Is the Caravan Crisis Finally Over? Big Changes at Swift & What’s Next for 2026

In this episode, we take a deep dive into what’s really been happening in the UK caravan industry — and why there might finally be light at the end of the tunnel. After a turbulent few years marked by dealer closures, overproduction, and the cost of living crisis, are we finally seeing stability return to the market? Darren shares his insider perspective on how the caravan trade is resetting for 2026, what lessons have been learned, and why smaller businesses have been able to adapt more easily than large dealerships. We also discuss a major shake-up at Swift Group, with Peter Smith returning to take the reins — along with industry veterans Nick Page and Gary O’Brien stepping back in. Darren explores what these leadership changes could mean for product quality, warranty issues, and the company’s long-term direction. Plus, there’s talk of new investments in manufacturing, design improvements (including better sunroof installations), and a renewed focus on fixing long-standing problems instead of repeating them. 🎙️ Darren will also be at the Caravan Show next week at the Caravan Radio stand — come and say hello, ask your questions, and hear what’s next for the caravan world. Chapters: 0:00 Intro & second take 0:25 The caravan crisis explained 2:30 Dealer closures and overproduction 4:40 Finance strain and the 2024 slowdown 6:00 Resetting for 2026 8:00 Market confidence returning 9:45 Big leadership changes at Swift 12:00 Fixing design and warranty issues 14:30 Improvements to manufacturing and quality 17:00 Final thoughts & Caravan Show invite Tags: caravan crisis, Swift caravans, UK caravan industry, caravan dealers, motorhomes, caravan market 2026, caravan news, caravan manufacturing, Bailey caravans, Elddis, caravan radio, Peter Smith Swift, Nick Page Swift, caravan sales, caravan show 2025