by Marcus Dubois
Bailey Caravans has revealed it will delay the launch of an “entry-level” model in its Alu-Tech range until early next year. The firm has cited the popularity of its newest model, the Bailey Unicorn as the reason to hold back the introduction of a new range of vehicles.
In correspondence with Caravan Times earlier this week, Bailey revealed that “it was our original intention to launch an entry level Alu-Tech range at the NEC show in October. However in light of the very positive public response to the new Unicorn range availability pre-Christmas is likely to be extremely limited.” As a result of these findings the firm “has decided to delay the launch until early next year.”
Such timing would coincide with the popular Boat and Caravan Show in 2011 which will take place at the end of February. Last year’s show saw 100,000 visitors at the NEC in Birmigham, at which the new Olympus was one of the main attractions. Additionally, the expected rise in VAT will lead some caravan buyers to search for greater value.
Alu-Tech success
The Bristol manufacturer launched its new aluminium-based construction platform named “Alu-Tech” last year with the Bailey Pegasus. Described by the firm as “the most significant development in caravan production technology for over 30 years”, the design is notable for the absence of external fixings, thereby reducing the likelihood of water ingress.
After record sales at International Caravan and Motorhome 2009 confirmed the popularity of the new construction method, Bailey soon introduced a second Alu-Tech model in the Olympus. And enthusiasm for the new technology from existing Bailey owners fond of the long-standing Senator range led to the creation of this summer’s newest model, the Unicorn.
Future additions to the family
With three new models in the space of a year, Bailey recently moved to phase out production of caravans in its “classic construction” range. The popularity of the Pegasus saw the end of the Bailey Senator, while last month the Pageant Series 7 was discontinued with immediate effect following strong sales of the Olympus range.
Such action has left room in the new portfolio for an entry-level model, and in a recent interview with Caravan Times marketing director Simon Howard confirmed that Bailey will soon produce all its caravans on the new construction platform.
“This is the construction technique of the future for us. We’re going to be living in a totally Alu-Tech world”.
Bailey will be displaying its 2011 line-up at International Caravan and Motorhome Show 2010 which takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from 12-17 October.
