Italy’s premier caravanning and motorhome exhibition, Salone del Camper, is set to begin this weekend against a backdrop of an Italian RV market that is enjoying a steady period of growth and prosperity, according to the latest figures.

During the first four months of 2026, an impressive 4,050 new motorhomes were registered in Italy, which is almost 15 per cent more than the same period in 2025, and ahead of the average growth figure for Europe, which stands at approximately 10 per cent.

This growth curve means that the Italian industry descends on the Fiere di Parma for Salone del Camper from 12 to 20 September this year for the 17^th edition of the event in a buoyant mood.

“A campervan holiday responds to the needs of personalisation of experiences: it is a freer, more flexible and modular way of travel. It allows you to choose times and itineraries, reach authentic places far from large flows and manage shopping along the journey, enriching local communities”, said Gloria Oppici, Brand Manager of the Salone del Camper.

“The growth of registrations confirms that this form of holiday is a decisive component for the growth of Italian tourism.”

Behind Italy’s motorhome registration growth is a strong manufacturing industry, with the country being the third-largest European manufacturer of leisure vehicles after Germany and France, with 80 per cent of Italian-made vehicles destined for export.

The production is not only supported by manufacturers: the supply chain includes companies specialised in chassis, components, accessories, equipment and services for recreational vehicles.

In 2025, Salone del Camper attracted 107,000 visitors to Parma, with more than 310 exhibitors from 22 countries present on the show floor – organisers will be hoping for a similarly strong performance this year, for which the show will have one of its broadest-ever offerings and many additional experiential programmes for visitors.

Figures from the Associazione Produttori Caravan e Camper (APC).

Stellantis Pro One, the commercial vehicle business unit of automotive giant Stellantis, has revealed a new visual identity, including a new logo that it says embodies the evolution of the business and its ambitions for the future.

The modern reworking of the logo is designed to express the identity of Stellantis Pro One, according to the company, and embodies the strengths that have driven the business’s success while looking ahead to the future of professional mobility.

It will help deliver a consistent and recognisable architecture across the Stellantis Pro One ecosystem and will be seamlessly extended to strategic initiatives such as Stellantis Pro One CustomFit, Stellantis Pro One NEXT and future customer-focused programs, reinforcing their connection to the broader Pro One vision.

“A clear vision for the future requires an identity that reflects progress and direction,” said Eric Laforge, Global Senior Vice President of Stellantis Pro One.

“Our new logo reflects how Stellantis Pro One has evolved and where we are heading next. Guided by our FaSTLAne 2030 strategy, we are building an increasingly integrated ecosystem of vehicles, services, connected solutions and network designed around the needs of professional customers. The new identity reflects both the strength of what we have achieved and our determination to go even further in the years ahead.”

To be introduced across all Stellantis Pro One communications, digital platforms, and customer-facing materials worldwide, the new logo comes into effect immediately and will be prominently featured at IAA Transportation Hannover, September 14, 2026.

American RV company Forest River has announced that Todd Martin is retiring from the position of General Manager at its travel trailer brand Puma, effective 2 October.

Todd (pictured) helped launch the Puma brand back in 2003, and has helped it grow from zero dealers through to approximately 140,000 units produced, helping generations of American families enjoy the RV lifestyle.  

Todd has held numerous positions at Forest River throughout his time with the company – in addition to leading Puma, he has overseen Puma’s laminated travel trailer division and the Palomino Overlanding division, which includes Pause travel trailers and Palomino truck campers.

A leadership transition will take place following Todd’s retirement, in which Shawn Kaylor will become General Manager of Puma stick-and-tin travel trailers, while Austin Groves will become general manager of the Palomino Overlanding division consisting of Pause travel trailers and Palomino truck campers.

Joe French, who has served as Rockwood's Southeast sales representative, has been promoted to sales manager for PUMA.

“Todd built PUMA around consistency, quality, and strong dealer relationships,” said Shawn Kaylor. “He led by example, treated people fairly, and gave his team the freedom to make decisions while always being there when they needed him. He has had a tremendous impact on this team, this brand, and the people who have had the opportunity to work with him.”

Fred Hershberger, Forest River Group General Manager, added: “Todd has always been a leader people wanted to work with. His approach was simple. Treat people fairly, lead with kindness, and build a quality product our dealer partners can count on. That legacy will continue well beyond his retirement.”

Aluminium manufacturing expert Euramax and its shareholder Imker Group have reached an agreement in principle to acquire a majority stake in Spanish aluminium manufacturer Eco Bierzo Composite.

The proposed partnership is designed to bring together two leading aluminium businesses with complementary capabilities to accelerate international growth for both parties.

Euramax, which is headquartered in Roermond, the Netherlands, is a leading European manufacturer of coil-coated aluminium serving customers across the RV, transport and architecture markets, while Eco Bierzo Composite is located in Spain and produces aluminium composite panels and façade solutions marketed under the Stacbond brand.

Euramax will share its extensive experience in coil coating to generate synergies at Eco Bierzo Composite’s El Bierzo plant. This additional coating capability will complement Euramax’s existing operations and strengthen its ability to serve customers across Europe and international markets.

“This partnership marks an important next step for Stacbond,” said Jorge Pintor Prada, CEO of Eco Bierzo Composite. “With Euramax as a strong industrial partner, we will be able to accelerate our international growth while maintaining the customer focus, agility and product quality that have been fundamental to our success.”

Danny Kappen, CEO of Euramax, added: “We are very pleased to enter into this partnership with Stacbond. Our businesses are highly complementary, both industrially and commercially. By combining our respective strengths, we see significant opportunities to support further growth and create additional value for our customers.”

The transaction is expected to be completed later this month.

The 2026 edition of the leisure vehicle industry’s largest exhibition, Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, has concluded with an attendance of more than 259,000 visitors over its 10-day duration.

This figure is around 3.7 per cent down on the 269,000 visitors from the 2025 edition, which was the second-highest total ever recorded by the show.

A record 834 exhibitors from 41 different countries were present at the Messe Düsseldorf from 28 August to 6 September this year, showcasing a wide range of leisure vehicles, equipment, components, and accessories for the mobile living lifestyle.

Organisers say that the outcome of the Caravan Salon 2026 sends a strong signal at a time of a significantly more challenging economic climate, noticeable reluctance to make major investments and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

“The Caravan Salon has once again impressively demonstrated its importance for the entire caravanning industry. Particularly at a time when economic conditions are challenging and many people are more cautious about making major purchases, a strong industry gathering is of particular value,” said Marius Berlemann, Chief Operating Officer of Messe Düsseldorf.

“It is encouraging that around 50 per cent of all visitors travelled to Düsseldorf with a specific intention to buy. With its unique combination of product diversity, international reach, innovation and the visitor experience, the Caravan Salon reaffirms its leading position. It is in Düsseldorf that the crucial discussions take place, and it is here that the direction in which the caravanning industry is heading becomes clear. I would like to extend my very special thanks to the Caravaning Industry Association, as well as to all exhibitors and partners, who, through their commitment, passion and innovative spirit, breathe new life into the Caravan Salon year after year. And above all, I would like to thank all the visitors whose enthusiasm, curiosity and great passion for caravanning make this trade fair what it is: the vibrant meeting place for the community and a unique celebration for everyone who loves freedom on wheels.”

The positive sentiment about this year’s show was echoed by Bernd Löher, President of the Caravaning Industry Association (CIVD), who added: “This strong response also makes the Caravan Salon far more than just a showcase for new products. Manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, service providers and destinations all come together in Düsseldorf. This diversity is one of the trade fair’s great strengths, as it brings together the various sectors of our industry and facilitates professional dialogue on shared topics and challenges. Precisely because all the relevant stakeholders come together in one place here, we as an association use the Caravan Salon to drive forward key issues for the future in collaboration with the worlds of politics, tourism and business. These include reliable framework conditions for businesses and destinations, as well as an efficient tourism infrastructure and greater consideration of the specific requirements and potential of caravanning in political decision-making.”

The 2027 edition of Caravan Salon will take place in the Messe Düsseldorf from Friday 27 August to Sunday 5 September.

Main image: Messe Düsseldorf/CTillmann

Second image: David Guest

Aboutcamp BtoB is sad to report that Giuseppe Crippa, the founder of laminates, insulation, and materials producer Brianza Plastica Group, has passed away.

Mr Crippa founded the Italian company in 1962 to produce translucent laminates in fibreglass for commercial and industrial applications; the company quickly grew its production and expanded with sites in Italy and throughout Europe.

A statement by the Crippa family on the Brianza Plastica LinkedIn page said: “With immense sorrow and profound grief, we announce the passing of our father, the founder and soul of Brianza Plastica Group.

“Mr Giuseppe Crippa was an extraordinary leader, an enlightened point of reference, and an example of dedication and integrity for all of us.

“His vision and humanity have indelibly marked the history of our family and our company, leaving an unfillable void but also a moral and entrepreneurial legacy that we will honour every day through our work.”

The Brianza Plastica Group is now made up of three companies – Brianza Plastica S.p.A., Plasti-Bat S.a.s., and Brianza USA Corporation – and is a leader in the field of fibreglass laminates and industrial and civil insulation, with strong markets including the recreational vehicle industry and the mobile home industry.

Photo: Brianza Plastica/Crippa Family

Automotive group Stellantis has announced that Stephanie Hartgrove has been appointed as its new Chief Communications Officer.

With more than 20 years of global communications leadership experience under her belt, Stephanie previously worked for Johnson & Johnson, where she served as global vice president of MedTech communications and public affairs, advancing growth and reputation across the company’s diverse medical technology portfolio. She will report directly to Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa.

Alongside the appointment of Stephanie Hartgrove, Stellantis also announced that Clara Ingen-Housz has been hired as the company’s Head of Public Policy & Regulatory Strategy, International Trade – also reporting directly to Antonio Filosa.

This is a newly defined role for the company and will focus on its public policy, regulatory and trade strategy, and on supporting the CEO in institutional engagements.

“I am pleased to welcome Stephanie at an important time for Stellantis as we advance our FaSTLAne 2030 strategy. She brings deep international experience and a proven ability to strengthen reputation, build stakeholder trust and lead through change,” said Antonio Filosa.

“I also want to congratulate Clara on her leadership of Corporate Affairs and Corporate Communications over the past 19 months and thank her for taking on this important new responsibility. Together, these appointments will help ensure Stellantis speaks with a clear external voice and engages effectively on the issues that matter to our stakeholders.”

The 65th edition of Caravan Salon Düsseldorf has attracted 164,000 visitors for the first six days of its duration – an indicator that interest remains strong in caravanning, according to organisers.

“Up to and including Wednesday 2 September, 164,000 caravanning fans have already made their way to Düsseldorf,” said Caravan Salon Director Stefan Koschke.

“This impressively demonstrates the sheer level of enthusiasm for mobile travel and the interest in the latest developments in the industry. Our visitors arrive at the fair very well-informed and with specific ideas in mind. At the same time, we are experiencing the special atmosphere that defines the Caravan Salon: people who share a passion for caravanning meet manufacturers, dealers and experts from all over the world.”

Koschke went on to say that the hugely diverse range of brands, layouts, vehicle concepts, technical innovations, and equipment options on display at Caravan Salon help to attract visitors at a time when consumer confidence is at a relative low point.

“It is precisely this unique combination that makes the Caravan Salon so valuable to visitors,” he said. “It is therefore not only the caravanning world’s major showcase, but also the most important venue for direct comparison from the customer’s perspective and one of the industry’s most significant sales platforms.”

The positive sentiment was echoed by Daniel Onggowinarso, Managing Director of the Caravaning Industry Association (CIVD), who added: “Once again this year, the exhibitors are impressively demonstrating what our industry has to offer. The packed halls and the enthusiastic response from visitors prove just how great the fascination with caravans and motorhomes is, and what a magnet the Caravan Salon is.

“Dialogue with political decision-makers is an integral part of the Caravan Salon for us. We are delighted that high-ranking political representatives, including State Secretary Dr Claudia Elif Stutz and Luxembourg’s Minister for the Economy and Tourism, Lex Delles, were present and were able to see for themselves the importance of our sector. After all, caravanning is far more than just a form of holiday. It is a significant economic and tourism factor in Germany, Europe and beyond.”

The show, which is hosting 834 exhibitors from 41 countries, remains on until 6 September.

Photo: Messe Düsseldorf / Tillmann

Caravanning tourism is achieving record levels in Germany, according to new data from the German Economic Institute for Tourism (dwif).

During 2025, German campsites recorded 56 million overnight stays, while there were also 20 million overnight stays on pitches outside of campsites – both record-high figures.

The dwif study also estimates that the caravanning industry generated almost €23 billion in revenue for the domestic economy in Germany in 2025 – this is more than the €21 billion generated in 2024, and a huge 80 per cent increase compared to 10 years before in 2015. It also represents a new record high figure.

At the opening press conference of Caravan Salon 2026, Dr. Holger Siebert, Vice President of the Caravanning Industry Association (CIVD), commented on these figures: “The new record values impressively show the importance of caravanning for business and tourism in Germany. Nearly 23 billion euros in revenue for the domestic economy is a strong signal. It is particularly important that a significant part of this added value is directly received in the holiday regions. This benefits gastronomy, retail, leisure activities and local service providers. Especially for smaller municipalities and rural areas, caravanning thus opens up great economic opportunities.”

These figures have been enabled by Germany’s focus on developing its camping infrastructure – it is estimated that there are now 80 per cent more camping pitches in Germany than there were 20 years ago.

This boom in German caravanning tourism is also supported by strong figures in the recreational vehicle industry. From January to July 2026, 63,329 new leisure vehicles were registered in the country. In the motorhome segment, 50,118 vehicles were newly registered, 3.3 per cent fewer than in the previous year. Caravans accounted for 13,211 new registrations, a slight fall of 1.9 per cent.

While this represents a slight year-on-year decrease of around 3 per cent, it is still considered a healthy figure by CIVD, considering current geopolitical uncertainty and economic strain.

“A weak economy, subdued consumer sentiment and geopolitical uncertainties mean that the economic environment is currently anything but easy,” said Daniel Onggowinarso, Managing Director of the CIVD.

“This makes our sector’s resilience all the more remarkable. Across Europe, registrations are almost at the previous year’s level, and for motorhomes they are even slightly higher. Above all, however, enthusiasm for mobile holidays remains undiminished. Caravanning gives people freedom and flexibility, whilst also allowing them to plan their own itineraries and budgets. This is particularly valuable in uncertain times.”

Photo: CIVD