Company details
The RAPIDO Group story started in 1948 when Constant Rousseau, a cabinetmaker by trade, decided to found his company in Châtillon-sur-Colmont in France. He set up his first workshop in a room of a private house. At the time, Constant Rousseau specialised in carving furniture. The company grew to employ 15 people as the focus shifted to carpentry.
The first caravan
In 1958, Constant Rousseau made the first folding caravan for his family to use. This creation proved decisive in shifting the companys focus. During the 1960s, he perfected his invention which went on to win several awards (including first prize in the Lépine competition).
New energy
Everything took off from that point, with the company growing and expanding to foreign markets. All the European countries showed great enthusiasm for this new, extraordinary product. With business booming, Constant Rousseau decided to open a new factory in Mayenne which came into being in 1975. One year later, Pierre Rousseau joined the company alongside his father.
The early 80s marked a major turning point for RAPIDO. The caravan market had started to decline. However, the motorhome market was showing strong growth. Pierre Rousseau was mindful of diversifying the company and decided to tackle the motorhome market. In 1983 the first RAPIDO motorhome was released: the Randonneur 410! But it took until the 90s for the first Rapido A-Class to emerge.
From basic brand to genuine group
Drawing on its experience, RAPIDO began to accelerate its growth by adding to its brand portfolio. A brand creation/acquisition strategy was implemented and has today resulted in Rapido becoming one of the biggest recreational vehicle groups:
1993: acquisition of Esterel
1998: creation of Rapidhome (mobile homes)
2005: acquisition of Fleurette
2006: creation of Itineo
2010: acquisition of Westfalia
2010: acquisition of Westfalia
2014: creation of Dreamer
2016: acquisition of P.L.A./Giottiline
2017: acquisition of Wildax and Stylevan
Three generations
In 2014, Pierre Rousseaus son Nicolas joined the company and took over the management of sales and marketing. Passion for this product has been kindled in a third generation.
More
Less