Devon Conversions Returns. But Can the 70-Year-Old Brand Adapt?

Devon Conversions has been building campervans since the 1950s, but after closing in 2025, the long-established name could easily have disappeared. Instead, it has a new owner, a fresh start and quite a challenge ahead: how do you modernise a traditional campervan brand without losing the loyal owners who made it what it is? Motorhome Matt talks to Steve Fairbairn, the new owner of Devon Conversions, about what happened when the business closed, why he decided the name was worth preserving and what comes next. With customers returning for their fifth and sixth Devon campervans, there’s plenty Steve doesn’t want to change. But attracting a different generation of buyers means the familiar Devon formula can’t simply stand still. Keith and Matt pick up that question afterwards as we look at the wider shift towards van conversions and micro campers. Is the market moving away from traditional caravans, and what does the changing mix of buyers mean for manufacturers and dealers? There’s also some striking industry news. Matt and Keith discuss Brownhills reporting a pre-tax loss of £961,000, compared with a £1.22 million pre-tax profit the previous year, while Grantham’s Caravans is moving in the opposite direction. What might these contrasting figures tell us about the state of the motorhome and caravan trade? And in the Q&A, Matt answers your questions on: - What happens to your servicing and warranty if the motorhome dealer you bought from goes bust? - Could fitting a porch awning create a carbon monoxide risk? - Are motorhomes really designed to cope with full-time or semi-permanent van life? There’s a lot changing in the campervan and motorhome world, and Devon’s return is a fascinating example of the balancing act facing the industry. Join Matt and Keith as they look at what’s worth preserving, what needs to change and what owners need to keep an eye on. Find out more: DEVON CONVERSIONS: devonconversions.co.uk CHAT WITH MOTORHOME MATT: mhmp.info/chat 15% OFF INSURANCE: mhmp.info/ripeinsurance ASK MATT: mhmp.info/askmatt *The Motorhome Matt podcast is brought to you by That Leisure Shop, camping and leisure vehicle accessory specialists.* *10% off your first order with the code MOTORHOMEMATT.*