First Camp Expands into Germany – the Nordic Region’s Largest Camping Chain Grows

Stockholm, 01.07.2025 – First Camp, the largest camping chain in the Nordics, is taking its next major strategic step by entering the German market through the acquisition of the Via Claudia campsite in Bavaria. This expansion marks First Camp’s presence in five countries – following its market entries in Denmark (2019), Norway (2022), and Finland (2025). The chain has grown from 24 destinations in 2018 to 75 today.

“Germany is Europe’s largest camping market and about 50 percent larger than the entire Nordic region. We see significant potential to support a more professional and consolidated structure in Germany – just as we have successfully done in the Nordics over recent years,” says Johan Söör, CEO of First Camp.

Clear Market Demand and a Strong Foundation

First Camp already has a solid relationship with the German market – German guests currently account for around 15% of all overnight stays at its destinations in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway.

“With the acquisition of Via Claudia, we gain a strong foothold in southern Germany, close to the Alps and the popular hiking trails along the Lech River and Via Claudia Augusta. We approach this opportunity with great humility – and our top priority is to maintain the high quality and guest experience,” Söör continues.

The current owner and site manager, Felicitas Weber, will continue to manage the site during an extended transition period. No changes to the guest experience are planned.

First Step in a Broader Growth Strategy

“Via Claudia is a natural first step into Germany, but our ambitions don’t stop there. We are actively exploring further opportunities in the German market and are open to different ownership and partnership models – both in Germany and across other European markets. We’ve also recently completed a successful bond financing, opening up even more opportunities,” concludes Johan Söör.

Via Claudia generated approximately 3.6 MEUR in revenue in 2024. The campsite will be owned by FC Husky HoldCo, a sister company of First Camp Group AB, and thus sits outside the bond structure of First Camp Group AB. The acquisition is being financed through FC Husky HoldCo’s available cash and existing credit facilities.

For further information, please contact:

Johan Söör
CEO, First Camp
johan.soor@firstcamp.se
+46 (0)766-411 825
 

About us

First Camp Group AB, operating under the main brand First Camp, is Northern Europe’s leading chain for camping and resorts. The company manages over 70 destinations across Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and Finland, including four under independent brands. The chain offers more than 16,000 pitches for caravans and motorhomes and over 3,500 cabins. Since 2017, First Camp has acquired more than 60 destinations and focuses on growth through digitalisation, guest satisfaction, and sustainability.