AS Group, the British company that comprises motorhome brand Auto-Sleepers and leisure vehicle dealer network Marquis Leisure, has named Alan Buckwell as its new Managing Director.
Alan will take over from Mike Crouch, who has taken the decision to retire after 48 years of service to the company – the change will be effective from 1 January 2027.
With a successful track record in sales and marketing strategy, Alan first joined AS Group’s retail division, Marquis Leisure, in 2001. He was appointed as Sales Director in 2008, and most recently became Deputy Managing Director in 2025 when the group underwent a management restructure.
“I am delighted to appoint Alan as Managing Director of AS Group,” said AS Group CEO Geoff Scott. “As someone who is already widely known and respected throughout the industry, he needs little introduction. Alan was the outstanding candidate for the role. His depth of knowledge, experience and understanding of our industry, combined with his expertise across both retail and manufacturing product development, will ensure a smooth and seamless transition from Mike's leadership.
“I wish Alan every success in his new position. My heartfelt thanks go to Mike for his lifelong contribution to the business, and I wish him and his wife Dawn every happiness, health and enjoyment in retirement.”
The company, which is part of the Trigano Group, says it remains focused on building on its momentum through investment in product innovation, customer experience, and strategic growth initiatives. It also claims to have ambitious plans for the future, which Alan will inevitably be part of.
“I am honoured to take on this role and will do everything I can to ensure AS Group continues to evolve and thrive for many decades to come,” Alan said. “Over the past quarter-century, I have enjoyed an outstanding working relationship with Mike Crouch, who has consistently encouraged, mentored and championed my development within the business. I will retain many fond memories and stories from our journey together at AS Group, and I am grateful to be entrusted with the stewardship of the legacy that Mike has worked so hard to create.”
Mike Crouch added: “It has been a privilege, an honour and an immensely rewarding experience to work within the motorhome and caravan industry. I have enjoyed meeting so many interesting people and have been fortunate to travel and explore with the products of our industry. As a result, it has never felt like a lifetime of hard work, but rather a journey of fulfilment.
“It seems a lifetime ago, and indeed it was, that I helped lay the foundations upon which today's AS Group has been built. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of my colleagues, past and present, as well as the many business associates and longstanding friends within the industry, for the support and friendship I have received throughout the years.”
