Caravan sales at Hull manufacturer Willerby soared by over five per cent in 2018, despite tough competition from rivals.
The 73-year-old firm, based in Hedon Road, saw its turnover pass the £170m mark last year, as profits before tax also rose from £12.2m to £14.3m.
Willerby continued its heavy investment into research & development in 2018, with £2m spent on developing new products.
Directors wrote in recently-filed accounts: “Profit has increased due to production efficiencies, an expansion of the lodges and other modular leisure buildings market and an upturn in the core market of holiday homes.
“The finished good stock value has increased at the end of this period from a particularly low base in 2017.
“This change also came from a combination of richer mix of product and the company’s continued growth.”
Willerby’s story dates back to 1946 when the firm was launched by founders Walter Allen and John Richardson.
Today, the business has two showrooms in Hull and in Scotland, and employs around 1,000 people.
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Sales in 2018 rose from £165.9m to £174.8m at Willerby, in what was a strong year of growth.
Directors said: “Over the last few days, the board have developed a strategy based on the introduction of new products that satisfy customer needs in the core market of holiday homes, which includes both caravans and lodges.
“The company will continue to invest in its production facilities when appropriate, to ensure it is able to satisfy demand…”
Willerby also recently re-launched its iconic Vogue model, to celebrate the company’s 70-plus year history.
The first Vogue was manufactured in Hull in 1956.
Over 60 years later, Willerby has released its new version of one of its best-selling models, called ‘Vogue Classique.’
Kirsten Bolton, marketing director at Willerby, said: “The Vogue model has played a pivotal part in our history over the past 63 years, and holds a special place in the heart of the Willerby team.
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“We’ve revitalised an old treasured favourite and given it a modern makeover.
“We’re extremely proud of this truly luxurious model; it is a fantastic choice for couples who lead busy lives to enjoy a weekend getaway, surrounded by gorgeous features and interiors.”
The Hull manufacturer’s new ‘Vogue Classique’ can be seen at both showrooms.
The original Vogue dating back to 1956, and one of only 10 in the country, can also be seen at the Hull showground.
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