Consequences of Covid-19

Why do we have such a small amount of stock to sell?

Read on………

The production of static caravans has been severely affected by the initial lockdown back in March 2020. What must be recognised and understood is that production stopped for over 3 months, for some manufacturers it was much longer. The loss of production runs into many thousands of caravans, not just static and touring caravans but residential homes, motor homes and glamping pods. That production period cannot be recovered and what was to follow turned the whole situation upside down.

As we came out of lockdown no one expected a post lockdown staycation boom. This created a huge demand for holidays in the UK particularly on Holiday Caravan Parks, with static and  touring caravans, being in high demand. We, like most distributors, dealers and caravan park operators have sold out, and now have nothing to sell. It is the classic scenario of demand outstripping supply. These are the ideal holiday homes to enjoy a staycation in, having complete control of your own ‘bubble’ for a weekend, short break, or main holiday. Families, couples, friends, and individuals can enjoy the countryside and its surroundings from the safety of their own static or touring caravan.

All caravan manufacturers are currently working extremely hard to produce as many new units as they can whilst having to operate safely in this Covid-19 environment. The reality is that it will take time. There will be a shortage for a while, probably to the end of 2021 and into 2022, but it will right itself as we learn to live with covid-19 and eventually beat it. As production increases we will see our orders being completed and we will be able to deliver to our showground,  to the caravan parks that we supply, and  see our stock levels back to where they should be, until then we ask  all our customers to be please be patient.

Our industry will get back to some security and normality and I want to assure all our customers and associates that the Orchard Caravans Leisure Group will continue to offer the best service that we can during this pandemic.

Please understand that our efforts are frustrated by the lack of stock available, the limitations and consequences of Covid-19, and the steps we have to take to keep our team and our customers safe, but we are always positive in achieving the best possible outcome and experience  for our customers.

Finally, I am extremely proud of the wonderful team that make up the Orchard Caravans Leisure Group, they are incredibly special people.

Onwards and Upwards.

Harry Collins

Managing Director.

updated 24/03/21