Stonewall Leisure
Stonewall Leisure vehicle parts and conversion specialists has come a long way since our first meeting in 2021. Back then, they offered fully bespoke vehicle conversion services and had ambitious plans for expansion. Today, we’re catching up with owner Chris to see how those plans have evolved.
Keeping it in the family
“Kate, who used to manage the office, recently moved on, so I’ve taken over that role for now,” says Chris. “I just got married, and my wife, also named Kate, will be joining us one day a week. My dad still comes in one to two days a week, so it’s truly a family-run business. We’re also looking to hire for a workshop role soon, so watch this space!”
Back in 2021, one of Chris’s goals was to manufacture DIY furniture kits for customers converting their own vehicles. Let’s see how that plan unfolded.
Investing in the future
“In mid-2021, we made a significant investment in the machinery needed to produce conversion kits. We chose a larger machine to accommodate making new panels and large flooring kits. Typically, van floors come in separate parts that need to be assembled, but our investment allowed us to offer a unique one-piece floor and roof, which is easier to install and looks great. We also developed a practical kitchen kit for Transporter vehicles, offering significantly more storage than other options. Customers can either assemble the kit themselves or have it installed by us.”
Leisure vehicle parts and conversion specialists
“Many of our customers follow similar journeys with their leisure vehicles,” Chris explains. “They often come back for additional modifications after using their vehicles for a while. Their initial needs tend to change as they gain experience. We also work with beginners who are just starting out with small adjustments to suit their hobbies, like mountain biking or creating more space for pets. For those customers, we provide self-build guidance and have developed removable pod units that offer flexible solutions like sinks with storage or workspaces. These pods aren’t fixed, so customers can install and remove them as needed in a couple of minutes. It’s perfect for those new to van conversions.”
Another one of Chris’s plans from 2021 involved offering parts, accessories, and repair services for campers already on the road.
The repair shop
“The repair side of the business has really taken off. Since repairs usually have a quick turnaround, we’ve been able to maintain a steady stream of work. Conversion jobs, on the other hand, can be delayed due to supply chain issues, especially since European manufacturers often shut down during the summer. The repair work keeps us busy during the peak season when people are using their leisure vehicles.”
During my tour of the Stonewall Leisure unit, where both conversions and repairs take place, I was impressed by the clean, organised space and the meticulous attention to detail.
Uncompromising attention to detail
“I’m very particular about detail,” Chris admits. “A customer with a 1974 retro camper from Germany was recommended to us for a specific conversion, but I initially declined because I didn’t have the time to do it to the required standard. However, after the third recommendation, I agreed! It was a major project, requiring us to strip the vehicle down and completely rebuild it. It was a team effort between us and the customer. They had a detailed plan loosely based on the Airstream styling but trusted us to make adjustments based on our expertise. For example, we added soft-close drawers that don’t rattle, and an off-grid power system allowing them to work for extended periods while away, without issue. The result was a blend of modern functionality without losing the camper’s retro design. The customer loved it and is already planning to come back for phase two.”
It seems like Chris has achieved many of his goals from 2021, so what’s next for Stonewall Leisure?
In the pipeline
“We’re currently working on new products for people with bikes, like mounting systems and storage units that can double as beds, along with dog crates. Most of these prototypes come from either customer feedback or my own needs.”
To wrap things up, I asked Chris about his experience being a tenant at the Terry Dicken Business Park.
Easy to do business
“Moving here was absolutely the right decision. Mark and Sue have been incredibly supportive, and so have the other businesses. Everyone is friendly and helpful. In our corner of the park, I’m close with Jane & Jo from Rooms and Jonathan at Direct Business Supplies. Darren at Platinum Motors takes care of our mechanical work, and I’ve worked with Alex at Autobodycraft and John at Fibre-Lyte. John’s expertise in carbon fibre has been fascinating—he’s helped us incorporate different techniques into our furniture and has even created carbon fibre parts for pop-top roofs.”
Who knew there was so much happening at the Terry Dicken Business Park?!
Need repairs on your camper van? Looking to make upgrades like solar panels or custom furniture? Stonewall Leisure vehicle parts and conversion specialists are located at Unit 2a, Terry Dicken Industrial Estate, Ellerbeck Way, Stokesley, TS9 5JZ.
Call 01642 714650 or visit their website.
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