Latest Willerby models excite showgoers at industry’s premier event

Leading holiday homes manufacturer Willerby has wowed attendees with the debut of two new models at the industry’s largest event. The Great Caravan Motorhome & Holiday Home Show, the industry’s premier event, is expected to attract over 25,000 visitors to the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate, a significant increase from last year’s 8,000 attendees.

These newly unveiled models expand Willerby’s impressive portfolio, joining a line up of 21 holiday homes, lodges, and park homes on display, ensuring a standout presence for the brand at the show.

This is only the second year the event has been held in Harrogate, following its move from The Lawns in Cottingham, East Yorkshire. The relocation to a larger venue has allowed the event to grow, with more exhibitors and attractions, while the central location has made it more accessible, attracting a wider range of visitors.

Willerby’s CEO, Peter Munk, who also serves as this year’s show chairman, commented: “We’re very excited to be here supporting this fantastic event. Ticket sales have been very strong and you can certainly feel the energy across the showground. 

“It’s only year two, but it’s clear that the show is now firmly established at its new home in Harrogate and offers an unrivalled showcase for the holiday homes industry and related sectors all in one place. 

“We see this as the industry’s leading event, for both the public and trade, and that’s why we invest so much in bringing so many of our models here. It’s a great opportunity to engage with current and potential Willerby owners and our trade partners and friends.

“We’re delighted with the feedback we have received and we’ve enjoyed welcoming so many visitors to the Willerby village.”

Visitors have had the chance to explore Willerby’s two new models: the Rio and the Malton Elite. The Rio offers spacious storage and a modern interior, perfect for holidaymakers looking for extra room, while the Malton Elite provides a luxurious yet affordable option compared to pricier models of a similar size.

The Rio, which replaces the Linwood range, boasts 50% more storage than its predecessor. This extra space is created through various smart storage solutions, such as under-seat storage in the lounge, hidden space under the dinette bench, a larger hallway cupboard, and built-in wardrobes in the bedroom. The Rio comes in three versions: the 12ft Rio, the 10ft Rio Compact, and the Rio Access, which is designed to accommodate wheelchair users with wide access doors, a low threshold, turning circles, a pod shower room, and a low-level kitchen.

The Malton Elite, a 14ft version of Willerby’s 12ft Malton, is an entry-level model but in a bigger size. It features an open-plan layout and an inviting interior design in shades of mauve pink and cashmere, offering customers a premium look without the premium price.

Tina and Dave Cowham attended the show with their dog Hugo and visited the festival-themed Willerby Village. Tina said: “We’re here for ideas and inspiration and have been really impressed with what we’ve seen from Willerby. We’re huge stay-caters – for us, it’s all about dog holidays with Hugo.

“We’re amazed by the festival set-up displayed by the Willerby team. It’s very creative!”

Dave said: “Holiday homes like Willerby’s have given us food for thought on a possible lifestyle change. They’re so impressive.”

Alan and Hazel Cartledge, owners of Glenfinart Caravan Park in Dunoon on Scotland’s north-west coast, also explored the Malton Elite for the first time. Alan said “The layout is brilliant. The lounge space in particular is very good, but also the bedroom and the shower room. That extra space is really important to holiday-goers.

“We’re impressed with the décor and the interior. I think the Malton Elite will be a big success – Willerby has knocked it out of the park!”

Emillie Ayre, Willerby Product Manager, said: “Our new models have been developed and designed to respond to market trends and customer needs. We found that people want more room to store their belongings, allowing them to take advantage of their space to relax and enjoy their holidays.

“Additionally, our new designs are intended to be a bit bolder and fun, reflecting the exciting times that customers will have on their holidays.”

The Great Caravan Motorhome & Holiday Home Show is open to the public until September 8, and will continue as a trade show from September 10-12.