Today marks a big day for the Irish hire market, seeing the Camperco Group acquired by Australian firm, Apollo Tourism and Leisure Ltd, for an attractive £4.5 million. This deal includes the acquisition of all of the brands that sit under the group; consisting of the well-known campervan hire business; Bunk Campers.
Headquartered in Belfast, the Camperco Group is an independent firm that boasts four UK and Ireland businesses; all of which are hugely established and flourishing within their niches. Established back in 2007 by Keith Charlton and Louise Corken, it is a family-run business that has always focused on the importance of great customer service. Employing 40 people at its base, the business grew and grew to become the largest motorhome rental operator in the UK and Ireland.
Whilst an acquisition can signal a loss of control for the business purchased, this deal will see the business able to enter new markets, with Camperco displaying huge hopes for their brands across Europe.
Mr Charlton, Managing Director of Camperco, says:
“At Camperco we have a clear mission to become the first choice for campervan and motorhome rentals and sales in Europe. We built our company up from five vans in 2007 and today we are a significant step closer to realising our ambition with Apollo’s backing.”
Mrs Corken, the group’s Marketing Manager reiterates this point.
“Apollo is committed to significant growth in Europe and we will become a vital pillar in its strategy to become a global motorhome solution. The category is forecast for significant further growth and we are geared to capitalise on this and continue to expand our business, increase our footprint and create jobs in the coming years.”
Like Camperco, Apollo has for many years displayed their want to evolve into a global motorhome brand, with this deal bringing them closer to that goal. Listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, the company can now manufacture and rent out a range of vehicles across Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States, the UK and Ireland.
Apollo’s Managing Director and CEO, Luke Trouchet, added:
“We are delighted to acquire Camperco, a strong and successful motorhome rental business based in the UK and Ireland. This acquisition will further strengthen our position as a global operator of motorhomes and allow further expansion into Europe.”
What you think about this deal; should UK businesses be merging with brands from overseas in an attempt to expand? Let us know your thoughts.
