AL-KO spruiks ridgy didge accessories

The Australian camper trailer industry has already taken a strong stance against the increasing threat of cheaper but often inferior imported campers to the local industry.

Now AL_KO, one of Australia’s biggest suppliers of accessories to the caravan and motorhome market is following suit with a new campaign warning of the risks of using non-genuine ‘rip-offs’.

The latest strategy includes a re-branding of its aftermarket retail product range, with the extensive catalogue of parts and accessories now promoted under a new banner of AL-KO Authentics.

AL-KO marketing manager Brad Hooper said with the majority of new caravans in Australia fitted with AL-KO parts as original equipment, it wasn’t worth risking “a cheaper imitation alternative… for the sake of a few dollars”, particularly if “you’re out in the middle of nowhere and something goes wrong”.

“(AL-KO products are) rated to Australian Design Rules or fully tested to our conditions. The majority of our competitors are bringing cheap stuff in from China,” he said.

“I’m not sure how much testing they’re doing to make sure it does meet Australian standards and compliance…”

Part of German RV accessories giant, AL-KO Kober Group, AL-KO Australia has manufacturing facilities in NSW and Victoria where it designs and engineers various products like its off-road trailer couplings (pictured) and revolutionary stability control system for electric-braked caravans.

Hooper said choosing AL-KO replacement parts also provides the “peace of mind” of a factory-backed warranty as well as a 70-strong national dealer network “if you need parts when you’re out on the road”.

For the full list of AL-KO Authentics' products including jockey wheels, corner steadies, LED trailer lights, bearing kits, winches, brakes and hubs, click here.