Leonhard Bazlen

Marketing Segment Manager Systems & Solutions

Knut Kallbach

Teamlead Sales Consumer

Lapo Ermini

Managing Director

Karl Krisiulevicius

Sales Manager UK & Ireland

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2024

Francesca Filippi

Export Sales Manager

Andrea Brohm

CEO

Gabriele Morbidelli

Business Unit Manager Automotive & Leisure

Markus Bächer

Marketing Manager

Emanuel Bessmann

Managing Director

Marcello Maestri

Managing Director

Elena Maini

Sales Manager

Emiliano Gambineri

Director of Product Management, Caravanning Europe

Andrea Emanuele

Head of Sales

Roberto Bigoni

International Sales Manager

Timo Hoffmann

Sales Director

Anita Nencioni

Sales Manager

Alain Sagnard

Technical Sales Manager

Europe Core Composites

Massimo Montella

Sales Department Manager

Francesco Canzone

Sales Director

Thomas Steil

Product Manager Air Conditioning Systems

Sander Dusseldorp

General Sales & Marketing Manager

Fabrizio Baglioni

Commercial Director

Ian Hughes

Head of Sales UK Market

Norbert Van Noesel

Marketing Manager

Giorgio Biggiogero

Sales and Marketing Director

Markus Heringer

Managing Director

Jonas Domaschka

Head of Sales

Tim Batist

Managing Director

R eport Parma - Salone del Camper 2024

The Salone del Camper surpasses 100,000 visitors

The Parma event concluded its 2024 edition with impressive figures, featuring over 330 exhibitors and more than 600 vehicles on display. Antonio Cellie (Fiere di Parma) and Simone Niccolai (APC) expressed their satisfaction with the outcome. Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè reaffirmed the government’s focus on open-air tourism

The 15th edition of the Salone del Camper, organized by Fiere di Parma in collaboration with APC (Italian Association of Caravan and Camper Manufacturers), once again established itself as Italy’s leading industry fair and the second largest in Europe in terms of attendance. This year, the event recorded over 100,000 visitors, with more than 330 exhibitors, including 70 from 16 countries.

Spanning an exhibition space of 110,000 square meters across five pavilions, over 600 recreational vehicles were displayed, marking a 4% increase in both exhibitors and space occupied compared to the previous year.

“We are very satisfied with the 2024 edition of the Salone del Camper,” said

Antonio Cellie, CEO of Fiere di Parma, “because the numbers certify not only the strength and vitality of the sector but also the positive sentiment among the public. The Salone has once again affirmed itself as a recognized and established recreational vehicle showcase on the European stage, in a sector where Italy plays a significant role.”

“The success of the Salone del Camper reflects the huge interest Italians have in campers and caravans: not just for vacations but also for year-round leisure and weekend trips to discover beautiful places and nature, whether alone, with family, or with friends,” added Simone Nicco-

lai, APC president. “This is experiential tourism, also involving sports and food and wine events, allowing people to enjoy their free time with a sense of freedom and in great comfort.”

The opening conference focused on the future of Fiere di Parma and the Salone del Camper (with their agreement renewed for another five years), strong market results, support for revising the European driver’s license directive, and investments in open-air tourism, starting with a grant to fund new rest areas for recreational vehicles.

Market figures

APC president Simone Niccolai announced that the Salone del Camp-

er agreement has been extended for at least five more editions. “We know that in the coming years, Fiere di Parma will bring many positive innovations that will make the Salone del Camper even more professional, attractive, and accessible. Reaching over 100,000 visitors is a significant milestone, solidifying our position as the second-largest fair in Europe in the open-air movement.” Niccolai then highlighted some key figures: during the season ending August 31, 6,892 vehicles were registered in Italy, compared to 5,542 the previous year, reflecting a 24.34% growth. Niccolai emphasized how this result aligns with growth trends over the last ten years. In 2014, registrations were below 4,000 units, but they have steadily increased since then, even with the disruptions caused by the pandemic. In Europe, the market is equally strong, with a 9.4% increase in registrations in the first half of 2024. APC’s efforts to support the sector are focused on marketing and communication campaigns, consulting services for municipalities and entrepreneurs to develop camper rest areas, engaging with European institutions, coordinating activities with these institutions and the European Caravan Federation (ECF), and, naturally, continuing the partnership between the Salone del Camper and Fiere di Parma.

Minister Santanchè’s input

Antonio Cellie welcomed Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè to the stage, asking about priorities for supporting the sector’s growth. Santanchè emphasized the importance of fairs, stating, “The sector is essential for combating seasonality. Success requires awareness that teamwork is crucial; your partnership with Fiera Milano goes in this direction. A fragmented fair sector without a shared vision hinders success.” (Editor’s note: In 2023, Fiere di Parma signed a collaboration agreement with Fiera Milano). The focus then shifted to open-air tourism, which the Ministry is heavily invested in. “We don’t just look at registrations,” Santanchè noted, “but also how our ‘villages’ function - I no longer like the term ‘campsites,’ as it lacks the positive connotation it once had. Camping is no longer about tents alone; it has evolved tremendously. Today, it’s a high-value tourism sector. Buying a camper is an investment, which I see as very positive.”

Quality tourism and combating seasonality

Santanchè suggested shifting the perspective on tourism: “We must stop counting how many people come to our country and instead measure how much they spend here. We must understand that we are a quality, not quantity, destination. We need to raise the bar to attract high-value tourism and be increasingly compet-

itive and ambitious, striving to be the best.” Finally, she urged the business community to work on seasonality: “We must keep facilities open as long as possible, because if everything closes by mid-September, sustaining tourism growth becomes difficult. I understand that entrepreneurs must keep an eye on financials, and the government needs to support those who choose to stay open, at least until a virtuous cycle is established.” She assured that this would be a focus of future efforts.

The most interesting new products we saw in Parma

Recently, more Italians have discovered the potential of motorhome and camper vans, a way to travel and stay anywhere freely, blending harmoniously with the environment. Here is a selection of the most significant vehicles for the 2025 season

The offerings from manufacturers for the 2025 season are highly varied. This season’s trend is compact low-profile motorhomes, with many new models debuting. In terms

of originality, Laika stands out with its Kosmo L 105; Atlantis has introduced a vehicle made from carbon fiber instead of fiberglass; and Revans impressed with a high-end camper van full of

Atlantis Carbon 595

The Atlantis Carbon 595 is the first monocoque motorhome made from carbon fiber, an innovative solution that reduces overall weight without compromising strength and safety.

The Carbon 595 is built on an AL-KO chassis with a sandwich structure composed of two layers of carbon fiber and a core of expanded insulation. This design offers excellent impact and weather resistance. Not only does this configuration ensure greater vehicle longevity, but it also contributes to superior thermal insulation. Tests conducted in the Truma climate chamber, simulating extreme cold conditions (-15°C for 12 hours with the vehicle turned off), showed that the interior reached a temperature of 20°C in just three hours—one hour faster than the four hours required by the test.

innovative ideas and solutions. Also noteworthy is Blucamp, which, in partnership with Assocamp, promoted the Sky Free, a vehicle designed for people with mobility impairments.

Blucamp Sky Free

The Blucamp Sky Free is a motorhome specifically designed for individuals with mobility impairments, ensuring both accessibility and comfort. It features an electric platform lift and a widened entry, along with a spacious interior layout and a barrier-free bathroom with an accessible shower. The motorhome is powered by a Fiat Ducato 2.2 Mjet engine with 140 hp, delivering reliable performance, and it includes an electric bed for added convenience.

BunkerVan Forested 4x4

BunkerVan is a Spanish company that has gained attention in the industry by focusing exclusively on camper vans featuring a distinctive rear U-shaped dinette layout. The double bed is designed to drop down over the living area, optimizing the limited interior space typically found in camper vans. Their latest model is built on a Ford Transit chassis with all-wheel drive, measuring 598 cm in length. It also boasts a rear storage compartment large enough to accommodate two bicycles (front wheels removed). The double bed measures 195 by 145 cm.

Laika Kosmo L 105

Malibu Genius 641 LE

According to Malibu, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based camper vans, at 593 cm in length, do not provide the typical comfort level that their vehicles are known for. To address this, the German company decided to create a rear extension, bringing the total length to 641 cm. This allows for the installation of twin beds in the sleeping area and a large 1,400-liter cargo compartment, which is separated from the living space and accessible through a vertical-opening tailgate. Thus, the Malibu Genius 641 LE was born, also available in a performance 4x4 version with all-wheel drive, featuring “all-terrain” tires, LED lighting, and a system equipped with 300Ah lithium batteries.

Laika’s new Kosmo L 105 is one of its most compact models in recent years, measuring just six meters long. It features a rear U-shaped maxi-dinette, capable of seating up to seven people. For night time, there are two twin drop-down beds above the living area, which can also be converted into a double bed. Opposite the entrance door is the kitchen, designed in a slight L-shape, while behind the front seats are the wardrobe (on the left) and a flexible bathroom with a rotating sink wall to create a spacious shower area (on the right). A retractable table allows the passenger seat to serve as a workspace or relaxation spot. The vehicle also includes a double floor with two hatches and storage drawers.

R eport Parma - Salone del Camper 2024

Notin Vera

The French brand Notin, which is part of the Trigano Group, boasts a history spanning over a hundred years. The company made its official debut in Italy just before the Salone del Camper where it showcased some of its offerings. The Progress Vera model features a compact design (649 centimeters in length) and an interior layout that follows the latest trends: no fixed bed, opposing benches at the front with a drop-down bed, a kitchen in the central area, and a large transverse rear compartment with a spacious wardrobe above the garage storage.

Giottiline Toscan 69 XF

A completely new model debuts in the Toscan family of Giottiline, a Tuscan company that is part of the Rapido group: the Toscan 69 XF, which offers a layout without fixed beds in a length of six meters and 99 centimeters. The living area features a fold-down bed (148/128 by 196 centimeters) and can accommodate up to seven people, but the real highlight is the rear bathroom, that is divided into two sections: a bathroom with a sink on the right and a shower on the left. An unusual folding door allows for the creation of a single room.

Revans

Revans is a new Italian company that has decided to venture into the creation of high-quality panel vans capable, according to the designer’s intentions, of surpassing the limits of traditional camper vans by creating the ideal camper. The first model is based on the Fiat Ducato with a distinctly original layout: at the front, there are four individual seats, while at the rear, a living area with opposing sofas is illuminated by three large windows, with the option to partially or fully open the horizontally divided rear door. The bedroom is located in the rigid pop-up roof and provides access to an original (and unique) panoramic terrace.

Elnagh E-Van 6 XL Premium

The main novelty from Elnagh for the 2025 season is the E-Van 6 XL Premium, a van with a compact length of 599 centimeters that offers a remarkable longitudinal dropdown double bed measuring 190 by 160 centimeters. Thanks to an electric lifting system, the underlying cargo space can have a variable height from 75 centimeters, with the bed in use, to a maximum of 130 centimeters. This allows for easy loading of bicycles or even small scooters. A 70-liter compressor refrigerator and diesel heating have made it possible to forgo the traditional pair of gas canisters in favor of a single seven-kilogram container. At the front, the removal of the overhead storage increases daytime livability.

McLouis Mc4 Slim 339

Narrow is beautiful. Or rather: it’s comfortable and more maneuverable. With this idea in mind, McLouis has developed the Series 300 Mc4 Slim, which includes three models with a compact width of 215 centimeters and a length ranging from 599 to 669 centimeters. The latter measurement characterizes the 339 model, which features a rear bedroom with twin beds, central services, and a front semi-dinette. A drop-down bed can be requested above the living area. The bathroom is designed with a pivoting wall that moves the sink over the toilet, freeing up space for a decent shower area.

Rimor Sarus 50

The new entry-level range from Rimor is called Sarus (initially named Bliss) and includes six overcab vehicles and eight semi-integrated models based on the Fiat Ducato. The Sarus 50 model features a modern design with elegant interiors, a pair of bunk beds in the rear for four sleeping places, and a double bed in the overcab, totaling six approved sleeping spaces. The living area has a double “L”-shaped sofa that accommodates all occupants at the table, while the centrally located bathroom is positioned between the single beds. This layout keeps the overall vehicle length to 699 centimeters.

Salon des Véhicules de Loisirs: a resounding success

The 58th edition of the Salon des Véhicules de Loisirs, held at the Parc des Expositions in Paris Nord Villepinte, one of the premier events in the recreational vehicle industry in France, concluded with a total of almost 85,000 visitors over its nine-day duration, with a steady influx of 10,000 attendees each day over the weekend

Atotal of 2,855 recreational vehicles were welcomed at the dedicated camping area during the event, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the fair and stay overnight. Attendees enjoyed not only exploring the latest models of motorhomes, caravans, and mobile homes but also participating in various activities, including vehicle test drives, and engaging in discussions with industry experts, and enthusiasts.

A showcase of innovation

The event featured major French and European manufacturers, highlighting the latest trends and advancements in the recreational vehicle market. Visitors had the opportunity to discover a wide range of vehicles, from sleek motorhomes to compact vans, as well as a broad selection of accessories, specialised equipment, and services catered to outdoor leisure enthusiasts.

Sustainability at the forefront

A key focus of this year’s fair was the growing importance of eco-responsibility in the RV market. As environmental awareness continues to shape consumer preferences, manufacturers are increasingly adopting greener technologies.

The motorhome models presented at the 2024 Salon des Véhicules de Loisirs were built on advanced mechanical basis, featuring state-of-the-art engines Click to watch our video report of Salon VDL 2024

designed to minimise emissions and prioritise environmental sustainability. Moreover Trigano’s Challenger and Chausson brands launched their first dual-mode (electric/diesel) motorhomes. A survey revealed that 76% of new motorhome buyers and 71% of vanlifers value the environmental benefits of their vehicles. The push for sustainability was also evident in the mobile home sector, where manufacturers are utilising recyclable materials and supporting recycling initiatives like Eco Mobil-homes. These efforts aim to reduce waste and extend the life cycle of vehicles through creative repurposing, such as temporary student housing.

An immersive experience

In addition to the eco-friendly innovations on display, the Salon des Véhicules de Loisirs provided a unique hands-on experience. Visitors could test drive vehicles, explore the interiors of camping cars, and attend conferences led by industry leaders and influencers. The community spirit was alive in the camping area, where RV owners shared their passion for outdoor travel and enjoyed nightly festivities, making the event a truly immersive experience for all attendees.

Looking forward to 2025

With the 2024 edition concluded, anticipation is already building for next year’s fair, set to take place from September 27 to October 5, 2025, at Le Bourget.

Challenger X150 Electrix, the first hybrid motorhome with electric power & classic engine

“We are pleased to introduce the first electric vehicle on the market featuring a special system called B-Mode,” says Romain Girard, Marketing Manager Trigano VDL. “In addition to the traditional setup of a thermal engine, the

rear section has been converted to electric mode. This configuration allows for 100 kilometers of electric autonomy, achieved through a specialised system that includes batteries located just beneath the vehicle and specific wheels containing electric motors.

“These 18-inch wheels are equipped with electric engines,” continues Girard, ”similar to those found in electric bikes, ensuring they are seamlessly integrated into the design. Underneath, you will find the batteries, which occupy no additional space—around 300 kilograms and 37 kilowatts per hour— providing the same 100 kilometers of range.

“The B-Mode,” concludes Girard, “allows the driver to select different driving modes using a dashboard panel. When the engine is on, simply switch the key and select your desired mode via the button. The thermal mode operates just like the diesel engine of the Ducato. When you choose electric mode, information about the battery and engine is displayed on the mirror, including autonomy details. You can select Drive to move forward, Reverse to back up, or Neutral to stay stationary when stopped”.

Interview with Patrick Sanz

President of DICA, Federation Nationale des Distributeurs de Vehicules de Loisirs

Aboutcamp BtoB − How many dealers are part of the DICA?

Patrick Sanz − Today, we have 250 companies, each with one or more sales points.

Aboutcamp BtoB − There is a trend towards larger consolidations...

Patrick Sanz − Yes, dealers are acquiring other dealers to gain the negotiating power needed with manufacturers and to increase their visibility across the country. As a result, there are many consolidations. Even the automotive industry is starting to buy into this space.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Are car dealers establishing new dealerships, or are they primarily acquiring existing ones?

Patrick Sanz − Both. Some car dealers are buying already well-structured and functioning dealerships, and it’s working well for them. It’s a different business model.

Aboutcamp BtoB − In terms of consolidation, are there companies that own all the dealerships, or are there networks of smaller, independent dealers?

Patrick Sanz − Some groups retain

the majority of the capital, while the minority remains with the dealers. Otherwise, in groups, each dealer is independent but works for the brand.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What do you offer to dealers?

Patrick Sanz − We offer training, of course. We also provide legal services, work with public authorities, and collaborate with manufacturers to amend laws when needed. We address motorhome parking issues and provide access to a website that includes case law and all relevant legal texts.

Aboutcamp BtoB − How many dealers are part of the association, and how many are not?

Patrick Sanz − We have 80% of dealers in the association, so there are very few non-member dealers.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What about warranties?

Patrick Sanz − Sometimes it’s complicated because it happens that customers express dissatisfaction on social media and the internet. We are working to improve the situation.

R eport Paris - Salon VDL 2024

Rapido Distinction

From the merging of the two top ranges of Rapido, namely the M series and the Distinction series, the new Distinction 2025 range is born. The mechanical base serves as the best calling card: it employs the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter combined with the Al-Ko chassis. This lowered chassis allows for the creation of a double floor, which houses various system components as well as underfloor storage compartments.

The new Distinction series features both external and internal restyling, along with the introduction of new models. The previous models, i66 M and i96 M, which are about 7.5 metres long, remain in the lineup, but two maxi versions measur-

ing 8.15 metres in length have also been added: the i166 M and i196 M, which offer a larger representation of what the smaller models provide. The Distinction i166 M adopts the solution of twin single beds at the rear, while the Distinction i196 M features a rear bedroom with a peninsula bed. In both cases, the bathroom area is well developed, with an independent shower cubicle serving as a filter between the living and sleeping areas.

To provide maximum onboard comfort, features include liftable bed headboards,

Fleurette Elister

French company Fleurette relies on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis to reaffirm its prestige and offers a highend semi-integrated model called Elister. It is available in two versions, both measuring 7.3 metres in length: the 73 LMF, which features a central rear bed, and the 73 LJF, which has twin beds. Both models provide a spacious bathroom with independent shower and a living area with opposing sofas.

electrically retractable wardrobes, and a vacuum system, not to mention the Alde heating system. The two new models also focus on living convenience, opting for a comfortable face-to-face dinette with two opposing sofas. The kitchen area is particularly appealing, featuring a concave design and full-width drawers.

Dreamer CamperSport

A direct offshoot of the Rapido Group, Dreamer offers a well-differentiated range that covers all possible solutions in the camper van and mini van categories. A new addition is the Camper Sport model (Fun range), which fits into the trend of multifunctional camper vans geared towards sports and leisure activities. Its strong point is the large rear cargo area, a true garage that can accommodate a motorcycle and allows a person to stand upright. This is made possible by using the high-roof Fiat Ducato H3, which measures 6.36 metres in length, as well as the liftable bed positioned directly above the garage. The bed is longitudinal, maximising space in the cargo area. Additionally, the end of the bed can be raised to further increase the height of the area below. A small door connects the garage to the rest of the cabin.

3C Cartier

3C Cartier specialises in creating custom camper vehicles tailored to clients’ specific requests and travel needs. Clients select the base vehicle—whether it’s a Mercedes, Iveco, Fiat, or MAN—and choose the interior materials and equipment. Recently, there has been an increased demand for 4x4 expedition vehicles, although they also produce standard road vehicles. They showcase vehicles loaned by clients at trade shows, as they do not maintain stock.

Pilote P720 U Expression

The new Pilote P 720 U is not just a simple restyling of the well-known P 696 U; it offers new solutions and reconfigured interior spaces. It is a semi-integrated model measuring 7.25 metres, based on the Fiat Ducato, and is characterised by an unconventional interior layout. This is not only due to the presence of a spacious rear living area but also because of the innovative inclusion of a large front storage compartment.

In the rear part of the cabin, there is a generous U-shaped lounge that promotes social interaction, above which a large drop-down bed descends at night. The kitchen is centrally located, in front of the entrance door. At the front of the vehicle, just after the driver’s cabin, is the bathroom with an independent shower, along with a spacious wardrobe underneath, which contains the storage compartment. This storage space is accessi-

Carriage-RV

Originally specialising in buses, this company gradually transitioned into leisure vehicles, driven by a shared passion. Their production capabilities have no limits regarding vehicle size, and each project, including expedition trucks, is managed professionally. They can produce up to five expedition trucks annually and manufacture between 20 and 25 vehicles per year, depending on the scale of the projects. They prefer to maintain a mid-sized production level to stay focused on quality. Although they primarily sell in France, they aim to expand into Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy. Currently, they are awaiting regulatory changes to enable certification in these countries and plan to partner with local companies for after-sales services.

ble from both inside and outside through a side door. The bathroom-wardrobe area can be separated from the cabin and the rest of the living space, allowing it to be used as a changing area.

R eport Paris - Salon VDL 2024

Roller Team Livingstone 7 Active

“We produce many brands of the Trigano group in Italy, and we are close to the Stellantis factory that manufactures the Fiat Ducato,” says Fabio Contillo, Product and Design Manager for Trigano Van. “Today, we are here to showcase our brand-new model, which features a truly innovative layout. This is a 6-meter van that can accommodate up to five people with homologated seatbelts. Additionally, we have the largest dinette on the market. By lowering the table, you can create a 1.9-meter bed in this area.

The rear cabin of the Livingstone 7 Active is designed for two children, but it can easily be transformed into a bike garage. You can remove both beds, allowing space for two bikes in a vertical position. This layout is also called the ‘Family Sport’ because it can sleep five people: two on the pop-up bed, two children on the bunk beds, and one person in the dinette. Alternatively, you can use the rear cabin for bike storage.”

The toilet in the Livingstone 7 Active features a transverse

Westfalia Club Joker Urban

Maximum flexibility of use, whether in the city, on vacation, or just leisure time, that’s the concept behind the Westfalia Club Joker Urban, a mini van that continues the lineage of multifunctional vehicles from the Franco-German company (Rapido Group). Based on the Ford Tourneo Custom, this vehicle has a length of 5.05 metres. The roof is low, with an external height of 2.05 metres, but when parked, the pop-up roof can be raised to increase the height of the living area or to create an upper sleeping area with two beds. What primarily distinguishes this mini van is the presence of two independent single seats in the central part of the cabin, mounted on rails so they can slide to customise the interior space as desired. An additional two seats can be installed, bringing the total to six travel seats. Unlike typical mini vans, there is no convertible sofa bed; instead, the seats recline, and a

design, allowing for a separate shower that can be used either as a shower or for storing wet clothes, such as after skiing or outdoor adventures.

“You can completely separate the toilet from the living area,” continues Fabio Contillo, “and the rear cabin can also be divided from the living space.”

bed frame with a mattress is placed on top of them. Also noteworthy is the kitchen, which features a portable refrigerator integrated into a drawer. Thanks to its compact dimen-

sions and comfortable travel seats, the Club Joker Urban can serve as a replacement for a car, yet it can easily transform into a vacation vehicle with just a few simple adjustments.

Font Vendome and Teleco

Aiming to provide excellent comfort in its camper vans, Font Vendome has introduced the new and revolutionary Teleco Ultra Comfort 6000 air conditioner in the Duo Van model. The Ultra Comfort 6000 is designed to climate-control the interior of any motorhome or camper van and features the installation of the compressor within the engine compartment. This new Teleco air conditioner can be installed on various Stellantis production bases: Fiat Ducato, Citroën Jumper, Peugeot Boxer, and Opel Movano. It is particularly interesting for camper vans equipped with a pop-up roof, as they cannot use traditional air conditioners with a roof-mounted compressor. The Teleco Ultra Comfort 6000, which employs a diffuser integrated into the original dashboard of the vehicle, utilizes heat pump technology, allowing the device to function both as an air conditioner and a heater.

Fautras Olympium

Fautras, a European leader in the production of horse transport trailers, also features the Olympium series in its catalogue, which can be easily towed by a motorhome or camper van. The Olympium range includes various versions suitable for transporting sports equipment, motorcycles, quads, and micro cars. The Cruiser version is designed for adventure (or simply to enhance the hospitality of the towing vehicle) and comes equipped with a rooftop tent, electrical outlets and lights, a battery, and a solar panel.

Miss-Drop

Mini tear-drop Caravan made in France, produced by Passion Concept: the model La Baroudeuse measures 4.4 metres in length (including the towbar), 1.85 metres in width, and 1.84 metres in height. The total approved weight is 750 kg. By opening the rear hatch, you access a fully equipped kitchen block, while the two side doors allow entry into the cabin, which features a double bed along with an overhead cabinet. The bed can be folded to make space for a table. This caravan is customisable with various optional features and the exterior colour.

A conversation with Jacques Bourdon Vice President at FFCC

The French Federation of Campers and Caravanners is now 85 years old. Established in 1938, it cur rently has 120,000 members and partners with the FICC. “The purpose of our federation is to defend the interests of campers,” explains Jacques Bourdon. “In our case, a camper can be someone in a tent, caravan, motorhome, or mobile home. We are recognised as serving the public interest in France, which gives us connections with the French government. Today, 1,300 campgrounds are partners of our federation, meaning they offer discounts during or outside the peak season.”

The federation also participates in the classification of campgrounds by stars in France and is involved in an association called “Camping Qualité,” which promotes quality across all aspects, including the welcome provided at campgrounds.

The members are divided into two groups: 60,000 direct members, who are independent, and another 60,000 members who are part of clubs affiliated with the federation.

“For members of the federation,” continues Jacques Bourdon, “the FI-CSS card we provide is of particular interest. This card offers three types of insurance: first, civil liability, which we have in France; second, insurance that allows members to cancel camping reservations; and third, legal protection. Another benefit is access to club advantages, with 22,000 partners offering 150,000 discounts in various areas, including camping chains, ferry crossings, and consumer goods.

The FFCC card is issued directly by the federation for individual members, while the 80 clubs affiliated with us manage the membership process for their members.”

Highlights from the UK’s biggest show

October is always an exciting time in the UK leisure vehicle industry thanks to the Motorhome and Caravan Show. We scoured the show floor to pick out some of the most interesting highlights and product launches in this important market

Leisure vehicle manufacturers and brands of all shapes and sizes from around the world recently gathered in Birmingham, United Kingdom, for the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2024. The event, which took place in its usual location of the National Exhibition Centre from 14 to 19 October, is the single biggest gathering of companies producing motorhomes, caravans, campervans, and accessories in the country. This year the show spanned 11 halls, covering an area of almost 21 acres and hosted more than 350 different exhibitors. This year’s event attracted an attendance of more than 95,000 visitors, which is slightly down on the previous year but still strong in the current circumstances.

The Motorhome and Caravan show is always a great place to get a sense of the mood in the British leisure vehicle market, which seemed relatively optimistic given recent challenges in the industry. As you would expect, most of the major UK players were present with new innovations including Bailey of Bristol, Swift, Coachman, Elddis, and Auto-Trail. However, one noticeable aspect of this year’s event was that a strong number of European brands exhibiting at the show in their own right rather than just having their models on display through UK dealers. Names such as Hobby, Hymer, Giottiline, Bürstner, Knaus, Carthago, Chausson, and Dethleffs all had significant presences. Many major components and accessories brands also made the trip such as AL-KO, Alde, VB Air Suspension, Thetford, and Truma. It is estimated that all the brands showcased no fewer than 1,000 new models to the British trade and public. The history and tradition of the British caravan and motorhome industry was another major theme at this year’s exhibition. Caravan brand Elddis, part of the Erwin Hymer Group, celebrated its 60th anniversary while the UK’s National Caravan Council (NCC) celebrated 85 years of supporting the industry. The NCC has been running the Motorhome and Caravan Show since 2011, alongside another annual event, the Caravan,

Click to watch our video report of Birmingham, Motorhome and Caravan Show 2024

Camping & Motorhome Show, which takes place each February.

John Lally, the NCC’s Director General, said: “The NCC team has been at the heart of our industry and domestic tourism through the decades by playing a pivotal role in shaping, growing and supporting what has been a great British success story.

“While we are incredibly proud of our long and successful legacy, we always remain focussed on what lies ahead and are both excited and confident about the future despite inevitable challenges facing the industry”.

Karen Dodd, Marketing Director at NCC Events, said: “The feedback from exhibitors at this year’s show has been overwhelmingly positive. We are delighted that so many have experienced incredible sales, a result that has been reflected in the volume of stand space rebooked for the 2025 event (14-19 October 2025). It’s clear that despite economic challenges, our efforts to deliver serious leisure vehicle enthusiasts and firsttime buyers was a success, cementing the show as the industry’s leading and most important event for UK retail sales.”

R eport Birmingham - Motorhome and Caravan Show

Bailey Endeavour B63 and B65

This time last year Bailey successfully launched into the campervan segment with its Endeavour. Such has been the success of this launch that this year the company revealed two new layouts for the Ford Transit-based camper. The two-berth B63 features an end washroom and kitchen, and a living area that can be converted into either a single or double bed. The B65 is a four-berth with a fold-away, transverse double bed at the rear – the additional two sleeping berths come from a pop-top roof. Both vans are packed with modern features including Truma 100w solar panels on the roof.

Swift Sprite Exclusive

The Swift Sprite is somewhat of an icon when it comes to British caravans – its reliability and affordability make it a favourite range among UK campers. For 2025, Swift revealed the Sprite Exclusive range, which offers a more premium feel in terms of features and aesthetics but maintains great value for money. A highlight is the new sixberth Quattro MB layout with front L-shaped living area, side kitchen, mid washroom and rear fixed bed. It also has 120w solar panels, AL-KO Trailer Control, and external barbecue point. The Major 6TD layout is also new.

For 2025, Coachman has revamped its popular Acadia range of caravans, with the star attractions coming at both ends of the size scale. The compact Acadia 460 is a neat and tidy two-berth with opposing seats in the front that convert to a bed and rear washroom, meanwhile, the Acadia 675 Xtra is a large twin axle caravan that features an L-shaped living area, transverse island bed that can be shortened for more space in the day, and well-equipped kitchen with large fridge freezer. Every piece of furniture has been redesigned in these vans for both style and weight saving.

Auto-Trail

Following the trend of motorhomes becoming more compact and smarter with their layouts, the new two-berth Excel 620S from Auto-Trail seeks to strike the perfect balance between driving ease and living comfort. Measuring 6.2m in length and 2.24m in width, this Ford Transit-based motorhome should make driving and parking easier – something further aided by the wide rear axle. There are no compromises inside, where a large kitchen, bench seating that converts to a double bed, spacious bathroom, and plenty of storage space could fool you into thinking you’re in a much larger motorhome.

Elddis Crusader 60th Anniversary

Perhaps the most notable thing about the Elddis stand this year was the fact that the famous brand was celebrating its diamond anniversary. To mark the 60 years in business, it has refreshed its Crusader caravan range with new Mara upholstery, and new cabinetry finish in Tibero with Platino and Linum Haithabu options. Each of these caravans also features limited edition graphics to celebrate this major milestone. Pictures here are from the impressively spacious six-berth Crusader Tempest – a twin axle with fixed bunk beds and mod cons like Alde heating.

Xplore XC Lite

So-called adventure caravans are nothing new, but Erwin Hymer Group-owned Xplore is hoping to make its whole brand about adventure with the launch of three exciting new caravans under the XC range. Perhaps the most interesting is the XC Lite, a great value for money caravan that manages to fit an impressive fourberths into an almost impossibly small layout. The front seats become a double bed while the rear dinette converts into a single bed and can have another placed above it as a bunk bed. You’ll struggle to find a caravan as light and small as this that does as much – perfect for adventurers.

R eport Birmingham - Motorhome and Caravan Show

Globe Traveller Falcon 2YS

While on the lookout for UK dealers to partner with, Polish company Globe Traveller also used the show to launch its Falcon 2YS campervan. Based on the Volkswagen Crafter, this van leans into a trend of having a lot of wood on display, which seems to be becoming more popular. The front bathroom and rear lounge/bedroom design is a new layout for this brand, but one of the really interesting features is a new removable rear wall that gives you great views out of the rear twin doors when desired. The insulation is double-walled in many places on this van making it ideal for winter, and the roof is very high inside – 1.91m at its lowest point.

Adria Compact Max

Project Yonder Freedom 4x

Adria has a strong foothold in the UK market, so when it announced its first-ever camper on a Volkswagen vehicle base, it was bound to cause a stir. The Compact Max is built on the irrepressible VW Crafter, which offers a driving experience that’s bound to please UK campers. Internally, it features a very clean and bright design that fits with modern, minimalist tastes. It also has a panoramic window, removable dinette table, intelligent heating from Truma, and a plethora of electronic and entertainment gadgets on board.

The 4x4 adventure camper trend is certainly growing in the UK market and Hastings-based Project Yonder was a new exhibitor at the show this year trying to grab its fair share of it. The all-wheel-drive Freedom 4x is a gas-free camper, utilising an extensive Victron Energy electrical system to help campers stay off grid. It’s built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and features many other smart design aspects such as VB Air Suspension, Trelino composting toilet, and Dometic fridge.

Mega Mobil

Mega Classic 600 S Hubbett

Another adventure-style vehicle from another new exhibitor – Slovenian brand Mega Mobil has recently set up in the UK and the Mega Classic 600 S Hubbett definitely caught the attention of show attendees. The van features 4Seasons insulation, Truma underfloor heating, and interior trim that is made from high-quality textile rather than plastic. In the rear, the electric drop-down bed from Lippert allows you to create a huge garage space, while the chunky Loder off-road tyres and Bravo Snorkel make it suitable for true off road adventures.

Campod

x Laura Ashley

And finally, one for the fashionistas. Campod, a British manufacturer of quirky mini caravans, revealed a special edition model that has been made in collaboration with British fashion label Laura Ashley. In terms of design, customers can choose from four different floral patterns on the exterior (each avail-

Eriba Car

Known best for its funky retro caravans, Eriba took the opportunity of being at the NEC to showcase its new campervan to the British public. This VW Crafter-based van features the playful and stylish colour options inside and out that Eriba is best known for, tapping into a retro style without feeling in any way dated. In fact, the interior actually has a premium feel thanks to the spacious rear sleeping area with a disc spring mattress, capable two-burner hob, heaps of storage in every corner, and a very clever bathroom that makes the most of a small space.

able in different colours) as well as different interior furnishing themes. This caravan is not style over substance – despite its small size it features oak worktops, Whalemaster 12v water pump, Dometic twin gas burner, a dual seating area that converts into a double bed, storage bunkers beneath the seats, and full on-board electronics.

Words Terry Owen

Five inventions that transformed the RV world

The absorption fridge

Invented just over 100 years ago (1922) by Swedish inventors Baltzar von Platen and Carl Munters, the absorption fridge has arguably contributed as much to RV’ing as any other invention. This is because it can cool without the need for electricity, thus opening up a wide range of camping possibilities.

Unlike previous fridges that relied on the mechanical compression of gases, the new device relied solely on heat as the energy source and had no moving parts. This meant it could be fuelled by LPG which,

by the 1930’s was becoming widely available.

For decades RV absorption fridges were powered solely by LPG but in the early 1980’s, as campsites with mains hook ups became available, electric heating elements were added. This provided a useful dual fuel ability, saving on gas when it wasn’t needed. About the same time 12-volt heating elements were added too, such that fridges could be powered from the vehicle’s 12-volt system when travelling. This is how the so-called three-way fridge was born. It

quickly became the ideal fridge for RV use and that’s why it has dominated the RV market until recently.

Now, advances in compressor technology along with improvements to batteries and solar panels, are allowing compressor fridges to gain more of a foothold. Despite this, the good old absorption fridge looks to have plenty of life left in it yet.

From left: an Electrolux gas-only absorption fridge from the 1970’s; absorption fridges have complex plumbing

A bit of history

Platen and Munters’ invention was put into mass production in 1923 by the AB Arctic company. Two years later the company was acquired by Electrolux. The rest, as they say is history, with Electrolux, and later Dometic (who bought Electrolux’ Leisure Appliances division in 2001), going on to become one of the world’s largest producers of absorption refrigerators. Thetford began supplying the market with absorption fridges in 2002, following their acquisition of North American speciality fridge maker, Norcold.

The drop-down bed

It’s difficult to say exactly when the first drop down bed appeared in an RV but Bürstner was a pioneer of the technology. In 2008 the Bürstner Ixeo became the first semi-integrated low-profile motorhome with a drop-down bed and the following year, their Averso Plus became the first touring caravan to be fitted with a drop-down bed.

A further development came in 2015 with the electrical drop-down bed. This made operation a breeze and was height adjustable. In many cases the bed could be lowered down to the height of the seats, eliminating the need for a ladder.

Today the drop-down bed can be found in a wide variety of motorhomes as well as some campers. However, the concept has not really caught on in the

touring caravan market, where weight and height are more of a problem.

A compromise that pays off

The big challenge for every RV designer is to maximise space efficiency. The drop-down bed can make a major contribution to this goal whilst retaining most of the advantages of a fixed bed layout in terms of comfort and convenience. Usable floor space is increased and a feeling of spaciousness created by removing the bed from sight during the day. Of course, the bodyshell of the RV has to be strong enough to cope with a drop-down bed and this adds a little to the weight but, for many, the compromise is well worth it.

F ocus on SUCCESSFUL INVENTIONS

AL-KO’s Motor Chassis (AMC)

AL-KO’S Motor Chassis (AMC) has perhaps done more for the world of motorhomes than any other single invention, at least in Europe and Australasia. It replaces the original chassis of the base vehicle with a lightweight ladder frame chassis, set lower down, and with independent rear suspension. This generates a significant number of advantages.

Firstly, it creates a better driving experience with enhanced roll stability and a lower entry height (up to 220 mm) for the motorhome. Secondly, the lower chassis height can permit a lower overall vehicle height, or be used to construct a false floor above it, with useful space between. This space can accommodate heaters and tanks, or simply be used as additional storage space.

The rear suspension is based on torsion bars, which are much more compact than leaf springs, thereby allowing the height reduction. If needed, the suspension can be uprated with air springs to allow heavier loads and a more compliant ride.

Other advantages of the AMC include its lightweight construction, which saves up to 50 kg in weight, allowing for a greater vehicle payload. Also, full galvanising meaning that rust should never be a problem. What’s more, the chassis can easily be fitted with additional support brackets specific to the motorhome that will be built upon it.

this mock-up clearly demonstrates how much lower the galvanised

compared to the original white chassis on the left

220,000

vehicles

The AMC chassis dates back to 1979 when it was developed for the Peugeot J9 van. It wasn’t until 1985 that it became available for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer and Citroen Jumper. Today it is also available for VW’s T6 Transporter and Mercedes’ Sprinter vehicles. According to AL-KO’s website over 220,000 such vehicles have been fitted with the AMC chassis to date.

Many are fixed to their cabs at AL-KO’s production facility in Ettenbeuren, Germany, shown here on the left.

Truma Combi space and water heater

When Truma launched its Combi heater back in 2007, little did they realise just how popular it was going to be. It was the successor to the Tru matic C, launched in 1994, which was essentially a blown air heater with a water jacket, designed for motorhomes. The Trumatic C was great success, with some 500,000 being built, but it was quite bulky and heavy, and it wouldn’t fit under a standard bunk. The Combi changed all that, with a complete redesign that saw the burner change from vertical to horizontal along with many other improvements. More compact and lightweight, the Combi became available in 2-,4- and 6-kW versions. Each has the option of electric heating elements to provide a dual fuel capability. It was soon joined by a diesel-powered version

which, at 15.8 kg, claimed to be the lightest and most efficient diesel combination heater on the market. The Combi was an instant hit with motorhome manufacturers but one touring caravan manufacturer spotted its potential too. Coachman in the UK (now part of the Swedish Kabe group) liked the fact that it eliminated the need for a gas fire, thereby saving weight and creating usable space for other things. What’s more the Combi could be programmed to go on and off as needed. The only issue was how it might perform off-grid with just battery power available. Tests showed this would not be a problem and so, in 2012, Truma’s Combi boiler was fitted to all but Coachman’s top of the range models (which had Alde hydronic heating).

The cassette toilet

Whilst Thetford’s Porta Potti toilet made a huge impact on the camping market following its introduction in 1968, it was their C1/C2 bench toilet in 1987 that really revolutionised the market.

Not only was it permanently fixed in the RV but it was self-contained and could be fully serviced via a hatch from outside the vehicle. It was true game changer as it abolished the need to have toilet chemicals inside the vehicle or to carry the black waste container through it. It’s important to remember that, at this time, formaldehyde with its all-pervading smell, was still a main ingredient. The C1 prototype went into production as the C2 and became an instant hit with end users such that, from then on, RV manufacturers began to design fully fitted washrooms as opposed to just toilet compartments for portable toilets. Many clever designs emerged with folding sinks and built-in showers. The RV experience had suddenly become much more home-like, and it remains so today.

The cassette bench toilet was a huge step forward but it did restrict washroom, design somewhat. The next milestone came in 1993 with the introduction of Thetford’s C200 swivel bowl toilet. In its own way this was just as ground breaking as the C2. It gave RV designers much more freedom with washroom layouts than the previous bench design. This was because the toi-

let could be positioned wherever there was space on an outside wall and the bowl swivelled into a comfortable position for use.

Recent past and near future

Global appliance manufacturer, Dometic, introduced their own RV cassette toilets in 2008 – the CT 3000 series. These were similar in principle to those from Thetford although it was not until the CT 4000 series in 2015 that swivel bowls were introduced. From the start one interesting innovation was the option of a scratch and stain resistant ceramic inlay for the plastic bowl, something Thetford has recently launched with its ‘Twusch’ insert.

Recent years have seen increasing interest in other types of toilet, such as Thetford’s INDUS system and separating /diverting toilets. Nevertheless, the cassette toilet looks likely to retain its pole position for many years to come.

Other caravan manufacturers quickly followed suit and today the Combi can be found in many touring caravans as well as countless motorhomes and campers.

The Combi fits neatly under a standard bunk

How to improve it?

The Combi was such a good design it has remained largely unchanged from 2007 until now, although an enhanced diesel version was launched in 2022. However, at the 2024 Caravan Salon, Truma’s owner, Alexander Wottrich, announced that an improved version would be launched in the coming months. As he put it “Many have tried to improve on the Combi, but we have succeeded”. We look forward to reporting on it in this magazine.

Hybrid Class A by THOR Industries to be launched in 2025

THOR Industries has unveiled the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome, the THOR Test Vehicle. The class A is built on an electric vehicle (EV) platform developed by EV manufacturer Harbinger. THOR and Harbinger collaborated to integrate a low-emissions gasoline range extender that can recharge the electric battery system, delivering an estimated 500 miles of range. Models utilizing the hybrid platform will be commercially available in 2025 from the THOR family of companies and are expected to qualify as a Near-Zero Emission Vehicle (NZEV) under the Advanced Clean Truck legislation, adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). The hybrid chassis is powered by a

Flash News

Don Clark, President of Grand Design RV, has been promoted to Group President, Towable RVs for Winnebago.

According to Winnebago Industries, Clark will lead the brand’s towable RV division while still serving Grand Design RV in this expanded role. The announcement was effective November 1.

“Don is a hall-of-famer with an unmatched track record of understanding the RV industry, especially the towable RV market,” said Michael Happe, Winnebago Industries President and CEO.

“Don’s insights and operational acumen of what it takes to win in this space make him the ideal choice to lead the team during their next evolution.”

The Campground Conference & Trade Show is scheduled for March 3 to 5, 2025, in Lake Buena Vista, FL.

Formerly the Mid-Atlantic Conference & Trade Show, the event brings together campground owners, operators, staff and various members of the outdoor hospitality industry. While a full schedule is still being finalized, those registered can expect a variety of highlights including seminars, training sessions, and a trade show presenting the latest products and services.

140-kWh battery pack, a low-emissions gasoline range extender that recharges the battery, and solar rooftop. The platform’s 800-volt electrical architecture allows for rapid charging at DC Fast Charger locations, which facilitates more time on the road. The batteries can be charged at traditional campsites, via the range extender, and solar power, whether on the road or off-grid camping. The hybrid platform can also serve as a backup home power source and could one day allow owners to sell power stored in the vehicle back to the grid.

The platform’s design innovations go beyond the powertrain. Harbinger’s chassis includes all major vehicle systems of an electric vehicle.

A partnership for Airxcel and Meyer Distributing

Meyer Distributing has announced a new partnership with Airxcel to distribute the company’s Coleman-Mach, Suburban, Maxxair, Velarium and Invision products. Based in Jasper, IN, Meyer Distributing has 108 locations, over 3,500,000 square feet of warehouse space, and a vast delivery network to reach dealers across the U.S. and Canada. Airxcel’s series of brands in the partnership represents a variety of interior

and exterior components for heating, cooling, ventilation, as well as window coverings and roofing products.

“Airxcel is excited to expand its relationship with Meyer Distributing,” says Piar Adams, Vice President of Marketing, Aftermarket and International Sales at Airxcel. “Their reputation and service to the RV dealer network is commendable, and we look forward to a long, prosperous partnership.”

SylvanSport eyes future growth

SylvanSport recently celebrated the groundbreaking of a 40,000-square-foot expansion project at its global headquarters in Brevard, NC. The new development at The Sylvan Valley Industrial Center (SVIC) is led by the Transylvania Economic Alliance (TEA) and was devised to bolster future growth of SylvanSport’s manufacturing capacities for its adventure travel trailers, pop-up campers, rooftop tents, and outdoor gear. The project will be completed by Summer 2025. “The SVIC embodies the thought leadership and vision to live where we play

and drive diverse economic growth and further connection to the outdoors,” said Tom Dempsey, founder and CEO of SylvanSport. “The SVIC expansion delivers on that vision.”

News from the world GERMANY

Flash News

Peter Hirtschulz

German Caravanning promotion

The German caravanning market remains at a high level despite challenging conditions.

In the period from January to July 2024, a total of 67,681 leisure vehicles were newly registered, which corresponds to an increase of 7.2 per cent compared to the previous year. The continuing trend towards individual and flexible holidays with motorhomes or caravans is strengthening the German economy and domestic tourism. The motorhome segment in particular stands out, recording an increase of 9.8 per cent with 52,724 new registrations. New caravan registrations remained stable at 14,957 units (-1.1 per cent).

This year, the DCHV (German Caravanning Trade Association) is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

DCHV-President Kai Dhonau commented: ‘As the association of the German caravanning trade, we have been committed to promoting and protecting the interests of our members for over five decades. Together, we are working towards a sustainable and successful future for the caravanning industry. We attach great importance to cooperation and dialogue between our members and with other relevant players in the industry and politics. Our aim is also to promote caravanning in Germany and Europe in the best possible way.

The DCHV currently represents 426 members nationwide, is supported by 98 sponsoring members and represents a market volume of 1.7 million leisure vehicles

The German Caravanning-Industry, the trade partners and the camping industry are sending out a clear signal in favour of a future-oriented direction for the caravanning sector. In order to strengthen the future of the camping and caravanning industry in Germany, the Federal Association of the Camping Industry in Germany (BVCD), the Caravanning Industry Association

(CIVD) and the German Caravanning Trade Association (DCHV) have agreed to work more closely together. This co-operation was announced on the occasion of CARAVAN SALON. With over 3,200 campsites, 5,400 motorhome pitches, over 68 million overnight stays and an industry turnover of around 34.5 billion euros per year, the caravanning industry is a key tourism and economic factor in Germany. By signing the co-operation agreement, the industry associations are laying the foundations for a clear strategy that will further consolidate the importance of camping tourism as a key part of the German tourism market and drive forward important industry topics such as the expansion of infrastructure.

Minister for Economic Affairs visits Hymer production facility in Bad Waldsee

Hymer has been welcomed Baden-Württemberg’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Dr Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, to its headquarters in Bad Waldsee. She was accompanied by Mayor Matthias Henne, Member of the State Parliament Raimund Haser (CDU), and CDU City Association Chairman Maximilian Klingele. The Minister’s visit centred on the newly constructed sandwich panel manufacturing, where the topping-out ceremony had taken place just days earlier. The tour, led by Hans-Georg Rauh, Managing Director of Technology, also included Markus Dorner, Managing Director of Finance, Christian Bauer, President of Hymer GmbH & Co. KG and Alexander Leopold, CEO of the Erwin Hymer Group. The visitors were particularly interested in the new facility, which, with its state-of-the-art infrastructure, is designed to streamline production processes and meet the demands of future developments in motorhome manufacturing.

“The spirit of innovation is unmistakable across this site,” Hoffmeister-Kraut affirmed: “For decades, Hymer has been a driving force behind the region’s continuous growth, and its forward-looking investments have strengthened our position as an attractive hub for technology and industry. Germany’s current economic conditions are more challenging than ever. Politics and industry must work together to refocus on preserving value creation and employment.”

Hymer’s investment in an 8,300-square-metre plant expansion underscores its significance to the regional economy.

News from the world AUSTRALIA

Rv Master Manufacturer Program

The RV Master Manufacturer Program is revolutionizing the recreational vehicle (RV) industry in Victoria, introducing an unprecedented “whole-of-business” accreditation standard for manufacturers. This program, exclusive to Caravan Industry Victoria members with at least seven years of experience in manufacturing, is designed to elevate industry benchmarks and build long-term consumer trust. The accreditation process evaluates businesses across five critical pillars: Business Systems, Quality Management, Customer Service, Human Resources, and Compliance. Each aspect is assessed by industry experts, providing manufacturers with a detailed rating that reflects their overall business performance. The system emphasizes financial viability, robust customer support, and long-term business sustainability, ensuring only the most reliable and ethical manufacturers earn the RV Master title. By setting these rigorous standards, the program fosters continuous improvement within the sector. Accredited manufacturers gain the prestigious RV Master logo, signaling their commitment to excellence and giving consumers confidence in their products and services. This initiative also serves as a model of self-regulation, enabling the industry to take charge of its growth and address challenges proactively. The RV Master Manufacturer Pro-

Successful Partnership with Tourism NT

The Caravan Industry Association of Australia celebrates the success of its partnership with Tourism NT, inspiring caravanners and campers to explore the Northern Territory. This campaign engaged over 460 local businesses, generating 55,000 entries and encouraging 29% of participants to extend their stays while 44% enjoyed new tourism experiences. Congratulations to the Hyslop family, winners of the campaign, showcasing the joy of multi-generational caravanning adventures. A heartfelt thanks to all partners for contributing to this milestone, which strengthens the industry and promotes a passion for lifelong caravanning.

gram represents a comprehensive effort to not only enhance product quality but also establish a framework for business integrity. Participating companies are required to uphold the Caravan Industry Victoria code of ethics and commit to ongoing training and skills development, ensuring they remain at the fore-

front of innovation and best practices. This visionary program aims to create a sustainable future for the RV sector by prioritizing transparency, accountability, and customer satisfaction. By raising the bar, it encourages all industry players to strive for excellence, contributing to a vibrant and resilient RV industry.

Jayco Boosts Dealer Network with SugarCRM

Jayco, Australia’s largest RV manufacturer, has partnered with SugarCRM to transform its sales, marketing, and service capabilities across its 29 dealerships. With over 200,000 Australian-made vehicles crafted to date, Jayco aims to unify its dealer network and deliver exceptional customer experiences by leveraging data-driven insights and automation tools provided by SugarCRM. SugarCRM’s platform allows Jayco to centralize data from marketing, sales, and after-sales activities, providing a connected workspace for seamless communication between the company’s headquarters and its dealer network. This integration also connects to key applications such as dealer management systems, simplifying operations and improving efficiency. By using Sugar Sell, Market, and Serve, Jayco has gained real-time insights into customer behavior, enabling targeted campaigns and personalized service.

The impact of this integration is significant. Jayco Adelaide, for instance, eliminated the need for six separate systems, resulting in a 50% increase in email open rates and more effective marketing strategies. For the broader network, sales teams now enter customer conversations with comprehensive knowledge, leading to a 7% improvement in win rates. After-sales teams benefit from a unified dashboard that consolidates customer histories, enabling them to provide proactive and tailored support.

Moreover, the centralized system simplifies the management of complex tax regulations for international dealers and enhances collaboration across teams. This streamlined approach ensures that every customer interaction is consistent and high-quality, strengthening loyalty and driving repeat business. Jayco’s dealerships are now better equipped to understand market trends and customer preferences, reinforcing their position as leaders in the RV sector.

News from the world FRANCE

Paolo Galvani

French RV market: strong growth in new registrations, shifts in consumer trends

The latest data from UNI VDL highlights year-over-year trends in the French recreational vehicle (RV) market as of September 2024. By focusing on the annual changes in registrations for new and used motorhomes, vans, and caravans, this analysis provides insights into the market’s shifting dynamics.

New RV Registrations

• Motorhomes (Including Vans): Increased by 8.07% over the past year,

Trigano gains approval for Bio Habitat acquisition

Trigano announces it has received clearance from the French Competition Authority to acquire 100% of the share capital and voting rights of BIO Habitat and its subsidiary, BIO Habitat Italia. With its brands O’Hara, IRM, and Coco Sweet, Groupe Beneteau’s Housing division is a key player in the manufacturing of mobile homes for Europe’s outdoor hospitality sector. The company is profitable, employs 900 people across seven production sites in France and Italy, and achieved a turnover of €319.6 million in 2023. This acquisition aligns with Trigano’s development strategy in the growing leisure vehicles and equipment market. It offers synergies, particularly in purchasing, logistics, and manufacturing processes, and will enable Trigano to consolidate its leadership in the European leisure vehicle industry. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2024.

reaching a total of 25,580 registrations.

• Motorhomes Only: Showed significant growth, up by 12.34%.

• Vans: Registered a moderate increase of 5.00%.

• Caravans:

• New Caravans: Experienced a 3.16% rise, reflecting steady demand.

• Used Caravans: Declined by 4.80%, highlighting challenges in the secondary market.

Used RV Registrations

• Motorhomes: Recorded 66,102 registrations, a decline of 2.78% year-overyear.

• Caravans: Continued their downward trend, with a 4.80% decrease.

The French RV market demonstrates a dynamic landscape, with notable growth in new motorhomes and vans. Registrations for new motorhomes have experienced a robust double-digit increase, complemented by steady growth in

vans, signaling strong consumer interest in versatile travel options that align with modern preferences. However, the used RV segment has faced difficulties, with both motorhomes and caravans experiencing declines. This trend may indicate a shift in buyer preferences towards new vehicles or evolving consumer expectations that impact the appeal of preowned options. Meanwhile, caravans have shown mixed results: new caravans achieved modest growth, but the ongoing decline in the used caravan category highlights persistent challenges for this segment. Year-over-year data underscores the importance of addressing these contrasting trends. The positive momentum in new vehicle registrations, particularly among motorhomes, offers an opportunity for the industry to capitalize on its strengths. At the same time, the decline in the used vehicle market reflects changing consumer behaviors that manufacturers and dealers must navigate thoughtfully.

France’s largest motorhome dealer network launches 24/7 customer service programme

Libertium, the largest recreational vehicle distribution network in France, is launching Libertium Assistance, an innovative, tailor-made 24/7 assistance service designed to simplify the lives of any customer who buys a new or used motorhome from its network. This service is available for 24 months and Libertium says it marks a new era in supporting customers. Libertium Assistance reaffirms its commitment to being at its customers’ side, everywhere and at all times. Thanks to its network of 64 dealerships and its team of qualified technicians, Libertium Assistance offers telephone support available at all times to

respond to any emergency or technical question, as well as recommendations for finding suitable parking areas. Libertium can provide assistance throughout France (excluding Corsica) for the diagnosis, repair and maintenance of motorhomes and can arrange an appointment with one of its dealers or an approved repairer near the location of the customer.

“At Libertium, our goal is to support our customers at every stage of their adventure, becoming their preferred partner. We offer complete solutions, from purchase to assistance, to guarantee a stress-free travel experience,” says Libertium.

News from the world UK

David Guest

Family-run dealer to close after 53 years

One of the UK’s foremost caravan dealerships, Greentrees Caravanstore, is closing following the decision of its owners to retire. Started in 1971 by Keith Greentree, the business in Norfolk has been run by Keith’s two sons Neil and Justyn since 1996. It will close on 31 October 2024.

Managing Director, Neil Greentree, said: “Myself and my brother Justyn are immensely proud of the company we have built up together, and the levels of service we have provided over the years, but after more than 50 years in the business the family are looking to retire and pursue new interests.

“The Greentree family would like to thank all of their partners over the

Flash News

Slovenian campervan brand Mega Mobil is expanding into the UK leisure vehicle market.

Known for its customisable and high-quality campervans, the company showcased its products at the Motorhome and Caravan Show in Birmingham via its importer Mega Mobil UK. It has also partnered with three UK dealers, Go European Motorhomes Ltd, Select Motorhomes Ltd, and Kimberley Caravans and Motorhomes, to establish a foothold in the market.

UK wholesaler Miriad Quest Leisure has appointed Alastair Thomas as its new CEO.

Alastair has worked in the leisure industry for his entire career and recently sold his wholesale business Arleigh International to an American buyer. He takes over from previous CEO Penny Whitelock. Alastair said: “I have always admired the Miriad business, and this new opportunity comes at a very exciting time for the company and for me personally.”

years, our remarkable staff, and most importantly the customers we have served over the last 53 years. Being an entrepreneurial family, I’m sure we will continue to be around the caravan scene in Norfolk in the future but in a more supportive role rather than being ‘on the coal face’.”

The company is now working closely with its partners and customers to honour all of its commitments and offering full support to its staff in their search for new employment. It plans to sell or lease all of its premises.

New hires to boost NCC

The UK’s leisure vehicle industry body, the National Caravan Council, has made two significant appointments to its senior leadership team.

Simon McGrath has joined as Director of Communications and Stakeholder Engagement, while Robert White will become Director of Technical Services.

Simon is vastly experienced in the caravan industry having pre viously worked as the Head of Communications and External Relations at the Camping and Caravanning Club. His background in journalism means he offers specialist communication skills and a deep passion for the industry.

NCC Director General, John Lally, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Simon to our team. With his extensive experience and impressive track record in driving success within our industry, we are confident that his work will be pivotal as we continue to navigate this dynamic and transformative period. His expertise and leadership will undoubtedly enhance our offering to our members.”

Meanwhile, Robert White will be responsible for overseeing technical services in the holiday caravan and park home sectors that the NCC also represents.

Bailey expands following diversification

One of the UK’s leading caravan and motorhome manufacturers, Bailey of Bristol, has recently expanded its field sales operation to meet growing demand following its diversification into new markets.

The company has hired two new business development executives, Barry McGuinness and Adrian Felkin, as it seeks to

better serve its 60-strong outlet retail network, which has grown steadily following Bailey’s expansion into the campervan market with the launch of the Endeavour range in autumn 2023.

Barry and Adrian will work alongside Head of Caravan Sales Ben Pointon, Head of Motorhome and Campervan Sales Alan Freeman, and Aftercare Executive Claire Hill.

Ian Rawlings, Bailey’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “We are delighted to welcome Barry and Adrian to the Bailey Sales Team. Their arrival will allow us to work more closely with our retail partners, ensuring that we continue to provide the high level of service and support that Bailey is known for.”