A customer traveled 637 miles in a single day to purchase a campervan from Redline Campers, attributing his decision solely to the company’s NCC approval.
Stuart Smith, a Glasgow resident, undertook a multi-leg journey by plane, train, and taxi to collect the vehicle from Redline’s Daventry location on March 1.
Redline Campers, based in Watford Gap near Daventry, became an NCC Approved Manufacturer in July 2024.
Since receiving the designation, the company has seen increased interest from customers seeking assurance in safety and quality standards. Smith’s extensive trip underscores the growing influence of NCC accreditation on purchasing decisions within the campervan market.
Smith departed Glasgow Airport at 9:45 a.m. and arrived at Redline’s facility by 12:20 p.m. After finalizing the purchase, he was on the road back to Scotland by 1:00 p.m.
While customers frequently travel to acquire Redline campervans, Smith’s journey highlights a trend of buyers prioritizing the company’s NCC certification when selecting a vehicle.
Redline Campers is one of only five VW campervan converters in the UK authorized to carry the NCC badge. The company’s adherence to strict safety and quality checks, along with its ISO 9001 certification, was a significant factor in Smith’s decision.
He previously co-owned a campervan rental business and sought a conversion that met rigorous industry standards.
“The Redline website is reassuring; it explains the number of checks involved and highlights that Redline is one of the few companies with an ISO 9001 certification and NCC approval,” Smith said. “Since I will be using this campervan with my family and also renting it out, this gives me peace of mind.”
To earn NCC Manufacturer Approval, Redline’s conversions undergo an inspection covering up to 600 points, including gas and electrical systems, furnishings, and cooking appliances. Compliance with BS EN 1646 European Health & Safety Standards ensures that the vehicles meet stringent safety requirements.
Additionally, Redline’s campervans are VCA Type Approved and manufactured under an ISO 9001:2015-certified Quality Management System.
Smith emphasized the importance of these certifications in his purchasing decision. “Redline Campers’ ISO 9001 certificate and NCC approval were key selling points for me. It assures me that the build was done professionally and safely, both for my family and for renting it out. I believe it will also be a good selling point for future renters, easing their concerns.”
Following his purchase, Smith has several trips planned, including visits to the West Highland Way, the Outer Hebrides, and the North Coast 500. He also intends to take his campervan to Europe in the future. Reflecting on his journey home, he described it as enjoyable despite being tiring, adding that it was an effective way to test the vehicle’s performance.
Simon McGrath, Director of Communications at the NCC, noted that Smith’s journey illustrates the significance of NCC accreditation for consumers. “The NCC Badge of Approval demonstrates a manufacturer’s commitment to product safety. Stuart’s 637-mile trip highlights just how important it is for customers, and we hope he enjoys many more happy miles in his Redline campervan.”
Redline Campers was launched in 2017 and specializes in VW and Ford campervan conversions, adhering to an ISO 9001:2015-certified Quality Management System at its Northamptonshire facility.