My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast: Recent Episodes
John Rawlings
This podcast is for anyone working in the caravan industry - anywhere in the world.
Listen each week to hear the latest caravan industry insights, interviews or marketing tips to help keep you and your business more informed and successful.
There will be interviews with people from manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and the media, from the caravan industry and other sectors that can offer useful insights and tips.
This will include marketing, PR and social media tips, a chance to meet media and 'influencers' (and hear how best to work with them), learn about the current market situation and hear how other businesses - in the UK and internationally - are managing and succeeding in today's world.
Hosted by: John Rawlings - with a lifelong passion for caravanning - 20 years of journalism and PR experience in the car and caravan industries - from working at Practical Caravan magazine to 15 years in the PR departments of Vauxhall, Volvo and Volkswagen, and now helping clients across the caravan industry.
If you would like to be interviewed, want to suggest a topic for a podcast, or are interested in sponsoring My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast, then please get in touch: Email: john@rawlingscommunications.com Instagram: @rawlings_comms
And please hit subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Ep. 50: Industry Insights: Fiamma - interview with the UK represtentative (Karl) and a visit to its HQ in Milan, Italy, to speak to one of the joint MDs (Charles).
Fiamma supplies accessories (roll-our awnings, bike racks, and much more) to the global RV industry and has stayed a family-run business since it was founded in the 1940s.
During my visit, I saw how much it's been investing in expanding its production facility to meet future demand, plus I also got an interesting insight into its R&D dept.
CONTACT
www.fiamma.it
Instagram: @fiamma_official
Linkedin: @Fiamma SpaEpisode Number & title
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Ep. 49: An interview with journalist, vlogger, blogger and speaker, Kat Bird, the women behind the 'Wandering Bird' YouTube channel, social media, website, etc., while she is in Iceland on her latest solo motorhome adventure.
Hear how and why she set up her YouTube channel, and how her 'Wandering Bird' brand has grown into books, a Facebook group and seen her talking on stages across the country.
Kat has inspired many people, particularly women, to take their motorhomes to many parts of Europe and the UK. She now writes a monthly column for MMM magazine and is also now a member of the Caravan Writers' Guild.
https://www.wandering-bird.com/
Instagram: @wanderingbird.adventures
Facebook: @wandering bird
Twitter: @wandering_bird
If you would like to sponsor My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast, please contact: john@rawlingscommunications.com.
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Ep. 46: There's a new campervan/motorhome magazine on the bookshelves - Advanture. But it's not a traditional motorhome magazine. It's all about the adventure, with stunning imagery to match, plus gadgets and gear.
Here more about it in this interview with its founder and editor, Alex Brown.
vanlife
CONTACT
www.advanturemagazine.com
Instagram: @advanturemagazine
Facebook: @advanture magazine
Linkedin: @Advanture Magazine
YouTube: @advanture magazine
Ep. 45: The DVSA's survey on towing skills and tuition made me wonder whether compulsory towing training would help or harm the caravan industry. What do you think?
My initial reaction was that it would harm the caravan industry as it creates a barrier to entry, but then I wondered if the tuition would make consumers better equipped - and safer on the roads.
This is the link to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) survey asking for your thoughts on trailer training and towing safely: https://lnkd.in/eDUCnUjG
CONTACT
john@rawlingscommunications.com
Instagram: @rawlings_comms
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rawlings-communications-consultant/
Ep. 44: If your potential and existing customers don't get a positive customer experience from your brand, business or product, then all your marketing and PR to raise awareness and attract customers can be wasted.
According to Senior Customer Experience Strategist, Matthew Patchett, building a relationship and experience with consumers or customers starts as soon as they Google you. Listen to this episode for more customer experience insights.
CONTACT GUEST
www.reputation.com
Instagram: reputation_com
Facebook: Reputation.com
Linkedin: Reputation.Com or Matthew Patchett
Twitter: @Reputation_Com
Ep: 43 - Knowing we all need a website is one thing, but it's not enough to create and leave it untouched. You need to make it work for you to boost your Google rankings and grow your database.
Ben Bellamy, the Creative Director of an award-winning web design agency, shares some of the latest tips and lessons he's learned from designing websites.
Do you have a website or just rely on your social media channels for your external communications?
Did you know that updating your website too regularly could be bad for your Google rankings?
Do you regularly add fresh content to your website?
Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast)
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CONTACT GUEST
Add guests social media info
CONTACT
Instagram:
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OFFERS
Ep 42: Do you really understand content marketing and how to do it effectively to bring you more customers and enhance your brand?
I interview journalist and content consultant, Craig Thomas, about how to do content marketing properly and inline with your customers.
CONTACT GUEST
www.redlinecontent.co.uk
Linkedin: @craigthomas1/
To contact the podcast about any interview opportunities or sponsorship offers, please, email: john@rawlingscommunications.com.
An insight into the Caravan Industry in the USA with an interview with RV Industry Association spokesperson, Monica Geraci.
With production figures typically around 500,000 RVs per annum, Is everything bigger and better on the other side of the Atlantic?
CONTACT
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rvindustryassociation/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RVIndustryAssoc
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RV_Industry
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rvia/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RVIACommunications
Other: www.rvia.org
OFFERS
Part 2 of the Sahara Challenge follows the team from Marrakech over the Atlas Mountains to camp in the Sahara Desert, then the homeward journey through Spain back to the UK.
Includes interviews with the following guests and staff from Bailey of Bristol of their experiences of Morocco and the purpose of this road trip:
- Nick Lomas - Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club
- Peter Vaughan - Editor of What Motorhome magazine and Road Test Editor of MMM
- Nigel Hutson - journalist
- Lee Davey - journalist and Bailey of Bristol ambassador
- Cameron Burns - creator of YouTube channel, Not Another White Box: https://www.youtube.com/@NotAnotherWhiteBox
- Tash - from the YouTube channel, Life Beyond Bricks: https://lifebeyondbricks.co.uk/
- Cristina Dorador - Marketing Manager, Bailey of Bristol
- Simon Howard - Marketing Director, Bailey of Bristol: www.baileyofbristol.co.uk
A teaser video of part 2 of the trip is now available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/__Hf3pZ8PIg
More details of the trip are available on the Bailey of Bristol website (www.baileyofbristol.co.uk) and by searching on social media for the hashtag #saharachallenge.
saharachallenge
I speak to guests from the Caravan Industry, and staff from Bailey of Bristol, during the first 'half' of the Sahara Challenge road trip from Sagres in Portugal to Marrakech in Morocco to find out the reason for undertaking this trip and their thoughts on caravanning in Morocco.
Guests include:
- Martin Fitzpatrick - Joint Managing Director of Truma UK
- Nick Lomas - Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club
- Simon Howard - Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol
A teaser video of the first part of the Sahara Challenge is now available on Bailey of Bristol's YouTube page: https://youtu.be/LfkDCxwOp48
More details of the trip are available on the Bailey of Bristol website (www.baileyofbristol.co.uk) and by searching on social media for the hashtag #saharachallenge.
Producing and selling camping and campervan equipment is a competitive market, but that didn't stop Daniel Walton starting his own company, OLPRO.
Since 2011, OLPRO has grown successfully, won national awards and now has two sites in the UK employing 20 people.
I talk to Daniel Walton about his career in the caravan industry and how he has created and made OLPRO into the successful brand it is today.
CONTACT
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olproeverywhere
Facebook: www.facebook.com/olproltd
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-walton-89236a20/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OLPRO
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StandOutTV
Other: www.olproshop.com
OFFERS
Ep: 37 - As the Swift Group announced its first ever TV ad, its Head of Marketing, Jo Mitchell, shares why this is an important part of its communications strategy to tempt more people to consider a (Swift) caravan or motorhome.
Using the strapline, "Every Swift has a story", the advert cleverly shows how a caravan, motorhome or campervan is more than just a vehicle to its owners, but is part of the family.
CONTACT
See the Swift Group TV ad here: https://www.swiftgroup.co.uk/swiftstories/
www.swiftgroup.co.uk
Instagram: @swiftgroup
Facebook: @Swift Group
Twitter: @swiftgroup
TikTok: @swift_group
LinkedIn: @Swift Group Limited
An insight into AI (artificial intelligence) and the likes of ChatGPT, plus the latest marketing intelligence from Dr Martin DeSaulles, a senior lecturer at Brighton University, and business writer.
Martin has worked in the technology and marketing sectors for over 20 years as an analyst, entrepreneur, author and university lecturer. He has written numerous articles for business publications such as CIO.com , The Conversation and The Next Web as well as several books on the role of data in driving innovation and business success.
Topics discussed
- Marketing Data
- Social Media - quality v. quantity
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- ChatGPT
RESOURCES
https://martindesaulles.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mdesaulles/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mdesaulles
Did you go to the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show at the NEC in Birmingham? I did, and here's a brief round-up of my experience of the show - and a general catch-up.
It was such a pleasure to interview another podcaster about... podcasts, and why he started his podcast for his business.
I speak to podcaster, Motorhome Matt about his reasons for starting a podcast.
I love podcasting, so if you're interested in starting a podcast for your business, I'd love to help you. Let's have a chat...
CONTACT GUEST
Instagram: @motorhomematt.co.uk
Facebook: @Motorhome Matt
YouTube: @MotorhomeMatt
Other: www.motorhomematt.co.uk
Entrepreneur, Cathy Chamberlain, started her caravan manufacturing business with absolutely no previous experience. Fast forward to today, and Barefoot Caravans has just launched in USA - a real British success story.
Was it all plain sailing? How did she manage it? Listen to this episode to find out.
CONTACT GUEST
www.go-barefoot.co.uk
Is the caravan industry taking accessibility seriously? Is it adequately considering the needs of people that require accessibility? Is this an opportunity to attract more people to caravanning and camping?
In this episode, I speak to the young couple behind the website, AdventureWheels.co.uk - Stephen Wills and Karla Baker - who have adapted their caravan to cater for Karla's wheelchair.
Caravanning has enabled them to explore the UK and Euope safe in the knowledge that taking their own accommodation with them means Karla's needs are catered for. It's also enabled Karla to develop a writing career with her website, blogs and travel articles for magazines in the caravan and accessibility sectors.
www.adventurewheels.co.uk
@adventurewheelsuk on social media channels
- Industry Insights: news and outlook
This week's episode is a quick update on the latest news in the UK and beyond, looking at the latest 2022 sales figures and trends in new car sales.
- Industry Insights: A visit to CMT 2023, the holiday and travel show in Stuttgart, Germany including a catch-up with the Director of the exhibition, Alexander Ege.
With several halls of caravans and motorhomes from all the well known European brands, CMT is the second largest caravan and motorhome show in Germany (after the Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf).
My first visit to the show, but not my last. It was great and attracted 265,000 visitors. Well worth visiting!
OFFERS
29. Industry Insights: Steve Trossell has worked in the caravan industry since the 1970's and shares some highlights from his career, including his time as MD of Sprite Caravans!
There aren't many people in the caravan industry that have has a career as long as Steve Trossell. He started at Bessacarr (when it was still an independent manufacturer), then moved to Sprite Caravans in Newmarket where he became MD, lead a management buy-out and its sale to the Swift Group, which he then joined and took on several roles. He is now a Non-Executive Director at Bailey of Bristol and still enjoys touring with his own caravan.
CONTACT GUEST
Linkedin: @Steve Trossell
To sponsor the podcast, or to suggest a topic or person to feature, please contact john@rawlingscommunications.com
28. Industry Insights: Why PR and content generation is such an important part of any communications strategy, with insights from a luxury brand from an interview with Wayne Bruce, the Director of Communications at Bentley Motors.
Topics discussed:
- Why do PR?
- The benefits of PR
- Achieving coverage outside the specialist/core press
- Being a content factory
- Photography/video
- Media relations
CONTACT
Instagram: @bentleymotors
Facebook: @Bentley Motors
Linkedin: @Bentley Motors
27: The Director General of the Caravan and Motorhome Club, Nick Lomas, shares his 'grass-roots' insights of the latest caravanning trends and issues.
With the staycation boom bringing new interest in caravan and motorhome holidays and hot topics such as electric vehicles and the rising costs of electricity for a Club with a large UK network of sites, Nick had plenty to talk about.
RESOURCES
www.camc.com
Instagram: @candmclub
Facebook: @Caravan and Motorhome Club
Linkedin: @Caravan and Motorhome Club
Twitter: @candmclub
26: Christmas Podcast Party episode with four guests from the caravan media. We choose some caravan/motorhome-related cocktails (mine's a Baileys) and discuss our 2022 touring highlights.
RESOURCES
Kat - Wandering Bird:
People can buy her books here: https://www.wandering-bird.com/motorhome-guide-ebooks
Website: https://www.wandering-bird.com
Youtube:// https://www.youtube.com/wanderingbirdadventures
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderingbird.adventures
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingbird.adventures
Sammy Faircloth:
My book is available (£15.99) from:
- Amazon The Caravan Handbook : Faircloth, Sammy: Amazon.co.uk: Books
- eBay THE CARAVAN HANDBOOK 2021 by Sammy Faircloth 9781838404307 | eBay
- Alan Rogers Travel Guides website The Caravan Handbook | Alan Rogers Shop
It’s also available as an eBook (£10.99) on:
- Google Play
- Apple iBooks
Lee Davy:
Instagram: @tin.tent
Twitter: @tintent
Martin Dorey:
Weblink to Martin's books: http://martindorey.com/product/off-beaten-track-england-wales/
www.martindorey.com
CONTACT
Instagram:
Facebook:
Linkedin:
Other:
OFFERS
- Industry Insights: A special episode to celebrate and review the end of 2022 and look forward to 2023.
A brief review of 2022, including the launch of this podcast, plus my travel highlights and some news of my first guests on the podcast in 2023.
After month's of planning, it's hard to believe that this podcast hits its six month anniversary in next week's special Christmas episode!
I'd like to say a big 'Thank You' to everyone who has either been on the podcast or subscribed and given it a five star review!
CONTACT
www.rawlingscommunications.com
Instagram: @rawlings_comms
Facebook: @rawlingscommunications
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rawlings-caravanpr/
Twitter: @johnrawlings
24: What is #Vanlife? Is it good for the caravan industry?
Vanlife has become a popular hashtag with Instagram seemingly awash with images of adoring couples enjoying stunning views from their van, or self-build van conversions done on a budget.
One thing's for sure, Vanlife is growing in popularity and spawning special magazines and events. Is this grass-roots movement a passing fad or a trend the caravan industry needs to be looking at more closely?
In this first spotlight on Vanlife, I get some insights from Tash, who with her husband, Jon, created their YouTube channel, Life Beyond Bricks, after selling their house and moving into their Adria Sonic motorhome.
Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast)
- The story behind Life Beyond Bricks
- The meaning of Vanlife
- The growing popularity of Vanlife
- The Vanlife lifestyle
- The Vanlife community
RESOURCES
www.lifebeyondbricks.co.uk
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/LBB
Instagram: @life_beyond_bricks
Facebook: @Life Beyond Bricks
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/lifebeyondbricks
Will there be a VW ID. Buzz California campervan? To find out, listen to this interview with Kate Thompson, Head of Marketing and PR at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Volkswagen has an incredibly long heritage in the campervan sector, and its California, which it produces in its own factory, it a market leader.
With its retro style and cool design, the all-electric ID. Buzz and its commercial vehicle version, the ID. Buzz stands out from the crowd - and a campervan version would be absolutely stunning.
I attended the UK media launch and drove some of the first right-hand-drive models, then had to find out about the prospects for camper conversions and Volkswagen's own California version.
Topics discussed
- VW ID. Buzz - UK market launch dates
- VW ID. Buzz - facts and figures (inc. towing limit)
- VW ID. Buzz - future model derivatives
- VW ID. Buzz California
- Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Motorhome Qualification Scheme
RESOURCES
www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk
Episode 22: A look into the world of glamping and holiday trends with Mark Scott, the CEO of Clear Sky Safari Tents (or luxury canvas lodges).
Glamping has attracted new customers into the great outdoors and onto holiday parks - which should be good news for the caravan industry as a whole.
Through his background in the holiday park sector, Mark Scott spotted a market opportunity for high quality safari trends and his company has subsequently become the market leader.
This episode was actually recorded inside a Clear Sky Safari Tent!
Topics discussed
- Consumer holiday trends
- The growth of glamping
- Providing customers with a luxury experience
- Staycations - here to stay?
CONTACT GUEST
www.safaritents.net
Instagram: @clearskysafaritents
Facebook: @clearskysafaritents
Linkedin: @Clear Sky Safari Tents
Episode 23: The Outjoyment Report, a new study commissioned by The Camping and Caravanning Club and undertaken by a team of academics at Liverpool John Moores University and Sheffield Hallam University, shows that happiness is the top motivator for people to go camping (including caravans, campervans, motorhomes, etc).
Other findings include:
- Happy: 97% of campers say happpiness is their top motivator for going camping while 48% of campers reported feeling happy almost every day, compared with 35% of non-campers.
- Flourishing: 44% are flourishing (have optimal mental health) compared with 31% of non-campers. This increases for those who camp more often.
- Less stressed: 88% of campers are motivated to go camping to take time out of everyday life and have higher levels of psychological well-being than non-campers.
- Active outdoors: 98% of campers take part in outdoor activities. 91% go walking. 39% cycle and 26% enjoy bird-watching.
- Nature: 93% go camping to enjoy being in nature - the second highest motivator after happiness, and they score highly on measures of nature connection.
Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast)
- Overview of the key findings of The Outjoyment Report - with Simon McGrath, Head of Communications and External Relations at The Camping and Caravanning Club.
- Academic insights into the findings of the report by Dr Kaye Richards, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University
RESOURCES
www.theoutjoymentreport.co.uk
www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk
CONTACT
Instagram: www.instagram.com/campandcaravan
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thefriendlyclub
Twitter: www.twitter.com/campandcaravan
YouTube: www.youtube.com/thefriendlyclub
Please subscribe!
Many motorhome and campervan manufacturers have started using alternative base vehicles because of supply chain issues. An increasing number have switched to using the Ford Transit and Transit Custom.
In this episode, Ford Leisure Vehicle Manager for Europe, Ryan Bowdidge, gives us his honest insights into the current supply of vans and how, despite the current challenges, he is enjoying his new role in the caravan industry.
Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast)
- Ryan's career at Ford and his new role as Leisure Vehicle Manager
- The growing popularity of the Ford Transit in the motorhome sector
- Supply Chain Issues
CONTACT
Instagram: @FordUK
Facebook: @Ford Pro UK
Linkedin: @Ryan Bowdidge
19: An insight into the Holiday Parks/Glamping sector
Holiday parks, holiday homes, park homes and glamping are an important part of the Caravan Industry. To get a deeper industry insight into this sector, I visited the Holiday Park and Resort Innovation show at the NEC (last week).
It's a B2B show with over 500 exhibitors - ranging from cool glamping units and safari tents to dinosaurs (for entertainment) and robots to deliver table service or collect dirty dishes - and everything in between.
There was also an impressive number of talks passing on wisdom from professionals as well as owners of parks or other businesses in the sector.
I was delighted to see some people I knew and also make some new contacts. I recorded quick catch-up interviews with several of these people, including:
Cathy Chamberlain, MD of Barefoot Caravans
Michael Hold, Sales and Marketing Director of Adventure Leisure Vehicles, there launching his new Mooble House tiny houses.
Mark Scott, CEO of Clear Sky Safari Lodges.
Bella Brodie, editor of Holiday Living magazine.
And others...
RESOURCES
https://www.holidayparkshow.co.uk/ - tickets now available for 2023
https://www.go-barefoot.co.uk/ - Barefoot Caravans
https://mooblehouseuk.com/ - Mooble House UK
https://www.safaritents.net/ - Clear Sky Safari Lodges
https://shop.kelsey.co.uk/park-home-and-holiday-living-magazine - Park Home and Holiday Living magazine
https://hutechrobotics.com/ - Hutech Robots
18: Tiny Houses - a growing trend in the UK or clamping fad? I interview caravan industry veteran Michael Hold about his 50 year career and why he leapt at the chance to be the sole UK agent for Mooble House tiny houses on wheels (and an AL-KO chassis).
Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast): 50 years of selling caravans! Life on the manufacturing side of the industry Tiny Houses
RESOURCES www.adventurelv.com www.mooblehouseuk.com CONTACT GUEST Adventure Leisure Vehicles: 01539 624141 Instagram: @adventureleisurevehicles // @mooblehouseuk Facebook: @Adventue Leisure Vehicles // @Mooble House UK Linkedin: @Michael Hold (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-hold-04766318/)
Motorhome and Caravan Show 2022 report with snippets from exhibitors - ranging from manufacturers to dealers and suppliers, including: Bailey of Bristol, Coachman, TMD Motorhomes, Adventure Leisure Vehicles, The Roaming Radfords, Whale, Paintseal Direct, The Motorome Matt Podcast. After the covid-enforced break, everyone seemed pleased to be back at the Motorhome and Caravan Show, and there was certainly an impressive array of caravans, campervans, motorhomes, awnings and accessories to view - and buy. It was good to catch-up with lots of people from the caravan industry, but I ran out of time to see everyone (apologies). Another highlight of my time at the show was attending the AGM of The Caravan Writers' Guild and taking on the voluntary position of Chairman. The following day, the Caravan Writers' Guild hosted its special 40th anniversary Industry Dinner. There were over 90 people at the dinner, including members and representatives from manufacturers, suppliers and associations. It was a lovely evening, and I had the pleasure of announcing the winners of the Doug King Award for journalism (won by Marcus Leach - interviewed in the episode 16) and the John Wickersham Award for video (won by Andrew Ditton). Topics discussed: What a show! Visitor numbers The Caravan Writers' Guild Sales figures
Marketing Insights: Brand ambassador, Marcus Leach, tells us how he combines working, content creation and family time on his full-time European motorhome trip with his family Topics discussed: Marcus's Big European Odyssey Full time motor homing - with young family Working on the road Content creation Working with brands Social media Future plans
CONTACT GUEST www.marcusleach.co.uk www.baileyofbristol.co.uk www.camc.co.uk
Instagram: our.roaming.odyssey or @marcusleachglobal Twitter: @MarcusGLeach
thebigeuropeanodyssey
15 Insight to the campsite sector: How are campsite owners coping with current issues: rising costs of utilities, electric vehicle charging, rising electricity consumption by customers, and more...?
Some people dream of owning their own campsite. Jackie Spencer and her husband took the plunge and bought a campsite in Cheshire but like any business owner, they've had some challenges to cope with along the way. Listen to this episode to see if they are 'living the dream' (or not) and how they are managing the current issues of rising costs and electricity usage. Topics discussed A change of lifestyle Buying a campsite Unexpected challenges of owning a campsite Listening to customer Marketing (outsourcing) Increasing use of electricity Electric car charging on site Satisfying customers Diversifying Will their campsite survive? The joys of owning a campsite Future plans
RESOURCES https://www.elmcottage.co.uk (https://www.elmcottage.co.uk)
CONTACT GUEST Email: booking@elmcottage.co.uk Facebook: @Elm Cottage Touring Park
Thanks for listening. Please remember to subscribe and it would be a great help if you could give the podcast a 5 star review. Thanks very much. If you have any comments, suggestions for future issues or are interested in sponsoring the podcast, please email: john@rawlingscommunications.com
Episode 14: Advanced sales techniques using insights into how a customer's brain reacts, but Darren Bull from Atlantic Caravans After many years of experience, and lots of sales training, Darren Bull, who runs his own caravan dealership in Cornwall, says he can help other caravan sales people use some advanced sales techniques to give them a competitive edge over other sales people the customer will probably speak to. Darren has studied human behaviour including how the brain works and is happy to share his insights on how he believes it's possible to build more empathy with potential customers. He's also a published author! (see link to his book below) With the Motorhome and Caravan Show taking place this month, this episode of the My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast is well worth listening to by everyone exhibiting at the show, or anyone with their own business who wants to try to make it a bit more successful. His skills definitely worked when he asked to be interviewed for the podcast. Enjoy! Topics discussed: Darren Bull's dealership and market trends Traditional sales techniques Analysis of a human brain Building empathy with potential customers The power of telling a story Real life examples
CONTACT GUEST https://www.atlanticcaravans.co.uk/ Darren Bull's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/One-Step-Beyond-Matt-Ford-ebook/dp/B07H3DQZLF Instagram: @atlantic_caravans_cornwall Facebook: @Atlantic Caravans Twitter: @AtlanticCaravan YouTube: @Atlantic Caravans Linkedin: Darren Bull FERS
13: Industry Insights - The Media Director of Germany’s ADAC membership organisation, Cornel Straver, discusses why it launched Pincamp as a separate campsite website brand.
The ADAC is Europe’s biggest membership organisation. A large proportion of its members go camping and caravanning. Hear how it adapts to serve its members CONTACT DETAILS www.adac.de www.pincamp.de Instagram: pincamp.de Facebook: PiNCAMP by ADAC Linkedin: PiNCAMP YouTube: PiNCAMP
Episode #12: Industry Insights - a VW campervan concept, new production technology and using robots in the production of caravans. An interview at the Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf with Mauro Degasperi from Knaus Tabbert about its latest technology and manufacturing process (using robots) for its new Azur caravan range for 2023, plus its Tourer CUV campervan concept (based on a VW T6.1). Useful links: Knaus Azur: https://www.knaus.com/en-uk/brand-world/innovations-2023/the-new-azur/ Knaus Tourer CUV: https://www.knaus.com/en-uk/brand-world/innovations-2023/the-new-tourer-cuv/ Instagram: @knaus_offical Facebook: @Knaus Tabbert; @Knaus UK Linkedin: @Knaus Tabbert AG Twitter: @KnausTabbert I hope you enjoyed this episode and would be very grateful if you click 'subscribe'.
IF you have any comments, suggestions for future episodes, or are interested in sponsoring the podcast, please leave a message of email: john@rawlingscommunications.com.
Thanks.
Episode #11: Industry Insights: A look at the caravan industry in Poland with the CEO of a leading importer and campervan brand (Globe Traveller) This is another interview recorded at the Caravan Salon Dusseldorf. To be honest, I had never thought there were any manufacturers in Poland, but the Globe-Traveller campervans caught my eye and I was delighted to hear that this brand will be making its debut in the UK at the Motorhome and Caravan Show this October (2022). It's probably the only interview about camper vans that will include a reference to dancing!! It was a pleasure to interview Andrzej Zawilinski. I think you will find this interesting (and amusing). Topics discussed Caravan Industry in Poland Supply chain issues New campervan layout (with space for dancing!!) UK debut for Globe-Traveller
CONTACT Instagram: @globetravellereu Facebook: @Globe-Traveller Linkedin: @Globe-Traveller RV Website: www.globe-traveller.eu
If you have any feedback for the podcast, suggestions for interviews, or would be interested in sponsoring it, please contact: john@rawlingscommunications.com
Episode 10 is an interview I recorded at the Caravan Salon Dusseldorf with Norbert van Noesel, the Marketing Manager of Thetford Europe. Norbert updates us on how Thetford is coping with the supply chain issues, and a couple of new products being launched at the trade fair. Thetford is the market leader in sanitation equipment for the caravan industry, and also in top positions for cooking equipment and refrigerators. Topics discussed Supply chain issues Exhibiting at trade fairs Product development New products
RESOURCES https://www.thetford-europe.com/gb Instagram: @thetfordeurope Facebook: @Thetford Europe Linkedin: @Thetford Europe If you have any feedback, suggestions for topics/interviews to include in the podcast, or are interested in sponsoring the podcast, please get in touch: john@rawlingscommunications.com. Thanks for listening.
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Episode 08: Industry Insight: preview of the Caravan Salon Dusseldorf 2022 This week, I look ahead to the Caravan Salon Dusseldorf 2022, which opens to the trade and media this Friday, 26th August, and is then open to the public from Saturday 27th August through to Sunday 4th September. This includes a quick interview with the show's director, Stefan Koschke (my first guest from outside the UK) who is pleased to tell us there are no covid restrictions this year for the 200,000 visitors that are expected over the 10 days of the show. Tickets are only available online. With over 700 exhibitors from 34 countries, the Caravan Salon can probably justify its claim that this year's show is going to be bigger than ever - and the biggest RV show in the world. There's only been a limited amount of details of some 2023 model making their debut at the Caravan Salon - such as the stunning Knaus Tourer CUV with full-length raising roof and on a Volkswagen T6.1 cab/chassis, and the Burstner Lyseo Gallery with pop-up alcove over the cab that was first seen as a concept last year and has now been confirmed as going into production. Hymer has a global debut of a new model scheduled for Thursday 25th August, so I look forward to seeing that. It's going to be a great show, and I'll be there catching up with people in the industry, and all the news for a special Caravan Salon Dusseldorf episode next week. Bear with us, though, as the episode might be a day late. Topics discussed Caravan Salon Dusseldorf 2022 Covid situation/restrictions
RESOURCES Knaus Tourer CUV: https://www.knaus.com/en-uk/brand-world/innovations-2023/the-new-tourer-cuv/ Knaus Azur (with new production technique) and new Volkswagen-based motorhomes. Burstner Lyseo Gallery: https://innovation.buerstner.com/gb/en Caravan Salon Dusseldorf: https://www.caravan-salon.com CONTACT Instagram: caravan_salon_dus Facebook: Caravan Salon Dusseldorf Linkedin: CARAVAN SALON Dusseldorf
Episode #07 This is the Podcast’s first interview with someone working in a retail role in the caravan industry. This week’s guest is probably the youngest caravan sales executive in the industry. He's still a teenager (19), but has been caravanning all his life, and shares his fresh and first impressions of working in the caravan industry. He is Oliver Cox, and at the age of 15 he started a YouTube channel (Caravanning With The Cox's) sharing his caravan holidays with his parents and doing product reviews from a younger person's perspective. At 18, he bought his first caravan - a new Bailey Discovery D4-2, which he spends a lot of time in. He has now turned his passion for caravanning into a career that he's loving. Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast) Caravanning solo at 18 Selling caravans as a teenage A day in the life of a caravan sales executive Current market conditions New people entering the market Mis-information and bad advice How the caravan industry could improve
CONTACT Instagram: Caravanningwiththecoxs / webbscaravans Facebook: Caravanningwiththecoxs / webbscaravans Twitter: Caravanningwiththecoxs / webbscaravans YouTube: Caravanningwiththecoxs / webbscaravans Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-cox-85ba58224/ Website: www.webbsmotorcaravans.co.uk
Please help! As this podcast is new, I'd really appreciate your help to make the algorithms show it to more people.by asking you to rate it with 5 stars (and a 5 star review would be even better). Thank you very much. And if there's anything you'd like to see included on the podcast, suggest anyone to interview or would be interested in sponsoring the podcast, please get in touch: john@rawlingscommunications or 07847 371436.
Episode #06: Industry Insights - the campervan sector - David Elliott shares his views as Wellhouse Leisure celebrates its 20th anniversary David Elliott is the CEO and founder of Wellhouse Leisure, and is celebrating 20 years since he founded the business and started converting campervans. He started by converting good quality used vans imported from Japan, such as the Mazda Bongo, then the Toyota Granvia, before progressing to new vans, such as the Hyundai i800 – which won several awards. I’ve known David since 2013, when Wellhouse Leisure was the first to produce a campervan conversion of the new Ford Transit Custom – the Terrier – which was successfully launched at the October NEC show. Since then, David has worked closely with a variety of van brands – with great success. Its main brands for new vans are currently converts Ford Transit and Toyota Proace. And he still offers great value conversions on used vans from Japan. David could definitely be described as quite a character! He has the typical common sense and straight talking you’d expect from a Yorkshireman! He’s also raised lots of money for charity by running marathons and hosting charity balls. Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast) 20 years of Wellhouse Leisure Current issues in the campervan sector Coping with the Covid pandemic Demand - current sales trends Campervan safety standards Social Media (Facebook Group)
RESOURCES www.wellhouseleisure.com Email: info@wellhouseleisure.com Instagram: @wellhouse_leisure Facebook: @wellhousecamper Twitter: @wellhousecamper Linkedin: @wellhouse Leisure YouTube: @wellhouseleisure Email: info@wellhouseleisure.com
Episode 04: Media insights from an interview with freelance leisure vehicle journalist and content producer, Andrew Ditton, who creates video, photographic and written content for the leisure vehicle industry. Andrew discusses media trends, electric tow cars and how good content boosts consumer engagement. Andrew's life-long passion for caravanning, and his mission to inspire, entertain and inform, lead him to start his own You Tube channel. He was way ahead of the curve, and his channel is now one of the most successful of its kind with over 16 million views of his content, and almost 70,000 subscribers. He's just taken another bold and pioneering step - buying an electric towcar, and he is already creating practical and informative content on the hot topic of towing with electric cars. Topics discussed Journalism Content creation Caravanning! Electric cars and towing Media relations Influencers and collaborations
RESOURCES https://andrewditton.com/about/ (https://andrewditton.com/about/) CONTACT GUEST Instagram: @andrewjditton YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/andrewjditton And I'd really appreciate it if you could do me a big favour and give this podcast a five star review as it will help the algorithms show it to more people. Thank you very much.
04: Marketing insights: Podcasts - Phil King, podcast editor, tells us how (and why) to start a podcast as part of your communications strategy. In this episode, I interview my podcast editor, Phil King. He helps to deliver quality podcasts for new and established podcasters all over the world - from audio editing and music mixing to podcast mastering. We discuss the benefits of a podcast compared to other social media channels, and how it is such a good format to boost your external communications and engagement with your existing customers - and to attract new ones. Starting a podcast is relatively simple, when you know how, and is an exciting and different way to create content. It's a great communications tool for any size of business and if it is monetised with sponsors, etc, can also create a revenue stream. Phil King is a voice actor and podcast editor, so tells us what equipment is needed for a podcast and has lots of tips on what to consider, such as format and frequency of a podcast. I listen to lots of podcasts on a range of subjects and in different formats - from the magazine style of Auto Express, to celebrities such as Alan Carr's 'Life's a Beach' podcast, and the current number one podcast, 'The Rest is Politics' with Alastair Campbell and Rory Stewart discussing their views and insights on the world of politics and media. Some podcasts have been such a hit that they've spawned life stage and TV shows. Some are small and target every niche imaginable. But there are barely any podcasts in the caravan and motorhome sector in the UK at the moment, so there is a great opportunity for businesses to listen to this podcast, learn a lot, and, hopefully, be inspired to start podcasting. Topics discussed Why start a podcast? Equipment needed to start a podcast Podcast format Podcasts v. YouTube/social media Podcast resources and software How to distribute a podcast?
RESOURCES www.mypodcastassistant.com CONTACT GUEST Instagram: www.instagram.com/podcast_assist/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/mypodcastassistant Email: phil@mypodcastassistant.com Please help! As this podcast is new, I'd really appreciate your help to make the algorithms show it to more people.by asking you to rate it with 5 stars (and a 5 star review would be even better). Thank you very much. And if there's anything you'd like to see included on the podcast, suggest anyone to interview or would be interested in sponsoring the podcast, please get in touch: john@rawlingscommunications or 07847 371436.
Hello! Welcome to the very first episode of My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast. This podcast is for anyone who works in the caravan/motorhome industry who wants to hear the latest industry news, marketing insights and interviews with people from the caravan industry or others with useful experience to share. In this first episode, I let you know about my caravanning, PR and journalism background and why you’ll want to keep listening every week so you and your business are better informed - and more successful. Topics discussed The caravan industry Marketing insights Journalism and PR The car industry Caravanning! RESOURCES http://www.rawlingscommunications.com (www.rawlingscommunications.com)
CONTACT GUEST john@rawlingscommunications.com
CONTACT Instagram: @rawlings_comms Twitter: @johnrawlings Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rawlings-caravanpr/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rawlings-caravanpr/)
I'd really appreciate it if you could give this podcast a 5 star review as it helps the algorithms - so more people find it.
Thank you very much.
Today's episode features an interview with Simon Howard, Marketing Director of Bailey of Bristol, one of the UK's biggest and longest-running touring caravan and coachbuilt motorhome manufacturers, where he is responsible for all internal and external communications. Simon's family has owned Bailey of Bristol since 1977, and he now runs the business with his brother, Nick, the Managing Director, and their executive management team. Simon discusses his 23 years of working at Bailey, how he's brought its PR and marketing into the digital world and embraced social media, the current supply chain issues, and his participation in a series of Big Bailey Adventures taking their leisure vehicles across the Australian Outback, over ice roads in the Arctic Circle and (accidentally) through the Grand Bazaar in central Istanbul. Topics discussed (topics covered in the podcast) Marketing PR and media Social Media and influencers Bailey's Big Adventures Suppliers and supply chain issues
RESOURCES www.baileyofbristol.co.uk
CONTACT Email: marketing@baileyofbristol.co.uk Instagram: @BaileyofBristol Facebook: @Baileycaravansandmotorhomes Twitter: @BaileyofBristol Linkedin: @BaileyofBristol YouTube: @BaileyofBristol
I'd really appreciate it if you could give this podcast a 5 star review as it helps the algorithms - so more people find it.
Thank you very much.
02 Social Media Insights: Social media tips and the latest updates from international speaker and best-selling author Teresa Heath Wareing. This interview with international speaker and best-selling author, Teresa Heath-Waring discusses all-things social media - if you should do it and how to do it effectively. Topics discussed Social media channels Mailing lists Engagement v. reach Marketing
RESOURCES https://teresaheathwareing.com (https://teresaheathwareing.com) CONTACT GUEST Instagram: @teresa_heathwareing Facebook: @teresa Heath-Wareing Linkedin: @teresa Heath-Wareing
And I'd really appreciate it if you could give this podcast a 5-star review as it helps the algorithms to show it to more people.
This podcast is for anyone who works in the caravan industry - whether you’re from a manufacturer, supplier, or dealer. Listen every week to hear insights, interviews, and marketing tips to help keep you and your business more informed and successful. My Caravan Industry Insights Podcast will feature: · interviews with people from manufacturers, suppliers, retailers, and the media from the caravan industry or other sectors if they have useful experience, insights, and tips that we can benefit from. · marketing, PR, and social media tips · Opportunities to meet media and 'influencers' (to hear how best to work with them)… · updates on the current market for caravans and motorhomes – in the UK, Europe, and other parts of the world… · and we’ll hear how businesses - in the UK and internationally - are managing and succeeding in today's market. I’m your host, John Rawlings and I have a lifelong passion for caravanning combined with 20 years of journalism and PR experience in the car and caravan industries - from working at Practical Caravan magazine to 15 years in the PR departments of Vauxhall, Volvo, and Volkswagen, and now with my own business helping clients across the caravan industry.