Vanbitz Motorhome Alarms. End of an Era?

[sedge]

Have you seen Eddie play, he reminds me of Les Dawson playing the piano.

Yes but no but - in order to play 'badly but still be able to pretty well recognise the tune' - you have to first be a pretty competent pianist.

 

[Minxy]

I thought I saw a post the other day that vanbitz hAd gone into motorhome sales, did I dream it?

No you didn't dream it, or if you did I had the same dream

Yup I saw it too ....

 

[dash300]

Yup I saw it too ....

Motorhome Sales sign also displayed at Vanbitz Cornish Farm too! Might be an extension of Select Motorhomes but not there logo.

 

[Abacist]

Is Eddie now on a bath chair in some state run carehome in darkest Somerseti watching the RWC 2003 on a loop, smoking his Woodbines , sipping some cheap sherry from the local co-op. Dressed in an old cardigan, with his breakfast encrusted on the front, those pompom slippers and some faded Corduroy pants held up with some bailing twine and some broken braces. Teeff in and old jam jar, soaking in brine, on the table next to him a 1968 copy of a Freeman's catalogue, some pages welded together.

Ah bliss, getting old..

Rock on Eddie Van Bitz

Sounds like a nice self portrait of yourself ShiftZZ

 

[Minxy]

Motorhome Sales sign also displayed at Vanbitz Cornish Farm too! Might be an extension of Select Motorhomes but not there logo.

It was definitely something to do with Vanbitz itself, can't remember where I read about it though! Might have been an advert on here.

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[eddie]

Yes but no but - in order to play 'badly but still be able to pretty well recognise the tune' - you have to first be a pretty competent pianist.

I’ll admit that I have several guitars, and I did have seven years of weekly Classical guitar lessons as a kid.

And yes, I did once appear on stage with my blues hero, the man, the legend, Mr Chuck Berry

 

[Minxy]

And yes, I did once appear on stage with my blues hero, the man, the legend, Mr Chuck Berry

You weren't playing with your dingaling too I hope!

 

[ShiftZZ]

You weren't playing with your dingaling too I hope!

He did say he had a small part.

 

[ShiftZZ]

I’ll admit that I have several guitars, and I did have seven years of weekly Classical guitar lessons as a kid.

And yes, I did once appear on stage with my blues hero, the man, the legend, Mr Chuck Berry

I found it

 

[ShiftZZ]

I found it


View attachment 1051729

At least you could have played the strat..

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[Blaydon]

Hi folks.
Interesting news.
Like many others, we consider ourselves loyal customers of Vanbitz having been with them since the early 2000s
But, loyal to what? The badge, the electronic trickery, the people, the philosophy of the company?
We could go off and find cheaper, more local suppliers of Alarms, Solar, Batteries etc from CaravanstuffRus, but when you are stuck in the middle of Europe with a problem are they likely to pick up the phone and spend an hour talking you through the solution so you can carry on with your trip?
‘Vanbitz’ had become shorthand for quality of service. This was built on years of knowledge and customer care, that can’t be bought and sold like a bag of spanners.
While I am sure Darrel and his team are looking to grow the business while maintaining as much of the old philosophy as they can, it is clear they are looking to diversify which could mean distraction.
Ash is looking to start again, hopefully with the old philosophy and attention to detail on which the old business was based. Of course, we don’t know if he can do it, but the evidence suggests he has the skills and the knowledge- and Eddie’s phone number if required.
I guess you pay your money and take your choice.
I would love to see both companies do well, so we have real choice and spread expertise. As always, a key factor will be price. So it will be interesting to see how much of ‘The good name’ really costs in the future.

 

[BrochMike]

Might have been an advert on here.

I saw something too and guess it was deleted for this very reason!!

 

[AshWattGuardz]

So how do I start...

As many of you know, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of this amazing industry since I was just 13 years old. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people, customers who have become more than just clients, but true friends. That connection means a great deal to me, which is why I wanted to take a moment to share my story with you… and introduce something new and exciting.

From a young age, working alongside my parents, Eddie and Lyn, at Van Bitz was always my dream. After all, I’d grown up surrounded by adventure—touring Europe, meeting wonderful people, and yes, the money didn’t hurt either!

I’ve spent 27 fantastic years in this industry, 24 of those proudly at Van Bitz. Between 2009 and 2012, I took a break to broaden my experience, working as a sales advisor at Chelston Motorhomes. That role gave me valuable insight into the various types of motorhomes, their unique layouts, and the wide range of factory-fitted equipment available, helping me offer even better service when I returned.

At Van Bitz, especially under my parents’ ownership, we prided ourselves on being innovators, delivering state-of-the-art security and electrical enhancements and staying one step ahead of the curve. When the company was sold in December 2022, I remained fully committed. I had ambitious ideas to grow the business, enhance our offerings, and most importantly, listen to you, our valued customers.

Unfortunately, despite initial support, those ideas were ultimately shelved and I felt the core values of Van Bitz, the values I believe in, were no longer being upheld.

After many sleepless nights and heartfelt discussions with family and friends, I made the incredibly difficult decision to part ways with Van Bitz. My final working day will be Friday, 23rd May 2025. I can also confirm the Nick has also given notice to quit. As for the team in the workshop, AJ left the company on the 24th April and after speaking with Dave recently, I have learnt that he will also be handing in his notice too.

But with every ending comes a new beginning…

I’m proud to introduce my new company – WattGuardz.

Launching on Monday, 2nd June 2025, WattGuardz is my way of bringing a fresh vision to life. A company rooted in customer service, trust, and the same commitment to quality that many of you have come to know over the years.

WattGuardz will focus on providing the highest standards in motorhome security and enhanced electrical systems, while also expanding into exciting new areas based on what you, our community, actually want and need.

And don’t worry, if you currently have a Van Bitz system, we haven’t forgotten about you. As a thank-you and continued commitment, we are exclusively offering all Motorhome Fun members the chance to register with WattGuardz at no cost. We’ll create a file for you and, wherever possible, honour your existing warranties. This offer will remain open until 30th September 2025. Further more we will also be offering a launch promotion of 15% discount across a wide range of our products. This will run until the 30th June and then we will provide a 10% discount on our products.

Behind the scenes, we’re working with a brilliant team to bring this dream to life. A new, bespoke website is on its way, and our initial product range will include the trusted systems you know and love (but with a twist), customised and installed with the care and attention you deserve. As we grow, so too will the services we offer.

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my family at Van Bitz over the years. I genuinely look forward to continuing our journey together, whether through aftersales support or exciting new installations.

If you would like to contact us then please do so by either sending me a private message, email me or call me on the details below.

Here’s to new beginnings.
Here’s to WattGuardz.

Ash
Email: info@wattguardz.com
Tel: 07403 678977

 

[Tony and Andree]

So how do I start...

As many of you know, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of this amazing industry since I was just 13 years old. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people, customers who have become more than just clients, but true friends. That connection means a great deal to me, which is why I wanted to take a moment to share my story with you… and introduce something new and exciting.

From a young age, working alongside my parents, Eddie and Lyn, at Van Bitz was always my dream. After all, I’d grown up surrounded by adventure—touring Europe, meeting wonderful people, and yes, the money didn’t hurt either!

I’ve spent 27 fantastic years in this industry, 24 of those proudly at Van Bitz. Between 2009 and 2012, I took a break to broaden my experience, working as a sales advisor at Chelston Motorhomes. That role gave me valuable insight into the various types of motorhomes, their unique layouts, and the wide range of factory-fitted equipment available, helping me offer even better service when I returned.

At Van Bitz, especially under my parents’ ownership, we prided ourselves on being innovators, delivering state-of-the-art security and electrical enhancements and staying one step ahead of the curve. When the company was sold in December 2022, I remained fully committed. I had ambitious ideas to grow the business, enhance our offerings, and most importantly, listen to you, our valued customers.

Unfortunately, despite initial support, those ideas were ultimately shelved and I felt the core values of Van Bitz, the values I believe in, were no longer being upheld.

After many sleepless nights and heartfelt discussions with family and friends, I made the incredibly difficult decision to part ways with Van Bitz. My final working day will be Friday, 23rd May 2025. I can also confirm the Nick has also given notice to quit. As for the team in the workshop, AJ left the company on the 24th April and after speaking with Dave recently, I have learnt that he will also be handing in his notice too.

But with every ending comes a new beginning…

I’m proud to introduce my new company – WattGuardz.

Launching on Monday, 2nd June 2025, WattGuardz is my way of bringing a fresh vision to life. A company rooted in customer service, trust, and the same commitment to quality that many of you have come to know over the years.

WattGuardz will focus on providing the highest standards in motorhome security and enhanced electrical systems, while also expanding into exciting new areas based on what you, our community, actually want and need.

And don’t worry, if you currently have a Van Bitz system, we haven’t forgotten about you. As a thank-you and continued commitment, we are exclusively offering all Motorhome Fun members the chance to register with WattGuardz at no cost. We’ll create a file for you and, wherever possible, honour your existing warranties. This offer will remain open until 30th September 2025. Further more we will also be offering a launch promotion of 15% discount across a wide range of our products. This will run until the 30th June and then we will provide a 10% discount on our products.

Behind the scenes, we’re working with a brilliant team to bring this dream to life. A new, bespoke website is on its way, and our initial product range will include the trusted systems you know and love (but with a twist), customised and installed with the care and attention you deserve. As we grow, so too will the services we offer.

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my family at Van Bitz over the years. I genuinely look forward to continuing our journey together, whether through aftersales support or exciting new installations.

If you would like to contact us then please do so by either sending me a private message, email me or call me on the details below.

Here’s to new beginnings.
Here’s to WattGuardz.

Ash
Email: info@wattguardz.com
Tel: 07403 678977
View attachment 1051789

Well done Ash
I am so happy for you after our conversation we had whilst you were fixing my solar controller, I hope everything goes very well and smoothly with your new transition, and that everything will work out for you and members of your new team and not forgetting your family.
Tony

 

[Jim]

I can also confirm the Nick has also given notice to quit. As for the team in the workshop, AJ left the company on the 24th April and after speaking with Dave recently, I have learnt that he will also be handing in his notice too.

Exciting times then Ash.

So Dave, AJ and Nick are leaving VB, and following you! Well, that's a coup!

Thanks for offering the Funster discounts, and offering warranty is a nice touch I will definitely be dropping you a line.

So WattGuardz, not so sure about that name, but maybe it will grow on me.

Where are you going to be located?

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[Silverman]

Exciting times then Ash.

So Dave, AJ and Nick are leaving VB, and following you! Well, that's a coup!

Thanks for offering the Funster discounts, and offering warranty is a nice touch I will definitely be dropping you a line.

So WattGuardz, not so sure about that name, but maybe it will grow on me.

Where are you going to be located?

He'll still be in Taunton

 

[DuxDeluxe]

Is Eddie now on a bath chair in some state run carehome in darkest Somerseti watching the RWC 2003 on a loop, smoking his Woodbines , sipping some cheap sherry from the local co-op. Dressed in an old cardigan, with his breakfast encrusted on the front, those pompom slippers and some faded Corduroy pants held up with some bailing twine and some broken braces. Teeff in and old jam jar, soaking in brine, on the table next to him a 1968 copy of a Freeman's catalogue, some pages welded together.

Ah bliss, getting old..

Rock on Eddie Van Bitz

Are you sure that is not you?

 

[PaulW2]

Ash
Email: info@wattguardz.com
Tel: 07403 678977
View attachment 1051789

Well done Ash. Exciting times.

 

[AshWattGuardz]

Hi Jim,

Yes they all approached me and asked to join. I obviously obliged as I would have been crazy not to.

You don’t like the name? I thought it was catchy.

WattGuardz your motorhome?
WattGuardz your camper?

We do

I have acquired a newly renovated unit the other side of Taunton. Access is amazing and my workshop has 3685 square foot of workable space. With this additional room available to us, it will be even easier to offer new services and grow as a company.
I am also currently in talks with a local campsite that is only 1/2 miles down the road. So it is looking great on that front too.

I will keep everyone updated as things progress and I am honestly so excited for this new venture.

Ash

 

[Gellyneck]

Where are you going to be located?

He'll still be in Taunton

Latest inside info is he's moving lock, stock and (two smoking) barrel(s) to Scotland 'cause the folk up here are much more friendly, there's a better class of rugby and the weather is bl**dy wonderful (as seen by various recent threads).

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[Beltie]

Best of luck Ash, I'm sure it will be a great success. Weird name though!

 

[DuxDeluxe]

So how do I start...

As many of you know, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of this amazing industry since I was just 13 years old. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people, customers who have become more than just clients, but true friends. That connection means a great deal to me, which is why I wanted to take a moment to share my story with you… and introduce something new and exciting.

From a young age, working alongside my parents, Eddie and Lyn, at Van Bitz was always my dream. After all, I’d grown up surrounded by adventure—touring Europe, meeting wonderful people, and yes, the money didn’t hurt either!

I’ve spent 27 fantastic years in this industry, 24 of those proudly at Van Bitz. Between 2009 and 2012, I took a break to broaden my experience, working as a sales advisor at Chelston Motorhomes. That role gave me valuable insight into the various types of motorhomes, their unique layouts, and the wide range of factory-fitted equipment available, helping me offer even better service when I returned.

At Van Bitz, especially under my parents’ ownership, we prided ourselves on being innovators, delivering state-of-the-art security and electrical enhancements and staying one step ahead of the curve. When the company was sold in December 2022, I remained fully committed. I had ambitious ideas to grow the business, enhance our offerings, and most importantly, listen to you, our valued customers.

Unfortunately, despite initial support, those ideas were ultimately shelved and I felt the core values of Van Bitz, the values I believe in, were no longer being upheld.

After many sleepless nights and heartfelt discussions with family and friends, I made the incredibly difficult decision to part ways with Van Bitz. My final working day will be Friday, 23rd May 2025. I can also confirm the Nick has also given notice to quit. As for the team in the workshop, AJ left the company on the 24th April and after speaking with Dave recently, I have learnt that he will also be handing in his notice too.

But with every ending comes a new beginning…

I’m proud to introduce my new company – WattGuardz.

Launching on Monday, 2nd June 2025, WattGuardz is my way of bringing a fresh vision to life. A company rooted in customer service, trust, and the same commitment to quality that many of you have come to know over the years.

WattGuardz will focus on providing the highest standards in motorhome security and enhanced electrical systems, while also expanding into exciting new areas based on what you, our community, actually want and need.

And don’t worry, if you currently have a Van Bitz system, we haven’t forgotten about you. As a thank-you and continued commitment, we are exclusively offering all Motorhome Fun members the chance to register with WattGuardz at no cost. We’ll create a file for you and, wherever possible, honour your existing warranties. This offer will remain open until 30th September 2025. Further more we will also be offering a launch promotion of 15% discount across a wide range of our products. This will run until the 30th June and then we will provide a 10% discount on our products.

Behind the scenes, we’re working with a brilliant team to bring this dream to life. A new, bespoke website is on its way, and our initial product range will include the trusted systems you know and love (but with a twist), customised and installed with the care and attention you deserve. As we grow, so too will the services we offer.

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my family at Van Bitz over the years. I genuinely look forward to continuing our journey together, whether through aftersales support or exciting new installations.

If you would like to contact us then please do so by either sending me a private message, email me or call me on the details below.

Here’s to new beginnings.
Here’s to WattGuardz.

Ash
Email: info@wattguardz.com
Tel: 07403 678977
View attachment 1051789

Emailed you Ash….. All the very best for the future

 

[JACQ]

I’ve emailed you, Ash. All the best for your new venture!

 

[Gellyneck]

Best of luck Ash, I'm sure it will be a great success. Weird name though!

Nothing wrong with the name, Ash!

 

[gilbaro]

All the best Ash, see you on Thursday

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[HKF]

We had planned on getting a system fitted to our MH but, due to circumstances and commitments, we haven't been able to yet. Then with the uncertainty surrounding the future of Van Bitz, we put things on hold. Now, I'm totally glad we did!! AshVanBitz , when things settle down for us, we'll definitely be making the journey from France to you for a system to be fitted. Massive good luck with your new venture!!

 

[Fulham Dave]

Congrats Ash - so pleased you and the team will all be continuing your fine work.

Good luck for the future & o doubt we will see you and the team again sometime soon!

 

[tkk]

So how do I start...

As many of you know, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of this amazing industry since I was just 13 years old. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people, customers who have become more than just clients, but true friends. That connection means a great deal to me, which is why I wanted to take a moment to share my story with you… and introduce something new and exciting.

From a young age, working alongside my parents, Eddie and Lyn, at Van Bitz was always my dream. After all, I’d grown up surrounded by adventure—touring Europe, meeting wonderful people, and yes, the money didn’t hurt either!

I’ve spent 27 fantastic years in this industry, 24 of those proudly at Van Bitz. Between 2009 and 2012, I took a break to broaden my experience, working as a sales advisor at Chelston Motorhomes. That role gave me valuable insight into the various types of motorhomes, their unique layouts, and the wide range of factory-fitted equipment available, helping me offer even better service when I returned.

At Van Bitz, especially under my parents’ ownership, we prided ourselves on being innovators, delivering state-of-the-art security and electrical enhancements and staying one step ahead of the curve. When the company was sold in December 2022, I remained fully committed. I had ambitious ideas to grow the business, enhance our offerings, and most importantly, listen to you, our valued customers.

Unfortunately, despite initial support, those ideas were ultimately shelved and I felt the core values of Van Bitz, the values I believe in, were no longer being upheld.

After many sleepless nights and heartfelt discussions with family and friends, I made the incredibly difficult decision to part ways with Van Bitz. My final working day will be Friday, 23rd May 2025. I can also confirm the Nick has also given notice to quit. As for the team in the workshop, AJ left the company on the 24th April and after speaking with Dave recently, I have learnt that he will also be handing in his notice too.

But with every ending comes a new beginning…

I’m proud to introduce my new company – WattGuardz.

Launching on Monday, 2nd June 2025, WattGuardz is my way of bringing a fresh vision to life. A company rooted in customer service, trust, and the same commitment to quality that many of you have come to know over the years.

WattGuardz will focus on providing the highest standards in motorhome security and enhanced electrical systems, while also expanding into exciting new areas based on what you, our community, actually want and need.

And don’t worry, if you currently have a Van Bitz system, we haven’t forgotten about you. As a thank-you and continued commitment, we are exclusively offering all Motorhome Fun members the chance to register with WattGuardz at no cost. We’ll create a file for you and, wherever possible, honour your existing warranties. This offer will remain open until 30th September 2025. Further more we will also be offering a launch promotion of 15% discount across a wide range of our products. This will run until the 30th June and then we will provide a 10% discount on our products.

Behind the scenes, we’re working with a brilliant team to bring this dream to life. A new, bespoke website is on its way, and our initial product range will include the trusted systems you know and love (but with a twist), customised and installed with the care and attention you deserve. As we grow, so too will the services we offer.

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me and my family at Van Bitz over the years. I genuinely look forward to continuing our journey together, whether through aftersales support or exciting new installations.

If you would like to contact us then please do so by either sending me a private message, email me or call me on the details below.

Here’s to new beginnings.
Here’s to WattGuardz.

Ash
Email: info@wattguardz.com
Tel: 07403 678977
View attachment 1051789

Wishing you best of luck. Ive always got prompt support from you during your VB time.

 

[ShiftZZ]

AshWattGuardz do I still qualify for my usual 37.68% discount, free beer and an Indian takeaway?

 

[AshWattGuardz]

AshWattGuardz do I still qualify for my usual 37.68% discount, free beer and an Indian takeaway?

The beer and Indian sounds good. Not sure about the 37.68% though

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