What are the trends in the camping industry? Yesterday, Wednesday 6 September 2023, the Elmia Husvagn Husbil trade fair opened. In connection with this, a press conference was held, where we learned more about trends in the industry.
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Press conference at Elmia Caravan Motorhome
When Elmia Husvagn Husbil opened, a press conference was held where Elmia presented its industry survey on the current situation and forecast for the future. At the same time, a number of industry representatives were present to discuss and give their views.
A hot second-hand market
New vehicle registrations are down compared to last year, but the second-hand market is hot. In fact, 9 out of 10 vehicles sold are second-hand. Even though new registrations have dropped, there is no concern about the future. Interest in mobile life is at a record high and many have continued the active lifestyle they acquired during the pandemic.
Trends in the camping industry
So what are the trends in the camping industry? Some trends that were presented and discussed were:
- Larger retailers with more brands - It is not unusual to represent twice as many brands today as ten years ago. However, for financial reasons, it can be more difficult for small retailers.
- Caravans and vans/trailers - This industry is growing throughout Europe, partly because it is economical and partly because it is practical in cities. The range is increasing and many small caravans are very nice. Pop-up roofs are also a trend: at the big camping fair 'Caravan Salon' in Düsseldorf, a whole hall of caravans was on display.
- Caravans for electric cars - The area is developing, although travelling with caravans and electric cars can still be challenging.
- Electric motorhomes - Developments have come a long way and there are electric motorhomes that are very good at holding electricity, including in the US. The problem is the weight. The weight has to go up to 4250 for it to be possible.
- Mobile accommodation for all seasons - Interest in winter camping is fairly constant over the years. There is a potential. By the way, winter camping can be anything from camping with skiing to city camping.
- New target groups - People who are interested in the outdoors, but also those who are travelling south and, for example, alternate with hotel accommodation.
Elmia Caravan Motorhome 2023
The fair Elmia Husvagn Husbil 2023 has started really well! There are more exhibitors than before, the fair campsite is fully booked and the fair had to open 15 minutes before the actual opening time, because the queue towards Elmia was so long ...!
One of the novelties at this year's fair is Destination Squarewhich is organised in cooperation with FREEDOMtravel. The Destination Square brings together exhibitors focusing on where to travel.
What trends in the camping industry do you see?
What trends in the camping industry do you see? Do you agree with the trends described above, do you recognise them?
Lena - good for the soul says:
Hehe, fun to see the last picture. This is what my parents' first vehicle looked like when I was a child. The Volvo was blue and the Polar was probably slightly larger than the one in the picture. 470 I want to remember.
Have realised that the second-hand market is still really hot. We have started to look at motorhomes and a little bit started to plan for a purchase in the future. 🙂
Hug Lena
07 September 2023 - 21:20