Despite dampened consumer sentiment and a slowing economy, the German caravanning industry has reported a good half-year result overall: with 57,893 new registrations in the first six months, the German leisure vehicle market recorded an increase of 6.6 per cent compared to the same period last year.

New motor caravan registrations have been well above pre-corona levels, however, the caravan segment recorded a slight decline.

The motor caravan segment exceeded the previous year’s result with 45,344 new registrations (+9.3 per cent). New caravan registrations fell slightly by 2 per cent to 12,549 units, but remained stable overall.

A continued high level of interest in caravanning and the improved availability of vehicles give the industry a positive outlook for the start of the world’s leading trade fair CARAVAN SALON in Düsseldorf (30 August to 8 September 2024).

The main driver of the positive trend is the motor caravan segment, which achieved an increase of 9.3 per cent with 45,344 new registrations and remains well above the pre-pandemic level. Thanks to improved vehicle availability, demand for larger motor caravan models in particular is on the rise again. The previous shortage of chassis for semi-integrated and fully integrated motor caravans, which impaired production for years, has improved significantly in the recent past.

The caravan segment recorded 12,549 new registrations (-2 per cent) in the first half of the year, just below the previous year’s result, but is settling at a stable level in the long term.

Overall, the supply situation for customers has improved considerably over the last 12 to 16 months. Models of all types and sizes can once again be produced and delivered relatively reliably, and waiting times for customised vehicles have fallen significantly compared to previous years.

As a result, dealerships now have a very broad range of vehicles again after several years of very limited supply.

The overall positive development of the market is evidence of the long-term trend in the industry, as CIVD Managing Director Daniel Onggowinarso explains: ‘Caravanning has been one of the most popular forms of holiday for Germans for a long time, as self-determined travel in harmony with nature is becoming increasingly important. The crises of recent years have also fuelled the desire for individuality and flexibility in leisure time.’

According to Daniel Onggowinarso, it is currently more worthwhile than ever for interested customers to visit a dealership: ‘After several years of limited supply, dealerships now have a lot to offer customers again, as vehicle manufacturers are once again able to supply caravans and motor caravans to the usual extent. The wide range of products on offer has been very well received by customers. Despite the rainy spring and the generally gloomy consumer mood, the dealerships are attracting many interested customers who are not only specifically looking for information on caravans and motor caravans, but also have definite buying intentions.’

With the CARAVAN SALON in Düsseldorf, which takes place from 30 August (Preview Day) to 8 September 2024, the industry’s annual highlight is just around the corner. ‘The CARAVAN SALON in Düsseldorf is the world’s largest and most important trade fair for the caravanning industry. A visit to Düsseldorf is worthwhile for both newcomers and experienced camping enthusiasts, as nowhere else can you find the entire product diversity of our industry gathered in one place and experience the latest products and innovations up close,’ explains Daniel Onggowinarso.