Demand for motorhomes soar – but stock shortages continue
A motorhome company has seen a 700 per cent increase in demand for its rentals this year compared to two years ago.
The Motorhome Holiday Company has a waiting list of people looking for late availability as people have cancelled foreign trips – and has more than doubled its marketing list.
And the firm, which specialises in hiring and selling luxury motorhomes and a great customer experience, has also seen a change in its client-base.
Managing director Matt Sims said: “We used to deal mostly with retirees. Now we are seeing more people in their early 20s, looking for adventure, or families with young children.
The father-of-four, whose children help out at the shop and online, added: “It’s not just about the travel, but the experience. It’s about spending quality time with your loved ones in a setting of your choosing.”
Campervan and caravan dealers are reporting booming sales, according to Car Dealer magazine.
Limited stock
But global supply chain problems – linked to Brexit, Covid and huge demand – have led to stock shortages.
Matt said prices were rising by 60 per cent and he has had to wait up to four months for some parts for motorhomes, particularly those coming from outside of the UK.
It includes specialist components for motorhome appliances, such as fridges and heating systems, which are a special type, shape and colour.
He said: “We have to act quickly to secure stock, which is going up in price. We’ve ordered some parts which were promised six-week delivery – then took nearly four months to arrive.”
Growing audience
The National Caravan Council says there are 225,000 motorhomes in Britain – and sales have tripled since 2000.
The Motorhome Holiday Company has also launched the Staycation Inspiration magazine, which is available for free in digital format.
The motorhome, touring caravan and caravan holiday home industry contributes £6 billion a year to the UK economy, according to the National Caravan Council.
It also employs in excess of 130,000 people, including part time and seasonal staff.
There are reported to be more than 1 million leisure accommodation vehicles in use in the UK – with an estimated 2 million people taking such a holiday each year.
