Caravan Salon Wels: The boom continues

Caravan Salon Wels: The boom continues

It was already clear in the run-up to the Caravan Salon Austria: It will be more colorful, much more colorful. Many companies came to Wels for the first time, for different reasons. Individual exhibitors from the camper van scene had only recently turned their hobby into a profession and showed their best side in Hall 19. Others came to Wels to get an idea of ​​the Austrian market, and many to present their growing product portfolio in a tailor-made setting to a consistently affluent audience.

What was surprising was the large number of models that celebrated their world premiere in Düsseldorf just a few weeks ago. The manufacturers thereby underlined the relevance of Austria's leading trade fair. There were innovations in the roof tent segment, among other things, but compact kitchens for the trunk of a standard car were also shown. The range of motorhomes on offer was also greater than ever. From a rustic van for less than 50,000 euros to a luxury liner for a good ten times the price - all visitors got their money's worth. "The Caravan Salon was a complete success. "Caravaning is the trendy form of vacation, and individual, self-sufficient and flexible travel is the trend," said Petra Leingartner, trade fair manager at Messe Wels.

The demand for vans suitable for everyday use, which ideally also have all-wheel drive, has increased enormously. When you're out and about, the adventure seems to know no limits. The problem, however, is the prices quoted in many places and the high weight, which reduces the spectacular-looking vehicles to the off-road capabilities of all-wheel-drive station wagons. “The newcomers among the trade fair visitors are really interested in all areas, whether they are normal tents, roof tents, caravans or mobile homes - the interest is unbroken,” confirms Thomas Neugebauer, Managing Director of Campingworld Neugebauer and Chairman of the ÖCHV. “Our conclusion: very high-quality discussions and concrete interest among visitors,” said Gernot Rammer, Managing Director of Gentle Tent. “A strong community is forming on social media – we notice that the camping family is coming together,” reports Bernd Pfandl, Managing Director of 50plus Campingpark Fisching. “Even if the declining buying mood of the camping community and the poor delivery situation are slowing down further highs in new vehicle sales throughout Europe, traveling with campers, caravans and tents is obviously still becoming more attractive for customers,” explains Alexander Stummer, managing partner of CARAmobil.