Alpenkreuzer 65 years
A history to be proud of
Alpenkreuzer, an iconic name in the world of trailer tents, is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. Since its establishment in 1958, Alpenkreuzer has provided countless adventurers around the world with high-quality trailer tents.
With our innovative designs and uncompromising attention to quality and comfort, it is no surprise that Alpenkreuzer is a sought-after trailer tent among camping enthusiasts. This anniversary is a milestone in our rich history and we look forward to providing campers with adventures for many more years to come.
Alpenkreuzer entered the market in 1958. The folding trailer was a smart and affordable response to the increased prosperity in the Netherlands.
The country rebounded after the war and society felt a need for outdoor recreation.
A foundation is laid for a completely new form of camping - the tent trailer.
Although more and more brands have entered the market over the years, Alpenkreuzer remains not only a brand name, but also a synonim for tent trailers.
The trailers differ mainly in the size of the bed.
A regular feature of the tent trailers is the roadside kitchen. At that time, it was quite common to recreate along the motorway; the term roadside kitchen originated here.
Consequently, Alpenkreuzer remains the same for a long time, though the wagon is modified in detail.
However, the use of aluminium for the wagon body is very progressive.
With around 4,000 trailer tents sold per year, Alpenkreuzer’s Dutch success is huge, but to maintain this, it takes more than quiet evolution to stay ahead of the competition.
The range of products grows considerably: in the mid-80s, Alpenkreuzer buyers have a choice of seven models!
Yet Alpenkreuzer manages to survive, partly because of the huge success E.K.S. also achieves abroad.
For a successful continuation, E.K.S. opens a German branch, Alpenkreuzer GmbH.
Although Alpenkreuzers are still a rock-solid product, the popularity of tent trailers is steadily declining.
In 2006, E.K.S. had to throw in the towel. After half a century, Alpenkreuzer seems definitely a thing of the past.
This affects holiday spending. Families start paying attention to costs, with camping coming back into the picture.
This reinforces the need for outdoor recreation. The Netherlands is rediscovering back-to-basics camping with a touch of comfort and with it the trailer tent.
Interest in affordable camping equipment is increasing.
Sunshine Group with some strong leisure brands, including Doréma Recreation with its own production facilities in Slovenia, sees growth opportunities for the tent trailer market and decides to revive Alpenkreuzer.
The name still proves abiding, as the public responds enthusiastically.
Even before production of the new models start at Doréma’s own factory in Slovenia, the first orders have already been written.
The beginning of new glory days!
With three new models, the OpenAir, Campfire and the Waterfront on the market, Alpenkreuzer is going strong.
We look forward to an adventurous, innovative future with comfortable camping fun for all.