"The European motorhome industry is working hard to provide customers with what they want"

Motorhome registrations up 14% year-on- year as younger buyers head to the forecourts

The UK motorhome market continues its upward rise. The total number of new registrations in the 12 months to the end of June 2017 was up by 14%, according to figures just released by the NCC (National Caravan Council). In total, 13,162 motorhomes were registered between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2017, against 11,559 in the same period across the previous years.

This continuing upward trajectory bucks the overall trend in automotive sales in the UK, which have dropped during Qs 1 & 2 of 2017. Growth in motorhome sales is also being seen in other countries in Europe, according to the European Caravan Federation with the UK leading the way amongst the four major markets (Germany, France, UK, Italy).

Commenting on the latest figures, John Lally, the NCC’s Director General, said: “The European motorhome industry is working hard to provide customers with what they want – innovative and stylish products at great prices. There is also a strong view in the industry that certain sectors of the motorhome market – particularly van conversions – are now successfully appealing to a younger audience.

“In a recent small-scale survey we undertook at dealerships, 20% confirmed that they were seeing younger buyers purchasing motorhomes. There are a couple of obvious reasons for this – first vehicles, particularly the smaller ‘value’ models that offer a lot of flexibility, are being designed with a younger demographic in mind.

Secondly, Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) has recently become more widely available, making vehicles more affordable for young couples.

“Lastly, our holiday behaviour is changing. ‘Staycationing’ is retaining its appeal and popularity. The ONS survey into British holidaying habits released today shows we are going on more frequent, shorter holidays. While this trait is attributed in part to budget airlines, motorhomes are ideal for short breaks and weekends away and, of course, for facilitating outdoor pursuits. In all, they are perfect for the way we holiday today.”

Ends

Notes for Editors:
The NCC (National Caravan Council) is the trade body for the UK caravan industry comprising touring caravans, motorhomes, caravan holiday homes and residential park homes. The NCC represents some 850 member outlets within manufacturing, park operations, distribution and retail, and in the provision of specialist suppliers and services within the UK caravan industry, which is worth more than £6 billion per annum (sale of products, services and holiday spend).

All figures quoted are based on new registrations submitted to DVLA, interpreted by the NCC; 13,162 motorhomes were registered between 1 July 2016 and 30 June 2017; 11,559 motorhomes were registered between 1 July 2015 and 30 June 2016. Further details about the NCC can be found on its website, www.thencc.org.uk.

Media contact: please email: louise.w@thencc.org.uk or call 07824 994690