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Summary
Since 2020, the global trailer market has shown a dynamic growth trajectory, with an anticipated CAGR of 3.8% until 2031, when the market is expected to be valued at $30.8 billion. The North American region predominates in trailer sales, with a market share of 42% and an anticipated growth rate of 4.7% between 2021 and 2027. The European trailer market has struggled to return to pre-crisis figures, but has shown signs of recovery, with a projected 10% increase in registrations in 2023 for Northwest Europe. Notably, the French trailer market has seen a resurgence, particularly in the light trailer segment, where 85,160 new light trailer registrations have been recorded in 2021, marking an increase of almost 20% on 2020.
The farm trailer segment is fragmented, with no single entity holding a dominant market share.
Overall, demand for trailers remains strong from the transportation, construction and consumer sectors, while technological advances and environmental considerations are driving innovation and the search for greener options within the industry.
An analysis of seasonal demand in the French trailer market
In France, the trailer market has shown a distinct seasonal pattern, with increases in demand closely aligned with major vacation periods such as Easter and the summer vacations. This trend reflects consumer behavior, where individuals frequently seek trailers to increase their vehicle's load capacity for vacation getaways. In contrast, the winter months are marked by a significant drop in trailer sales. The French trailer market has not been spared by external shocks, with the Covid-19 pandemic leaving a marked imprint on sales dynamics. For example, the periods traditionally associated with higher sales - April, May and July - saw a noticeable drop during the peak of the pandemic.
However, there were signs of recovery the following year, with sales rising back to pre-pandemic levels by December 2021. This upward trajectory continued into 2022, with sales indices well above pre-pandemic reference levels. The market is also reacting to broader economic trends, such as price rises due to global events like the conflict in Ukraine and pandemic-induced disruptions. The industrial producer price index for the trailer segment is a tangible example: it has risen from 106 to 130 in the space of two years, underlining the escalation in production costs.
In addition, in the agricultural sub-segment, where trailers are used in the agricultural and forestry machinery sector, sales have steadily increased. Rolland, a Breton manufacturer, holds the largest market share, with others such as Devès and Siam Gyrax also securing significant shares. Despite these trends and variations, the price range of the new trailers remains extensive, catering for a variety of needs and budgets.
From more modest luggage trailers costing between 180 and 250 euros, to more specialized and expensive refrigerated trailers costing between 6,500 and 11,000 euros, the market offers consumers a wide range of choices.
However, it is imperative to recognize that the French trailer market is subject to strict regulations, which impose the necessary documents and licenses depending on the trailer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). These regulations guarantee safety and compliance, while guiding consumers as to the type of vehicle needed to tow the various trailer categories.
In conclusion, the French trailer market is both seasonal and reactive, adapting quickly to economic, regulatory and demand changes. From private individuals looking for extra loading space for their leisure activities, to construction industry professionals in need of reliable transport solutions.
Key players shaping the trailer industry landscape As the trailer market continues to develop to meet the diverse demands of the transportation sector, several companies have emerged as influential industry players, each with their own contributions and specialties.
- Trigano: This French market leader has not only made significant progress in the country, but has also extended its reach through a series of strategic acquisitions. The various brands under the Trigano umbrella cover an impressive range of recreational and utility vehicles, responding innovatively to the needs of the leisure sector while retaining its strength in transportation solutions.
- Legras Industries: Specializing in the design and manufacture of industrial vehicles, Legras Industries has earned a reputation for quality and durability. Its offerings are primarily focused on the transportation of waste, recyclables and bulk goods, underlining the company's commitment to meeting the needs of industry and environmental management.
- Schmitz-Cargobull: As a leading European entity, Schmitz-Cargobull is recognized for its advanced approach to semi-trailer manufacturing. The company is known for incorporating cutting-edge technologies into its products, which range from dry goods to temperature-controlled transport, demonstrating its versatility and sense of innovation.
- Krone: Krone, one of Europe's giants, produces high-quality trailers and agricultural machinery, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and functionality. From simple utility trailers to complex, high-tech transport solutions, Krone caters to a broad customer base that includes the logistics and agricultural sectors.
- Wielton: An important name in the European market, Wielton has carved out a place for itself in offering a wide range of transport solutions designed to meet the rigorous demands of local and international customers. The company's growth and adaptability are evident in the diversity of its product range and its ability to adapt to market changes.
- Humbaur: With its roots in Germany, Humbaur brings to market a complete range of trailers suitable for both commercial and private use. The company prides itself on its blend of innovation and traditional know-how, resulting in high-quality transport solutions.
- Fruehauf: As a name associated with the very history of trailers, Fruehauf maintains a strong presence with its robust and reliable semi-trailers. This brand echoes the blend of tradition and modernity with products designed to meet contemporary transport needs.
By deploying their unique strengths, technical expertise and customer-oriented innovations, these key players are establishing themselves as pillars in a highly competitive and dynamic trailer market. Their contributions not only advance industry standards, but also shape the future of freight and equipment transportation worldwide.
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Inforamtion
- Number of pages : 30 pages
- Format : Digital and PDF versions
- Last update : 23/02/2023
Summary and extracts
1 Market overview
1.1 Definition and scope of study
According toarticle R311-1 of the FrenchHighway Code , a trailer is defined as follows: " Non-self-propelled vehicle on wheels, intended to be towed by another vehicle ". First of all, we can distinguish between trailers and semi-trailers. According to the Agora Store website, semi-trailers are non-motorized vehicles with wheels on the rear section only, the front section being connected to the carrier vehicle via the latter's fifth wheel coupling. Trailers, on the other hand, have front and rear axles and wheels, and are hitched to the carrier vehicle by hook or drawbar.
The global trailer market is dynamic, and is expected to grow at a rate of 3.8% per year until 2031. While North America is the leading regional trailer market, Asia-Pacific and Europe are also important players. After declining during the Covid-19 crisis, the French market is growing again , mainly driven by the light trailer segment. On a European scale, Germany is France's main partner, with a major share of imports coming from our German-speaking neighbors.
Major players in the French trailer market include Trigano, Legras Industries and Hubiè;re.
The trailer market has to keep pace with strong demand from the goods transport and construction sectors, as well as from private individuals who prefer to opt for a less spacious, more practical car, and equip themselves with a trailer for their space requirements (going on vacation, transporting bulky objects, etc.). The sector is undergoing radical change to adapt to two fundamental trends: offering less polluting products (green energies) and promoting technological innovation (Internet of Things, real-time data collection).
1.2 A fast-growing global market
Trailer market size World, ****-****, in billions Source: ****
The trailer market is growing: the cumulative annual growth rate in the global trailer market is expected to be *.*% over a **-year period, taking the market from a value of **.* billion in **** to **.* billion in ****.
North America is the region with the largest ...
1.3 Renewed growth in the European market
The European trailer market has been growing since ****, but is still struggling to recover its pre-Covid figures, which have had a major impact on demand in the transport sector. Holland is the only country in Western Europe where the number of registrations in **** has returned to the same or even higher ...
1.4 Market segmentation for trailers and semi-trailers
Trailer market size France, ****-****, in billions of euros
After a complicated ****-**** period, the French body and trailer manufacturing market is back on the rise, with a strong **% increase between **** and ****.
In the remainder of this section, three types of trailer can be distinguished: semi-trailers, heavy-duty trailers and light-duty ...
1.5 France, a net importer of trailers and semi-trailers
The figures below were obtained using code **** "Trailers and semi-trailers; other vehicles, not mechanically propelled; and their components" on the UN Comtrade international trade site.
Foreign trade in trailers and semi-trailers France, ****-****, in billions of USD Source: ****
While French exports of trailers and semi-trailers remained stable overall from **** to ****, there ...
2 Demand analysis
2.1 Peak demand around Easter and summer vacations
Google Trends QSR France, ****-****, index base *** Source: ****
A study of the evolution of the sales index on the trailer market clearly illustrates its seasonal nature. Indeed, peaks are mainly seen in the days and weeks preceding the Easter and summer vacations. This phenomenon is logical insofar as private individuals mainly ...
2.2 A market affected by the Covid-19 pandemic
Trend in trailer sales France, **** - ****, index base *** **** Source: ****
A study of monthly sales trends in the trailer market clearly shows the impact of Covid-** on the industry. Indeed, while the figures for February and March are not particularly worrying, since this is the slow period on the market, those for ...
2.3 The construction industry, a major outlet for trailers
The building industry is one of the main markets for trailer manufacturers, due to the need for craftsmen and construction workers to transport bulky goods. The Batiweb site, for example, lists trailers and semi-trailers used by construction professionals: there are road trailers, scaffolding trailers, multi-axle trailers (***), semi-trailers with tipper or designed ...
2.4 Freight transport drives the trailer market
Trends in road freight and trailer registrations France, ****-****, in billions of tonne-km, in thousands of units Source: ****
The graph above clearly illustrates the correlation between new trailer registrations and road freight intensity. When road freight traffic increases, demand for trailer registrations rises; conversely, demand falls when fewer goods are transported ...
3 Market structure
3.1 A fragmented market in the throes of consolidation
Number of companies in the bodywork and trailer manufacturing industry France, ****-****, in units Source: ****
Number of employees in the trailer industry France, ****-****, in units Source: ****
According to INSEE data on bodywork and trailer manufacturing, the market is undergoing a major transformation.
There are a large number of companies operating ...
3.2 Three main trailer distribution networks
According to the Erdé brand, the main distribution networks are :
Car centers and supermarkets Motorcycle and agricultural networks Exclusive trailer dealers
Erdé has three product ranges for different networks:
Erdé Classic: auto centers, mass retailers Daxara by Erdé: motorcycle and agricultural networks, specialized networks Erdé Expert: motorcycle and agricultural networks, specialized ...
3.3 The farm trailer market
In addition to trailers for trucks and cars, trailers are also found on the agricultural market. If we look at sales trends in the agricultural and forestry machinery manufacturing sector, which includes the sub-category "self-loading and self-unloading trailers and agricultural semi-trailers", we can see that these are growing. The index in ...
4 Offer analysis
4.1 Products
There are several types of trailer, distinguished by their construction, length or use (***):
The trailer can be made up of a wheel, axles steered by a pivot or a kingpin. Heavy-duty trailers may have several axles to support the weight.
The width of trailers is governed by the Highway Code:
*.** ...
4.2 A market with rising prices
French industrial producer price index for the French market France, ****-****, index base *** in **** Source: ****
While production prices for car bodies, trailers and semi-trailers remained stable overall in ****, **** and ****, with a very slight increase, production prices have begun to rise drastically since the end of ****. The French industry's production price index ...
4.3 Trailer price range by type
Ooreka gives a guide price for new trailers:
Price table by trailer type, France, ****
Source: ****
4.4 A fast-changing market driven by numerous innovations
German strategy consultancy Roland Berger has published a report outlining the main trends that are set to shape the commercial vehicle market over the next decade. These trends revolve around four pillars:
New logistics Electrification and alternative transport Autonomous trucks Digitalization
For the trailer market, pillars *. *. and *. are expected to have ...
5 Regulations
5.1 Strict regulations on trailer use
To comply with trailer regulations, it's important to understand the meaning of the terms used:
PV (***): weight of the trailer without load; GVW (***): maximum weight of the loaded trailer; CU (***): authorized load for transporting goods; Actual weight : refers to the weight of the trailer and its load; the actual weight must ...
6 Positioning the players
6.1 Segmentation of the trailer industry
- Schmitz-Cargobull
- Schwarzmüller
- Wielton
- Krone
- Humbaur
- Kamaz
- Lohr Industrie
- Trouillet Carsosserie groupe
- Hubière
- SEMAT (Zoeller groupe)
- Magyar
- Benalu
- Erdé
- Fruehauf (Wielton Group)
- Decauville Marel (Fassi Group)
- Eurobenne
- Forez Bennes
- Gourdon Frères
- Garnier Remorques
- General au service du cheval
- Bennalu Legras industrie
- Libner
- Remorques Louault Groupe
- Rolland Treflevenez
- Cheval Liberté - Nancy Cheval
- Pommier Groupe
List of charts
- Trailer market size
- Trailer market size by region
- New semi-trailer registrations
- Size of the European light commercial vehicle trailer market
- Development of the light commercial vehicle trailer market in Germany
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Latest news
Val-d'Oise: equipment manufacturer Pommier invests 5 million to modernize - 24/09/2023
- The Pommier Group, equipment supplier to truck trailer manufacturers
- Designs, manufactures and distributes a wide range of industrial body accessories for commercial vehicles, refrigerated trucks and equipment and personnel transfer vehicles for the army.
- The company currently has 300 employees. Current sales total 100 million euros.
- The Pommier Group works with some 10,000 customers throughout Europe.
Light rail: Lohr advances in the Grand Est region - 12/07/2023
- The Lohr Group employs 1,500 people and has forecast sales of €150 million for 2022.
- Lohr plans to deploy a pilot line of battery-powered "Draisy" trains.
- The project is designed to serve small, non-electrified or abandoned train lines.
- The pilot line will link Sarreguemines to Niederbronn-les-Bains.
- Production of around 600 vehicles over the next 15 years is planned.
Gourdon Frères receives grant - 10/04/2023
- Gourdon Frères, based in Aire-sur-l'Adour, specializes in the design and manufacture of trailers, tippers for agriculture and green spaces, and machine carriers for public works, agriculture and road construction.
- As part of its investment program, the company received financial assistance of 187,500 euros. This was used to purchase a painting robot, a press brake and a robotized welding cell.
Alsace-based Lohr turns to Navya to make its city shuttle autonomous. - 26/10/2022
- Lohr: 1,500 employees worldwide
- Sales of 150 million by 2021
- Autonomous mobility systems specialist Navya to automate the Cristal electric city shuttle produced by Lohr
- Navya (€10 million sales, 300 employees) has already deployed 220 other vehicles equipped with its intelligence in 26 countries
Benalu acquires Legras Industries and becomes Benalu-Legras - 29/08/2022
Takeover of Legras Industries by the Benalu Group
Legras Industries founded over a century ago
Expansion of Legras Industries in Europe
Production facilities located in Epernay (51), covering 80,000 m2
Sales of around €80 million
250 employees at Legras Industries
Acquisition strengthens Benalu's European market share in the production of heavy-duty vehicles
Name of consolidated group: Benalu-Legras
Chairman: Arnaud de Ponnat Arnaud de Ponnat
Jean-Rémy Legras remains shareholder
Objective: develop market share in France and Europe through synergies with Benalu
In Côtes-d'Armor, the Garnier group recruits and trains drivers - 11/05/2022
Two job dating events organized by the Garnier Group: Friday May 13, 2022 in Loudéac and Friday May 20, 2022 in Ploufragan.
30 truck driver jobs to be filled.
Garnier has been based in Loudéac (Côtes-d'Armor) since 1973.
The company has a fleet of 900 vehicles.
Garnier employs 1,300 people in France.
Company sales: 145 million euros.
Profiles sought: powder tanker and tautliner semi-trailer drivers, tipper drivers, drivers for deliveries to livestock farms.
Integration and training course offered: from one week to one month, in pairs with a tutor.
HGV license financing available.
Attractive salaries, with a 6% increase this year, and bonuses leading to a 13th month.
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