Executive Summary

The camping and caravanning market forms part of the wider UK leisure market. It is broadly divided into two main sectors: equipment and services. The equipment sector includes caravans and camping equipment, which together were valued at £963m at manufacturers' selling prices (msp) in 1999. The services sector includes park operations, income from which was estimated at £2.4bn.

Caravan and camping holidays have come under considerable pressure in recent years. The cost of overseas breaks has fallen and budget hotel chains have broadened consumer options for cheap accommodation. The strength of the pound has boosted overseas travel and, at the same time, made the UK more expensive for incoming tourists. However, the market has benefited from the growing consumer trend for taking a second break in the UK, in addition to a main holiday abroad. In this case, consumers generally seek a cheaper alternative and many continue to choose self-catering caravan or camping accommodation.

Within the caravan sector, stationary caravans have been taking share from tourers and motorhomes. A number of factors have contributed to this trend. Some consumers view a stationary caravan as an investment and the development of better park facilities has encouraged many to favour particular sites. Park operators have made considerable investments in the face of growing competition. In particular, many have upgraded their family facilities in the hope of drawing this sector of the market.

Sales of camping equipment have benefited from a number of leisure trends, not least of which has been the rising popularity of activity and adventure holidays that require appropriate equipment. The increase in the proportion of holidaymakers favouring independent holidays, which require a greater degree of self-sufficiency, has also contributed to this trend. Other factors include a more sophisticated approach to outdoor eating generally.

Overall, the market has experienced relatively stable sales in recent years and this trend is likely to continue. The targeting of families may become more difficult as the child population continues to shrink, but growth in the older population may compensate for this. Key Note estimates a 1.8% rise in total sales in 2000, bringing market value to £980m. Thereafter, the value of market is forecast to increase by 11.2% between 2000 and 2004, to reach £1.09bn.

More Information

  Denotes a required field.