The federation began in 1979 when representatives of the national associations in Belgium, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom decided to create a platform for the exchange of expertise and best practice.
Since then, more countries have joined and the total membership now stands at 22 - 18 member states of the European Union, plus Croatia, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland. Interest has also been shown from Estonia, Lithuania and Montenegro with a Montenegrin observer attending the General Assembly in March 2007.
As the Common Market evolved into the European Community and then into the European Union, EFCO&HPA's work focussed increasingly on lobbying the European institutions.
The present day work of EFCO&HPA still consists primarily of lobbying for the industry at the European institutions but also includes work with consumer associations and representation on industry related European standardization bodies. It also includes assistance to park owners through the production of documents such as the practical guide to addressing external risks which is available on www.efcohpa.eu.
The industry provides nearly 25% of all tourist bednights in member countries across Europe and is composed primarily of family-run, small and medium sized entreprises. The industry also attracts some large investors who make a significant contribution to the economy through taxation and employment.
