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Munich-based outdoor travel expert expands operations, gains popularity in Europe and the U.S., and secures a 21 million euros investment. roadsurfer celebrates a successful first year in the United States (Los Angeles) with impressive growth, and a larger fleet of rental camper vans, as demand for outdoor adventure and road trips continues to rise. Thanks to a significant cash infusion, the German company is expanding its operations across Europe and the U.S. in 2023.
The German camper van/RV rental operator experienced a staggering increase in its 2022 business income and nearly doubling the previous year’s revenue. The company’s foray into the U.S. market has been met with enthusiasm, as American travelers continue to embrace the #vanlife trend and embark on road trips starting from the Los Angeles station.
To cater to the growing demand, the company recently purchased brand new vehicles to add to the Los Angeles fleet, doubling it in size within just one business year. The company offers camper vans in two categories, comfortably sleeping four or two persons: the Road House XL and Couple Condo. Fleet models are the Winnebago Solis (layout 59 PX), Winnebago Travato (layout 59K), as well as Thor Motor Coach models Tellaro (layout 20A) and Sequence (layout 20L). The Los Angeles station sees bookings from Europeans visiting California, and Americans from Southern California and other states.
With a positive outlook for the current year, roadsurfer secured a 21-million-euro investment for 2023. Austrian Invest AG contributed 15 million euros, while existing investors added an additional 6 million euros. These funds will fuel further expansion and increased profitability for roadsurfer in both the U.S. and Europe.
In its sixth year of operation, roadsurfer is boasting a fleet of nearly 5.000 compact camper vans, and now operates over 50 rental stations across twelve European countries, including its first U.S. rental station in Los Angeles, established in June 2022. roadsurfer opens six new rental stations in 2023, including two stations in Germany, two in Sweden, and two in Italy. The company is also exploring possibilities for further expansion in the U.S.
The popularity of #vanlife, the trend of traveling in personal camper vans, has significantly increased during and after the pandemic. “Since our foundation, we have observed a consistent surge in demand for camper vans, as customers seek individual road trip experiences. Flexible and personalized travel planning is of utmost importance to our clientele,” says Dr. Susanne Dickhardt, co-founder and managing director of roadsurfer.
In addition to its core business of RV and camper van rentals, the company offers “roadsurfer spots,” an app-based booking platform with access to over 10,000 individual private camping spots (currently available in Europe only).
To celebrate freedom and independence on the 4th of July roadsurfer currently offers a unique discount for all travels from the L.A. station. Customers save $200 on their RV rental bookings until July 7th with the code 4JULY23.
