At the 30th Meeting of the European Leisure Vehicle Industry (MELVI) in Bern, Oliver Grützner, CEO at TCS Camping, offered a compelling insight into the evolving role of TCS as a key player in the Swiss camping landscape. With a network of 26 campsites and over one million annual overnight stays, TCS is not only Switzerland’s market leader in this sector, but also one of the few automotive clubs in Europe to actively operate camping facilities.
In his presentation, Grützner traced the club’s journey from post-war beginnings to its current position, highlighting strategic decisions that followed the 2008 financial crisis – most notably the renewed investment in camping as a response to society’s growing desire for nature, freedom, and digital disconnection.
He also addressed the pressing challenges facing campsite operators today: land-use restrictions, the effects of climate change, rising operational costs, and increasing customer expectations. Grützner emphasised the importance of maintaining camping as an analogue experience, even as digital solutions are integrated into operations. He called for greater collaboration between vehicle manufacturers and campsite managers to preserve the essence of campingand ensure a sustainable future.
Touching on sensitive issues such as wild camping, the transformation of residential sites into tourist destinations, and the growing interest of private investors, Grützner painted a realistic yet optimistic picture. His message was clear: by working together, the industry can continue to deliver the dream of freedom and nature that camping promises.
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