Month: November 2024

LAS VEGAS – Lightspeed, a leading provider of RV dealership management software, announced in a press release the winners of its third annual RV Dealership RECT (Repair Event Cycle Time) Excellence Awards. The winners were recognized during the RVDA’s 2024 RV Dealers Convention Spotlight on Excellence Luncheon, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on November 12, 2024.

This year also saw the introduction of a new award category: the RV Innovator of the Year Award, which recognizes an OEM that has significantly advanced innovation through forward-thinking contributions to the RV industry. The purpose of this award is to spotlight companies that are pioneering advancements in RV technology and elevating the customer experience with innovative, cutting-edge solutions. Forest River was selected as the inaugural recipient of the RV Innovator of the Year Award for its work in providing dealers with higher efficiencies through integrations for VIN decoding, unit bulletins/recalls and parts price files.

“Forest River is setting new standards for dealership efficiency,” said Jeremy Johnson, Senior Manager of OEM and Business Development at Lightspeed. “Their progressive approach is helping dealerships streamline operations and deliver faster, more accurate service, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.”

The RECT awards honor the achievements and efforts of five RV dealerships in reducing RECT time and enhancing customer service. These award-winning dealerships, spanning locations across the U.S., represent a diverse range of dealership sizes and RV expertise.

The Lightspeed 2024 RV RECT Excellence Award winners are:

• Vacationland – Illinois
• Tulsa RV – Oklahoma
• Bish’s RV Omaha – Nebraska
• RV Supercenter, Menifee – California
• Outlet Recreation, Clearwater – Minnesota

Recipients were chosen based on their significant year-over-year improvements in reducing RECT time—a critical factor in dealership success within the RV industry. Effective RECT management enables dealerships to identify service inefficiencies, enhance operations, and improve overall customer satisfaction. In addition to boosting customer experiences, better RECT management also helps reduce employee burnout by streamlining workloads and processes.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of all our award winners, whose commitment to excellence sets a benchmark for the entire RV industry,” said Brian Provost, President & CEO of Lightspeed.

Lightspeed continues to offer innovative tools to help RV dealers improve service efficiency, ensuring RV customers get back on the road faster. To learn more about Lightspeed, visit https://www.lightspeeddms.com.

The post Lightspeed Announces RV Excellence & Innovation Winners first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Spearheaded by Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), 312 businesses and organizations across the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy, called on Congress in a letter today to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act before the end of the year. The bipartisan EXPLORE Act, which has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives by unanimous consent in April, enjoys unprecedented support from a broad coalition of industry associations, conservation groups, and outdoor businesses.

The EXPLORE Act is a package of more than a dozen bipartisan policy measures designed to boost rural economies, foster community resilience, and enhance Americans’ quality of life by improving access to public lands and recreational opportunities across the nation, all without additional cost to taxpayers. The legislation will streamline processes crucial to the over 5 million American jobs supported by the outdoor sector and ensure more Americans can enjoy the health and environmental benefits of outdoor recreation.

“This is a pivotal moment for outdoor recreation and for all Americans who rely on access to the outdoors for health, enjoyment, and economic vitality and this letter signed by over 300 businesses and organizations underscores the need to pass the EXPLORE Act as soon as possible,” said Jessica Wahl Turner, President of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “The EXPLORE Act represents decades of hard work across the outdoor industry and support from leaders at all levels of government. Passing this bill will not only meet the surging demand for outdoor access but will also protect our public lands for future generations to enjoy.”

The EXPLORE Act addresses crucial issues impacting both urban and rural communities, from modernizing permitting processes for outfitters and guides to expanding green spaces in underserved areas and enhancing long-range trail systems. With provisions that benefit motorized and non-motorized recreation alike, as well as conservationists, sportsmen and women, and economic advocates, the EXPLORE Act represents the most diverse coalition of outdoor stakeholders ever assembled.

The EXPLORE Act is sponsored by House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) and similar legislation, the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA), is sponsored by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Joe Manchin (I-WV) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY).

This bill will revolutionize the outdoor recreation economy, paving the way for its continued growth while fostering equity and inclusivity in outdoor access. The American outdoor recreation community is eager to see the EXPLORE Act signed into law, benefiting the 145 million Americans currently enjoying outdoor activities—and creating new opportunities for millions more.

The text of the letter to Congress signed by over 310 outdoor recreation businesses and organizations is below and a PDF is available here.

Dear Members of Congress: 

As businesses and organizations across the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy, we strongly urge the U.S. Senate to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act by the end of the year. This historic legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives by unanimous consent in April, and an almost identical version passed twice out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee without opposition. The bill is supported by a large and diverse coalition of recreation organizations covering all outdoor activities, including industry associations, conservation groups, local, state and federal officials, and hundreds of American outdoor businesses that span the outdoor recreation economy. 

The EXPLORE Act would support rural economies, communities, and our American quality of life. It streamlines efficiencies and updates processes that are critical to 5 million American jobs and over half of all Americans who get outdoors. This bipartisan legislation would respond to the increased demand for access to the outdoors while also protecting public lands and waters for future use. 

We are counting on you to pass the EXPLORE Act by the end of this Congressional session, representing a landmark achievement for the 118^th Congress and garnering widespread support from the most diverse coalition ever brought together in the outdoor sector, including motorized and non-motorized recreation, sportsmen and women, conservationists, economic development advocates, and elected leaders at all levels of government. Importantly, the legislation focuses on not just the 145 million Americans currently benefiting from outdoor recreation, but also the millions without access, and ensures equity so everyone can reap the health, social, and environmental benefits that time outside supports. 

This EXPLORE Act would revolutionize outdoor recreation in all corners of the country and pave the way for the recreation economy’s continued growth. It will transform how Americans access and enjoy their public lands and waters by streamlining permitting processes to ease burdens on outfitters and guides, improving access to recreational opportunities, ensuring access to green spaces in underserved communities, developing and completing long-range trails, and investing in rural communities. 

This bill results from the hard work of sponsors Chairman Joe Manchin, Ranking Member John Barrasso, Chairman Bruce Westerman, and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva, and many U.S. Senators and Representatives whose bills are included, communities across the nation, outdoor recreation businesses, and stakeholders over many years.  

The American outdoor recreation business, conservation, and user community is eager for the Senate to pass this bipartisan and bicameral legislation. We have waited decades for some of these provisions to become law and without this important legislation, antiquated policies will remain a risk to our industry and those seeking to experience the outdoors. We strongly urge you to pass this comprehensive piece of legislation that meets the growing demand for outdoor access while also protecting public lands and waters for future generations.  

Thank you for your leadership and for supporting a sustainable and growing outdoor recreation economy for the benefit of all Americans. 

About ORR    

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is the nation’s leading coalition of outdoor recreation associations representing the more than 110,000 outdoor businesses in the recreation economy and the full spectrum of outdoor-related activities. The most recent data from the U.S. Department of Commerce shows that outdoor recreation generated $1.1 trillion and 5 million American jobs in 2022, comprising 2.2% of the nation’s economy and 3.2% of all employees in the country. 

The post Congress Urged to Pass Bipartisan EXPLORE Act this Year first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

RENO, Nev. – Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp. (Nasdaq: DFLI), an industry leader in energy storage and maker of Battle Born Batteries, today announced in a press release entry into a partnership with Keystone Automotive Operations Inc., a leading distributor and marketer of specialty automotive equipment and accessories in North America.

With this joint effort, Dragonfly Energy’s Battle Born Batteries brand of products are available for shipment from any of Keystone Automotive’s eight distribution centers for overnight or two-day delivery to Keystone Automotive’s extensive network of suppliers across 48 states and 9 Canadian provinces via its truck delivery service.

This partnership is expected to increase the availability of Battle Born Batteries by leveraging Keystone Automotive’s robust distribution network. Battle Born Batteries are available to Keystone Automotive customers across multiple industry segments, including the recreational vehicle (RV) industry through NTP-STAG, the marine industry through SeaWide, and the overlanding and off-grid industry through Keystone Automotive.

“Keystone Automotive brings an extensive network and a large, engaged audience to this partnership, which we believe will expand Dragonfly Energy’s market presence,” said Wade Seaburg, chief revenue officer at Dragonfly Energy. “In addition to their strong market presence, Keystone is known for delivering top-tier distribution services. We are proud to align with such a respected partner to provide customers the opportunity for increased accessibility to the batteries and products they rely on.”

“The addition of Dragonfly Energy’s Battle Born Batteries brand to our product offerings complements our commitment to quality, customer service, and providing our customers the best products on the market,” said Andy Morgan, director of marketing at Keystone Automotive Operations. “Dragonfly Energy’s products will allow us to provide our customers with powerful energy solutions that give them the benefit of extended lifespan, increased safety, and an environmentally responsible power solution.”

For more information about Dragonfly Energy, visit DragonflyEnergy.com.To learn more about Keystone Automotive Operations, visit KeystoneAutomotive.com.

The post Battle Born Batteries Now Available at Keystone Automotive first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

AUSTIN, Texas – Rollick, a leading marketing technology provider in the RV industry, announced today at the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo the integration of a new Inventory and Digital Retailing solution into the brand websites of Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites. The solution gives dealers the ability to expose their inventory directly on these brands’ websites while capturing buying intent and consumer financing applications via Rollick’s contextual integration with U.S. Bank.

Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites decision to launch an Inventory and Digital Retailing Solution was informed by Rollick and the brands’ 2023 “Future of Buying” study finding that 75% of respondents said they wanted to explore dealer inventory online before visiting a dealership. The study also revealed that 49% of respondents wanted to explore financing options online and 43% want to go as far as applying for credit approval. Respondents included confirmed Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites prospects and buyers during the prior one-year period.

“Our research was clear that we needed to innovate our brand website to meet the needs of today’s shoppers,” said Lesley Melvin, director of marketing for Heartland RV, Cruiser RV, and DRV Luxury Suites. “Accordingly, we are very excited to partner with Rollick, our existing solution provider for lead management and marketing automation through its Aimbase Marketing product and leverage their relationship with U.S. Bank on this exciting new program to benefit our customers and dealers. Through the partnership, we will create more marketing exposure for our in-stock inventory and drive ready-to-buy pre-approved customers directly to dealerships.”

The new Inventory and Digital Retailing experience is designed to help shoppers estimate monthly payments through an embedded monthly payment calculator powered by U.S. Bank. Serious shoppers can then take the next step by applying for credit online via U.S. Bank and receiving a credit decision prior to arriving at the dealership. This functionality is all embedded into Rollick’s Digital Retailing tool, RollickDR, that is attached to every listing. Customers can also use RollickDR to request a price quote from the dealer and schedule a sales appointment. 

“Integrating U.S. Bank financing into this new solution is another exciting step in our journey to simplify the financing process for RV shoppers,” said John Hyatt, executive vice president, Dealer Services, U.S. Bank. “With just a few steps, consumers can complete an online credit application to finance a new or used RV in a seamless integrated experience. We also keep the dealer in mind throughout the process so they can readily serve approved customers when they arrive at the dealership to complete their purchase.” 

While all three brands launched their Inventory and Digital Retailing programs earlier this fall, Rollick’s Dealer Development team is still reaching out to unenrolled dealers to secure their participation in program. Interested dealers can also proactively contact Rollick via email at [email protected] or visit our booth this week at the 2024 RV Dealers Connection/Expo to get enrolled or have any questions answered.

Jason Nierman, Rollick’s Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer, closed by saying: “This partnership between Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites and Rollick is a unique collaboration in our industry. By integrating U.S. Bank financing solutions directly into the OEM websites through Rollick’s platform, we are making it easier for brand website visitors to start their deal online to save time at the dealership. This enhances the buying process and drives high-quality leads to the brands’ dealers. It is an exciting time to be at the forefront of this industry with such a progressive OEM like Heartland RV and lender like U.S. Bank.”

About Rollick

Rollick is a technology company that provides software to manufacturers and dealerships in the Powersports, RV, Marine, and industrial/outdoor power equipment industries. Utilized by over 130 OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and thousands of dealers, Rollick’s SaaS solutions include enterprise lead management, digital retailing, inventory marketing, post-sale customer experience, and marketing automation. In addition, the company has rapidly built its outdoor recreational vehicle buying marketplace branded for Sam’s Club, US Bank, AAA, major insurance providers, employees at more than 2,000 top U.S. companies, military members, veterans, and first responders. Rollick was founded in 2017, based in Austin, TX, and backed by several venture investment firms, including Silverton Partners and LiveOak Venture Partners. For more information, visit Rollick.io.

The post Rollick Announces Partnership with Heartland, Cruiser & DRV first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Blue Compass RV, the nation’s second largest and fastest-growing RV retailer, today announced a leadership transition at Motor Home Specialist (MHS), the world’s largest motor home dealer. Donny O’Banion, President of MHS, will be stepping down from his day-to-day role running MHS on December 31, 2024.    

Donny O’Banion will continue to serve as a valuable partner of Blue Compass RV, supporting the motorized business, including Foretravel.  Under O’Banion’s leadership, MHS has been the No. 1 motor dealer in the United States 11 years in a row.

“We have been incredibly fortunate for Donny O’Banion’s leadership throughout the past six and a half years since we acquired MHS, he is a true industry legend and great partner. We thank Donny for his leadership and dedication to MHS,” said Jon Ferrando, founder, CEO and president of Blue Compass RV.

“While Donny will be stepping back from his current role as President of MHS, I am pleased that he will continue to contribute his expertise to our motorized business,” added Ferrando.  “The exciting part is that this creates opportunities for new leaders to step up, and our goal is continue the business model and success of MHS as the largest motor home dealer in the world.”

Anthony Sahli, South Region President for Blue Compass RV, will assume responsibility for MHS, including inventory management.  Elisha Bendele has been named MHS Vice President and will be responsible for day-to-day operations of MHS, reporting to Anthony Sahli.

Anthony Sahli runs Blue Compass RV’s largest region spanning Florida, Texas and Oklahoma, and has led highly successful stores including large successful motorized stores for Blue Compass RV like Blue Compass Tampa.  Elisha Bendele has held several key leadership roles at Blue Compass RV, including in marketing, RV show management, and as a GM and Market Leader for Blue Compass, most recently leading the five-store South Carolina market, one of the top markets in the company in 2024. 

“Anthony and Elisha are proven leaders with a deep understanding of the RV business,” added Jon Ferrando. “Their experience and expertise will ensure a seamless transition and continued success for MHS.  I am very proud to continue our track record of promoting from within Blue Compass RV for key leadership positions.”

“I’m incredibly grateful for the 30 plus years I’ve had in the RV industry with the O’Banion family, our team and our OEM partners. Joining forces with Blue Compass in 2018 proved to be one of the best decisions of my career,” said O’Banion. “The partnership we’ve had and the path ahead for MHS continues to be exceptional.  I am grateful to Jon Ferrando and the Blue Compass RV leadership team for all we’ve accomplished together. While I’m excited to step back from the day-to-day to spend more time with my family, I’m also looking forward to supporting Blue Compass in the future as a partner, particularly in support of our OEM relationships.”

Blue Compass RV, formerly RV Retailer, launched their business on June 29, 2018, with the acquisition of Motor Home Specialist, the largest motorhome dealer in the world. Since then, they have been the fastest growing RV company in history with over 100 stores across the country bringing together incredible talent from the RV industry and a vast network of stores in 33 states to serve our customers wherever their travels may take them.

Blue Compass RV

Blue Compass RV is the fastest growing RV retail company in the United States over the past five years, with over 100 locations in 33 states. Its stores across America offer an incredible selection of new and used RVs, including the best lineup of premium new brands. Its mission is to provide an exceptional sales, service, and RV ownership experience for our customers, and with over 1,000 service bays across the country, Blue Compass is able to service its customers wherever their travels may take them. 

Blue Compass RV has been named the No. 1 Airstream dealer in the world for five consecutive years, with a record-setting nine Airstream stores achieving the prestigious “Five Rivet” status. Blue Compass RV’s flagship Motor Home Specialist store has been the leading motorhome dealer in the U.S. for 11 consecutive years.

Led by Ferrando, Blue Compass has experienced exponential growth since its founding in 2018, for which it was named to the 2023 and 2024 Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list, as well as South Florida Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Private Companies list for three consecutive years. Prior to launching Blue Compass RV, Ferrando was instrumental in building America’s largest automotive retailer from start-up to over $20 billion in revenue.

The post Blue Compass Appoints Sahli to Lead Motor Home Specialist first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Kevin Brown delivered what a keynote speech should be Tuesday afternoon at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo at Paris Las Vegas.

Far from the typical cross between standup comedy and motivational talk you might expect, Brown gave a heartfelt, personal message about how true heroes in life set themselves aside to make a difference in the lives of others.

He said a dealer who excels at delivering the kind of memories consumers are looking for with RVs can make that kind of difference.

“Heroes are extraordinary people who choose not to be ordinary,” said the author of “Unleashing Your Hero.” “You have no idea the power of one moment in time. Don’t ever underestimate the power you have to change someone’s life.”

In encouraging dealers to excel on a personal level, Brown told the story of raising his autistic son and the difference one Disney World employee made in the boy’s life at a young age.

The two stayed in touch via email over the years and after the boy graduated from high school and attended college – things doctors told the Browns he would never be able to accomplish – the family made another trip to Orlando, Fla., where “Aunt B” still worked for Disney.

Brown credited his wife and Aunt B with changing his son’s life and encouraged dealers not to take those kinds of connections with their customers for granted.

“We miss most of those moments where we can connect,” he said. “There’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. That’s when your competition steps in and cleans your clock.”

He said instead of just selling a product, dealers should paint a picture of what life will be like for the customer if they choose to do business with them.

On to the Expo

Following the general session, dealers adjourned to the Expo hall to renew acquaintances with vendors in attendance.

Several dealers who spoke to RVBusiness earlier in the day indicated they were eager to talk with lenders to see what prospects looked like for the coming months.

Jeff Olander, senior vice president of business development for Northpoint Commercial Finance, said early business was brisk at the company’s booth.

“We are absolutely looking forward to talking to our customers as well as any other dealers who are looking for financing,” he said.

Rick Derbonne and Greg Nash of Red Oak also found themselves talking with a number of dealers shortly after the Expo doors opened.

“We are one of the few lenders who are a non-bank entity,” Nash said. “We are able to come up with some more creative solutions to dealers’ needs. We answer the phone and figure out how to accommodate and formulate the right solutions.”

Awards Luncheon

Also on Tuesday, RV industry members gathered to celebrate the accomplishment of their peers Tuesday at Paris Las Vegas during the RV Dealers Convention/Expo.

Top dealers, vendors and manufacturers took home honors during the event a day before RVBusiness honors its Top 50 Dealers on Wednesday evening.

Many of the awards reflected RVDA and the RV Industry Association’s efforts to deliver a world-class experience for RV travelers by improving service departments’ performance in relation to repair event cycle time.

In addition, the Dealer Satisfaction Index Quality Circle Awards were handed out.

Those honored during the even were:

• Society of Certified RV Professionals Outstanding Certified Fixed Operations Professionals scholarship winners – William Bouchard (also recognized for being named RVTI RV Technician of the Year), Amelia McBryde, Jerry Ross, Jeffrey Pintado, Stephen Williams (Ken Walters, of Jayco, and Frank Tamburrini, of IDS, provided gifts for scholarship winners.)
• RVIA National Service Award – April Klein-Carroll, Lippert Components
• National Education Service Award – Don Clark, Grand Design
• IDS Top Performers in Repair Event Cycle Time (RECT) – Luxury RVs of Mesa, Ariz.; Hitch RV, Boyertown, Pa.; White Horse RV Center, Williamstown, N.J.; Hilltop Camper & RV, Fridley, Minn.  
• Lightspeed’s Top Performers in (RECT) – Vacationland, Illinois; Tulsa RV, Oklahoma; Bish’s RV, Omaha, Neb.; RV Supercenter, Menifee, Calif.; Outlet Recreation, Clearwater, Minn.
• Lightspeed RV Innovator of the Year – Forest River Inc.
• Motility Trailblazer Award – Bell Camper Sales
• Motility Visionary Awards – Gibs RV Inc., Campers Inn, Parkview RV Center, Optimum RV
• Motility Rising Star Award – Krenek RV Center
• DSI Quality Circle Awards – Airstream Motorhomes & Towables; Alliance RV’s Avenue, Paradigm, Valor and Delta; Brinkley RV Models G and Z; Coachmen Apex and Spirit travel trailers; Coachmen Galleria, Beyond and Nova Class B’s; Cruiser Avenir, Shadow Cruiser, MPG, Stryker and Essence; Dynamax; East to West Aliva and Entrada motorhomes; East to West travel trailers and fifth-wheels; Entegra; Forest River Class C’s; Forest River Flagstaff, Rockwood, Palomino, Columbus, Puma, Wildcat and Cardinal; Grand Design Imagine, Momentum, Reflection, Solitude and Transcend; inTech Flyer, Luna and Sol; Jayco motorhomes and towables; Keystone Cougar, Hideout, Montana, High Country, Springdale and Residence; K-Z Connect, Durango, Sportsmen and Venom; Leisure Travel Vans Triple E; Pleasureway; Shasta travel trailers; Venture SportTrek, SportTrek Touring and Stratus; Winnebago Class B’s and Class C’s.

The post Keynote, Awards, Expo Launch RVDA Convention in Vegas first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE: BRO) has announced the appointment of Paul Gallagher, CPA, as its controller.

In this role, Gallagher will provide strategic guidance and leadership for all financial operations, including SEC and financial reporting, controls and compliance, acquisitions, planning and strategic decision-making. He will also play a key role in supporting continued talent development.

“We are very excited to welcome Paul to the Brown & Brown team,” said Andy Watts, executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer. “He brings a wealth of global experience and the skills as well as the leadership attributes needed to support our continued growth and global expansion. His analytical and collaborative approach to leadership makes him an excellent addition to our incredible team.”

Gallagher joins Brown & Brown from Deloitte, where he has spent more than 25 years serving premier, global clients in the public accounting space. During that time, he led large teams of multifunctional professionals, working in various capacities, including audit, advisory, business development and retention, M&A, quality and risk, technical accounting, and international business. 

About Brown & Brown Inc.

Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE: BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm, delivering risk management solutions to individuals and businesses since 1939. With approximately 16,000 teammates and 500+ locations worldwide, we are committed to providing innovative strategies to help protect what our customers value most. For more information or to find an office near you, please visit bbinsurance.com.

The post Brown & Brown Announces Paul Gallagher as Controller first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an excerpt of an article by Norm Rosen of RV Lifestyle Magazine and RV Dealer News. Click here to read the article in full.

Each year, the RVDA of Canada and Canadian regional RVDAs, in conjunction with RV Lifestyle Magazine and RV Dealer News, invite nominations from across Canada for the Canadian RV Dealer of the Year Award.

For 2024, five distinguished Canadian RV dealers have been nominated for this honor, and we are pleased to introduce them here.

• Richard Tache, Earlton RV Centre, Earlton, ON
  Keith Barrick, Keith’s Trailer Sales, Orton, ON
• Marco & Mylaine Boudreault, E. Boudreault VR, Ancienne-Lorette, QC
• Kyle & Jeff Redmond, Bucars RV Centre, Balzac, AB
• Murray Sullivan, SMP RV, Huston, BC

The award is dedicated to the memory of the late Walt Paseska, founder of Walt’s Trailer Sales in Headingly, Manitoba, in recognition of his many years of commitment and dedication to the RV industry, the RV experience, and the community at large.

Established in 1989 by RV Lifestyle Magazine and RV Dealer News, this award has been presented each year to Canadian RV dealers who share Walt Paseska’s legendary enthusiasm and commitment to the industry; individuals who have been leaders in the RVDA movement either regionally or at a provincial or national level; who have exhibited a long-term dedication to the RV community; and who have made substantial contributions to their communities through charitable or philanthropic activities.

Each of the provincial RVDA organizations are encouraged to present their nominees to the RVDA of Canada selection committee, who evaluate the nominees and select the Canadian Dealer of the Year.

The documentation for the nominees is submitted to the RVDA of Canada selection committee, which consists of five previous Canadian RV Dealer of the Year winners and representatives from the RVDA of Canada and RV Lifestyle Magazine, the founding sponsor of the Award.

This year’s selection committee is comprised of five previous Canadian RV Dealers of the Year: Bruce Marsh, Cape Breton Trailer Sales, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia; Al Robinson, Great Canadian RV, Peterborough, Ontario; Andy Thomson, Can-Am RV Centre, London, Ontario; Roland Goreski, Campkin’s RV Centre, Whitby, Ontario; and Jason Friesen, Voyager RV, Winfield, BC.

The selection committee operates under the supervision of Eleonore Hamm, President, RVDA of Canada, with assistance from Melanie Taylor, Associate Publisher of RV Lifestyle Magazine and RV Dealer News, who will present the Award at the official ceremony at the RVDA of Canada annual general meeting, to be held during the RVDA Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, on November13.

The post ‘Canadian RV Dealer of the Year’ Set to Be Announced Tonight first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

From Venture RV:

While it may appear traditional, with a striking all-white exterior, according to a release, the Sienna is anything but ordinary. Stepping inside, you’re greeted with a calming and modern palette of soft surfside white, subtle grays, and neutral tones, creating an inviting atmosphere for every adventure.

The Sienna Travel Trailer offers a variety of premium exterior features, including:

• Max Size Power Awning, offering expansive outdoor coverage for relaxation and protection.
• Dexter Heavy Duty Axles, ensuring superior stability and durability on the road.
• Heated and Enclosed One-Piece Underbelly, providing added protection against elements

The interior of the Sienna is designed for maximum comfort and functionality. Notable features include:

• The innovative Sit-N-Slide Dinette Sliding Table, which allows effortless width adjustment via a concealed track system. This pioneering design enables users to modify the table’s position with just two fingers, eliminating the need for traditional poles and brackets.
• Reversible Dinette Cushions that offer flexibility and style
• Max Size Closets, providing ample storage space for extended trips.
• A Large Kitchen Pantry designed to accommodate all essentials for a well-stocked kitchen
• Tankless Water Heater, ensuring instant hot water while saving space.

The post OEM Showcase: Venture RV 2025 Sienna 231VRK Travel Trailer first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ATHENS, Texas – In an effort to provide ongoing support for new technicians entering the RV service industry, the RV Technician Association of America (RVTAA) announced the launch of its Mentorship Program, an initiative dedicated to connecting recent National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) graduates with seasoned professionals for guidance and mentorship.

This program, launching in Phase 1, aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, offering insight into essential topics like business growth, inventory management, and setting up a successful mobile RV business.

The Mentorship Program will be held bi-weekly or monthly over Zoom, featuring an experienced certified technicians with at least two years of industry experience. Each session includes a 15-30 minute talk from the guest speaker, covering their background, journey through NRVTA’s RV Technician training, and progression into the industry. The mentorship program has been created to address common challenges and provide valuable insights that might not be covered in traditional RV training classes.

Each mentorship session will include practical advice on:

Starting a Mobile Business: Guidance on whether to start a business immediately after graduation, including tips on setting inventory, managing expenses, and establishing a client base.

Industry Challenges: Mentors will discuss hurdles they faced early in their careers and the strategies that led to their success.

Seasonal Travel Advice: How to navigate travel locations during different seasons, especially for mobile technicians.

Price Setting: Practical tips on determining service rates based on location, market demand, and experience level.

Continuing Education (CEU) Requirements: How to track, complete, and log CEUs needed for ongoing RV technician certification.

“The goal of the Mentorship Program is to offer NRVTA graduates the additional support they need when transitioning into a professional setting,” said Shenika Lyons, NRVIA/RVTAA Director of Membership. “With these sessions, new technicians and members struggling to find their footing in the industry will have access to advice from those who have successfully navigated similar challenges.”

The program’s target audience includes recent NRVTA graduates and new RV technicians needing additional field support. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions in an open Q&A session following the presentation, which may extend the call duration to address specific concerns. This supportive environment encourages sharing stories and solutions to field-specific issues, helping new technicians feel equipped and connected to a network of professionals. This program will continue to evolve with future phases incorporating more specialized topics and advanced training.

For more information on the RVTAA Mentorship Program and NRVTA’s RV technician certification programs, please visit NRVTA.com and RVTAA.org.

The post RVTAA Launches Mentorship Program to Support NRVTA Grads first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.