CFP’s mission (see video below) is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. The Foundation is dedicated to providing for the families of servicemembers from all branches of the armed forces who have died as a result of combat casualties, military training accidents, service-related illnesses, suicide and other duty-related deaths as ruled by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
To support this worthy cause, PPL pledged to donate one hundred dollars from every listing and RV purchased by PPL Motor Homes from Oct. 10, through Nov. 7.
Juan Tejeda
“We’re very proud to partner with Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation and their noble cause to provide college scholarships to military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty.” said PPL CEO Juan Tejeda. “On behalf of our entire organization, we are immensely grateful for all the men and women who have served our great country in the United States armed forces. One of our core values is having a strong culture of care for our customers, employees, communities, and industry. As a business, we are proud to be a force of good and strive to make a positive difference for all; especially to honor those servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”
“While our nation is not actively at war, the echoes of previous conflicts continue for children of fallen servicemembers. CFP is facing a surge in need to support Gold Star children affected by the severe losses in Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Lilian Long, Development Officer of the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, Army Veteran, and Military spouse. “These students are now of college age and rely on our help to bridge the gap between government assistance and the actual cost of their education. We are grateful for PPL’s support in assuring we can continue our vision to fund each and every military child who lost a parent in the line of duty and honor the legacy of their loved one.”
“PPL’s support truly comes at a crucial time for our foundation as we face a surge in demand stemming from those terrible years in Iraq and Afghanistan,” continued Long. “As we continue to face high student demand over the next few years, we are filled with hope and gratitude for their support of our scholars. It brings huge comfort to these military families, who have made the ultimate sacrifice, to know that their loved ones are not forgotten. Honoring their fallen servicemember’s legacy in this way is incredibly impactful, and we are deeply grateful for their contribution to our mission,”
For more information about the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, or to donate, click here.
About PPL Motor Homes
PPL Motor Homes is the largest RV consignment dealer in America. Since 1972, PPL has helped more than 50,000 individuals sell their RVs. With a proven track record for success, the company sells over 94% of the RVs listed for sale by RV owners. PPL Motor Homes team members are dedicated to the company’s mission of helping RV owners exit, enter, and enjoy the RV lifestyle. PPL Motor Homes is based in Houston, Texas, with additional locations in Cleburne, Texas, New Braunfels, Texas and Summerfield, Florida. For more information, visit pplmotorhomes.com.
SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – In response to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina, KZ Recreational Vehicles, a leading manufacturer of RVs, has stepped up to provide crucial support to a volunteer team aiding in disaster relief efforts, according to a company release.
On Friday, Sept. 27, Hurricane Helene brought historic rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and tornadoes to the state, causing significant damage, particularly in the western Appalachian region of North Carolina. In the aftermath, many families were left without homes, and local infrastructure was severely damaged.
Blue River Covenant Brethren Church (CBC) from Columbia City, Ind., organized a volunteer trip to Watauga County, North Carolina, to support Samaritan’s Purse International Relief, a nondenominational Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to people in crisis around the world, in assisting homeowners affected by the storm. However, the team was struggling with funding and temporary housing shortages, which threatened to derail their efforts.
KZ Recreational Vehicles and its division Venture RV were able to step in and offer a solution. Dave Boggs, General Manager of Venture RV, and Paul Gingerich, KZ Quality Control Manager, who attends Blue River Covenant Brethern Church, discussed the challenges faced by the volunteer team and brainstormed ways to help. Boggs proposed offering KZ’s camping units, which are typically used for personal use by KZ employees and their families at a local campground during the summer months.
The team encountered numerous challenges throughout the process,” said Paul Gingerich. “However, each obstacle was overcome, thanks to generous donations, including vehicles to tow the campers and financial contributions for food and travel. The KOA campground, originally set to close on October 30th, extended its closing date to November 2nd to accommodate the volunteers. The way everything came together so quickly was nothing short of a miracle.”
With the approval of KZ’s leadership team, including Marlene Snyder, VP of Sales and Marketing, and Lynn Stutzman, Director of Operations, the company loaned two travel trailers to support the volunteer team’s efforts in North Carolina. Gingerich was tasked with overseeing communications and logistics with the volunteer group, and once all donations were secured, a team of 10 volunteers, including KZ employee David Miller, Plant 6, made their way to North Carolina in late October. The team spent three days helping with cleanup efforts, including mudding out homes and clearing trees.
“We are deeply grateful to KZ RV and Venture RV for their generous support in providing the loaner travel trailers,” said Dave Kreider, Trip Coordinator for Blue River CBC. “Thanks to their kindness, we were able to stay on site and continue our important work with Samaritan’s Purse, assisting those impacted by Hurricane Helene.”
The donation of the travel trailers underscores KZ RV’s strong commitment to community support and disaster relief. The volunteer team’s efforts have had a significant and lasting impact on those affected by Hurricane Helene. The loaner trailers were crucial in providing the necessary resources for volunteers to carry out their work efficiently and effectively.
To support ongoing relief efforts in North Carolina, donations and volunteers are still needed. Those who wish to contribute can do so through the following organizations:
NAPPANEE, Ind. — inTech officials are thrilled to announce that their Flyer, Luna, Sol, and Auctamodels have been awarded the prestigious Quality Circle Award by the RV Dealers Association (RVDA).
This recognition, based on dealer responses to RVDA’s 30th Annual Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey, is a testament to the strength of the company’s partnerships and commitment to quality.
The DSI survey measures dealer perspectives on key aspects of their relationships with manufacturers, assessing policies, product satisfaction, and procedures. The insights gained through this survey are invaluable in fostering a productive, cooperative environment that helps us continuously elevate our product and service standards.
“We are incredibly honored by this recognition and deeply grateful to our dealer network for their valued partnership and support,” said Keith Fishburn, Head of inTech Sales. “At inTech, we recognize that our dealers are integral to our success, and we are committed to nurturing these relationships and consistently delivering on quality and innovation.”
The Quality Circle Awards was presented at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo Nov. 12 in Las Vegas, during the Spotlight on Excellence Luncheon.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A new survey from the RV Industry Association (RVIA) reveals that millions of Americans are planning to travel by RV this holiday season. The survey found that 21 million Americans plan to go RVing between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, with 9 million hitting the road for Thanksgiving and 7 million for Christmas.
“The holidays are a special time to connect with loved ones, and RVing provides the perfect opportunity to gather with family and friends while enjoying the beauty of nature, or having your own accommodations while visiting family,” said RVIA Spokesperson Monika Geraci. “Whether you’re seeking snowy adventures, headed south for warmer weather, or traveling to see friends and family, an RV allows you to create lasting memories in a comfortable and convenient setting.”
Key Findings from the Survey
RVing is a year-round activity: 35% of leisure travelers plan to take an RV trip in the next year.
Top winter RV trip types: Visiting family (63%) and road trips (57%).
Top reasons for winter RV trips: Snowbirding (57%) and seeking winter/snow-based experiences (45%).
RV purchase consideration: About 25% of leisure travelers say they would like to purchase an RV in the coming months.
Health Benefits of Outdoor Recreation During the Winter Months
Spending time outdoors during the winter has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including:
Boosting your immune system: Exposure to sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
Improving your mood: Sunlight and fresh air can help to improve your mood and reduce stress levels.
Increasing your physical activity: Winter activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing can help you stay active and burn calories.
Enhancing your sleep quality: Spending time outdoors can help to regulate your sleep-wake cycle and improve your sleep quality.
“This holiday season, millions of Americans are embracing the joy of winter RV travel and reaping the rewards of outdoor recreation,” continued Geraci. “From strengthening family bonds to boosting your well-being, RVing offers a unique blend of adventure and rejuvenation.”
*Commissioned by the RV Industry Association and conducted by Cairn Consulting, 1,200 surveys were completed by a statistically balanced cross section of U.S. leisure travelers. The survey results have an associated margin of error of +/- 2.74 percentage points. Leisure travelers are defined as any U.S. residents who has taken some type of leisure trip in the past 12 months.
MOUNT PLEASANT, PA. – “Aliner would like to announce a new chapter in our journey as we welcome an incredible team of more than a dozen new dealers all across the United States,” notes Aliner CMO Jana Randall in a press release.
“As we continue our commitment to expanding access to high-quality campers across America in 2024, we are grateful to have these dedicated partners on board, sharing our passion for the great outdoors and bringing the adventure of Aliner to their communities,” Randall stated.
“In 2025, we feel it holds even more excitement for us as we look forward to the partnership ahead with our expanding network. Together, we’re poised to inspire and engage new customers, introducing them to the freedom and possibilities that Aliner represents,” she noted, adding, “In line with our drive for innovation, we are especially proud to unveil our all-new interiors for the 2025 lineup – thoughtfully designed to captivate audiences and enhance the camping experience with a fresh aesthetic and practical amenities.”
Allan Reeping, Director of Sales, added, “It’s the perfect time of year to show gratitude, and we want to extend our sincere thanks to these new dealers for embracing the Aliner vision. We are excited to see what the future holds as we grow and explore together.”
Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA), kicked off the annual KOA Convention on Tuesday (Nov. 19) by highlighting the positives in a year marked by slower traffic at campgrounds nationwide.
She noted that KOA’s NPS score, a data set used to measure guest satisfaction, had moved up one point in 2024 to 71. That is up from 70 in 2023 and significantly up from 53 in 2011 when the company started measuring NPS.
Total system registrations over a trailing 12-month period are still up, marking a record for the company at over 5.6 million, while year-end registration numbers are on par with last year’s record numbers.
When it comes to registration revenue, O’Rourke explained that 45% of parks were ahead in 2024, while 11% were flat and 44% were behind.
Toby O’Rourke
On the overall revenue front, O’Rourke noted the complex balance that exists between occupancy numbers and revenue.
“We can see what a unique year it has been,” she said. “Twenty-seven percent of parks are ahead of last year in terms of occupancy, 8% were flat and 65% were below in camper nights. On stage last year I talked about a goal to increase camper nights by 2%, but overall, we saw decreasing nights again this year.
“Half of our parks are above occupancy from 2019 and half of our parks are below,” O’Rourke added. “When you see these numbers, it underscores how impressive revenue growth has been. During this same cycle, we’ve increased revenue by 134%. Parks have found ways to increase their ADR despite decreasing occupancy. Ninety-two percent of campgrounds have increased their overall revenue during this pandemic cycle. The fact that KOA continues to grow despite lower occupancies speaks volumes about our value. Campers are looking for experiences and we are here to deliver.”
Of course, everyone is wondering when the decline in occupancy will reverse itself and O’Rourke said it isn’t an easy question to answer.
“We’re not alone in these occupancy declines,” she explained. “All of our peers across the industry are seeing the same levels of decreases, if not more. There are a lot of macro-level factors at play.”
O’Rourke highlighted that international travel is up 33% from where it was in 2019 with one in five people saying they plan to travel abroad in the next 12 months. Inbound international travel on the flipside has not rebounded and is still lagging behind 2019 levels.
Cruising is also up 6% over 2019 with 10 million new cruisers in the past few years and a younger demographic.
KOA’s President and CEO Toby O’Rourke gives a speech during the convention.
“I think all of these factors have had an impact, but I also think it’s a short-term headwind,” she said. “This business is going to return. We haven’t lost the camper. They’re simply taking in other forms of travel that were more heavily impacted during the pandemic.
“Cruising and international travel is expensive and that was taken in by those who could afford it, and that is a proportion of our camper base,” O’Rourke added. “But another trend that I’d like to talk about is this disparity we’re seeing in travel behavior between lower-income households and upper-income households.”
She highlighted credit card debt is at its highest level in 12 years and personal savings are dropping, with lower-income households experiencing the most pain from higher inflation.
“That impacts a significant portion of our camper base with 36% of our campers having an average annual household income of $50,000 or below,” O’Rourke noted. “Fifty-nine percent of our campers have a household income of below $75,000 and one-third of campers feel that their financial situation has worsened this year.”
All of this, she told attendees, impacts discretionary spending and how people travel.
“Families are making tough decisions about how and where to spend their money, and for many, that means looking at their travel budgets,” O’Rourke explained. “We see KOA campers opting for shorter stays, camping closer to home, looking for discounts, looking for promotions or seeking out lower-cost camping options. Half of our campers said that inflation has caused them to wait longer to book, and they’re not buying new RVs.”
She also addressed the fact that park owners are also feeling a financial pinch in their wallets.
“Your expenses are increasing, and your margins are being compressed,” O’Rourke said.
Time to Rebound
O’Rourke explained that it is time for park owners to realize that the playing field has changed and that it is no longer business as usual.
“When the playing field has changed, we need to change the game,” she noted. “We’ve been in this cycle long enough. There’s a lot of talk, we’re always looking backward, we’re always comparing. It’s time to move on, look forward and move this cycle back up and start a new business cycle, set a new baseline, and grow from there, and to do that, we need to change the game.”
O’Rourke told attendees that it isn’t just campgrounds that parks are competing against. It is every option in a particular market that people can choose to spend their time and money with.
“Camping has always been a budget-friendly alternative to travel, and we need to lean into that strength,” she explained. “We need to get existing campers to camp more. One more night, one more stay. We need to bring new campers in, and appeal to those who want to take a vacation but aren’t sure they can afford to take a cruise or go to a theme park this year.
“COVID brought so many people to camping, so they already have context and experience about being outdoors and they might be doing something else right now, but it is not hard to remind them about the fun they had and invite them back,” O’Rourke added.
Hundreds of park owners/operators are in San Antonio for this year’s convention.
What is the Game Plan?
O’Rourke said that the KOA system was going to lean into value to attract cost-conscious campers.
“We need to send a clear and authentic message that KOA is an affordable, high-quality experience that’s worth every dollar,” she noted. “Our amenities and our services need to reflect that value, build loyalty and differentiate in a crowded marketplace. When dollars are tight, campers, like all consumers, are selective in what they choose to do. They will look for brands that deliver a sense of trust, reliability and value.”
O’Rourke said the company is also going to leverage its loyalty program, KOA Rewards.
“KOA rewards offer substantial value not just in building revenue, but in securing long-term relationships,” she highlighted. “When faced with options, a loyalty program will provide competitive differentiation.”
For KOA, campers who are a part of the KOA Rewards program account for 59% of all camper nights.
O’Rourke also highlighted how parks can leverage recent travel trends to give people a reason to come to a particular park, drive more revenue through better revenue management and take advantage of the KOA marketing team, which has seen tremendous success in making sure KOA parks are ranked higher and are easier for campers to find.
Convention Highlights
Besides O’Rourke, other KOA officials including Diane Eichler, senior vice president of marketing; Andy Metroka, chief information officer; Aaron Williamson, vice president of franchise services; Kim Wootteon, vice president of commercial strategy for KOA; and Mark Lemoine, senior vice president of franchise operations; all spoke on different projects KOA is focused on to improve the system and help franchisees continue to grow.
Ryan Estis gave a keynote speech during lunch on Tuesday that focused on human-centered leadership and how park owners can pour into their staff and campers to create a better hospitality mindset and park.
Workshops were also held throughout the day on Tuesday, along with an event supporting the KOA Owners Association (KOA) in the evening.
Today (Nov. 20), KOA will be handing out its new ICON Awards, which will celebrate the parks at the very top of the system as it relates to customer service and performance. During lunch, KOA will be handing out its Presidents and Founders Awards, Rising Star Award, Park of the Year Award and Partnership Awards.
Workshops will also be held throughout the day, along with the opening of the expo this evening. The expo is expected to have more than 145 booths and will include a full camp store set up this year to help KOA train franchisees on how to better operate their stores.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Campers Inn RV is proud to announce the acquisition of Right Stop RV, a respected family dealership in Lebanon Junction, Ky., founded by Bob and Sherry Tobbe, according to a press release.
Known for their unwavering commitment to treating customers and employees with fairness and respect, Bob and Sherry built a business that thrived on trust and strong relationships. With this acquisition, Campers Inn RV not only continues its strategic growth, now operating in 18 states, but also honors and builds upon the legacy of family dealerships like Right Stop RV. Their values align seamlessly with Campers Inn’s mission to provide outstanding service and create an environment where employees and customers feel valued.
This acquisition further underscores Campers Inn RV’s dedication to becoming a truly nationwide organization while preserving the principles that have made independent dealerships so vital to the RV industry. By integrating Right Stop RV into our network, we are reaffirming our commitment to expanding thoughtfully and responsibly, with a clear focus on dealerships that embody a customer-first approach and a strong internal culture. For RV manufacturers and dealers alike, this acquisition demonstrates our readiness to partner with like-minded businesses to deliver growth, innovation, and an unmatched RV experience for customers across the nation.
“Right Stop RV has been more than a dealership – it’s been our life’s dream, our ‘farm,’ and our family.” Says Robert & Sherry Tobbe. “Selling to Jeff Hirsch and Campers Inn RV, a family-owned business with heart, feels like passing on a legacy, knowing it’s in good hands. Our journey, from campfire memories across the country to making customers part of our RV family, now closes with pride and gratitude, leaving us ready to savor our memories and step into retirement.”
Campers Inn RV recognizes the importance of preserving the legacy of family-owned dealerships within the RV industry. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to honoring the traditions and values that make these businesses so impactful in their communities. For family dealerships considering their next steps or succession planning, we welcome conversations about how Campers Inn RV can help carry forward their vision. Feel free to reach out to Jeff Hirsch at [email protected] for a confidential discussion about potential opportunities.
Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., Campers Inn RV was established in 1966 and has grown to become the nation’s largest family-operated dealership group with 36 locations throughout the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions. In 2010 and consecutively since 2014, Campers Inn RV has been selected as one of RVBusiness Magazine’s Top50 Dealers in North America and was named a Top 5 Blue Ribbon Award winner in 2023 marking the fifth time Campers Inn RV has earned this prestigious honor. For more information about Campers Inn RV, visit www.campersinn.com or find Campers Inn RV on Facebook
Indeed, the tributes acknowledging Liegl’s accomplishments at Forest River and his deep-felt impact on the North American RV sector have been pouring in from colleagues and competitors.
“He’s the George Washington on the Mount Rushmore of the RV industry,” said Jarrod McGhee, founder and CEO of Fun Town RV, which hasover 20 stores in Texas and five other states.
Liegl’s iconic status in the RV industry cannot be overstated. He founded Forest River in 1996, which he continued to lead even after selling the company to Berkshire Hathaway in 2005. Under his leadership, Forest River grew to be one of the largest RV manufacturers in North America, producing motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheels, toy haulers, camping trailers and destination trailers.
Headquartered in Elkhart, Ind., Forest River employs over 14,000 people in 100-plus facilities in more than a half dozen states.
“When I founded Forest River, I had a vision of a company dedicated to helping people experience the joy of the outdoors by building better recreational vehicles and assuring that every family that desires quality recreation would find a product that serves their needs, interests, budget and lifestyle,” Liegl stated in a 2016 letter to employees for the company’s 20th Anniversary.
Born April 30, 1944, in Petoskey, Mich., Liegl is survived by his wife Sharon, daughter Lisa L. Rees – who is the co-founder and general manager of East to West RV, a division of Forest River – son-in-law Logan Rees, grandchildren Adrienne (6) and Ryan (3) and brother-in-law Gary Chamberlin.
Liegl, who earned an undergraduate degree in 1968 from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Mich., and an MBA in 1971 from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich., was also active in a number of philanthropic and civic-minded efforts, including the Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center near downtown Elkhart.
Flanked by two past RVDA Chairmen of the Board, Jeff Hirsch of Campers Inn (left) and Mike Pearo of Hilltop Camper & RV, Forest River’s Pete Liegl (center) received the association’s Titan Award at the RVBusiness RV Power Breakfast in 2021.
Awards & Accolades
In 2022, Liegl received the Distinguished Service Award from the RV IndustryAssociation – RVIA’s highest honor – which is presented to an individual within the RV industry who has set himself or herself apart by outstanding service.
Craig Kirby
RVIA President Craig Kirby said the association was “deeply saddened” to learn of Liegl’s passing.
“Pete was an industry titan in every sense of the word, and for nearly three decades, he’s built Forest River into one of the world’s most well-known, respected, and successful RV manufacturers,” Kirby said. “His entrepreneurial leadership and innovative ideas were major drivers of the RV industry’s growth, and his vision for Forest River helped introduce RV travel and camping to millions of families and outdoor enthusiasts.
“Pete was a steadfast advocate for our association and always generously encouraged many talented people within Forest River to be active on the Association’s Board and on many committees,” Kirby continued. “Pete was also a generous benefactor and patron for many deserving causes nationally as well as in the greater Elkhart area. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his loving family, as well as to everyone at Forest River. He will be deeply missed, but his impact and legacy of leadership both professionally and personally will forever endure.”
Phil Ingrassia
In 2021, Liegl received the Titan Award from the national RV Dealers Association – RVDA’s highest honor – at the RVBusiness Power Breakfast in Elkhart, Ind., for his “pioneering efforts to make RV travel a preferred leisure activity for millions of Americans.”
“Pete Liegl’s innovative product ideas and business savvy had a major impact on the RV industry’s growth this century,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “He helped make the dream of RV travel attainable for people from all walks of life.”
Liegl was elected to the RV/MH Hall of Fame in 2009. His Hall of Fame plaque reads:
“Pete is a long-time industry executive and promoter having developed several companies. Starting in 1996, he built his current company through development and acquisition into the nation’s largest manufacturer of towable RVs and Elkhart County’s largest employer, providing jobs for over 6,500 workers. He has, for many years, been an imaginative entrepreneur and active cheerleader for the RV industry. He is most publicly recognized for building his company into the industry’s largest privately owned manufacturer and selling it to Warren Buffett, bringing the prestige of Berkshire Hathaway into the RV industry.”
Friends & Colleagues
THOR Industries President Bob Martin at the 2024 Elkhart RV Open House. (RVBusiness file photo)
In a sterling example of how things often go within the North American RV industry, THOR Industries Inc. President & CEO Bob Martin first met Pete Liegl back in the day when Liegl was at Cobra Van America and Martin was in his earliest days at Coachmen Industries Inc. before the two evolved into friends and generally amicable competitors.
While their companies eventually represented the top two OEM’s in terms of volume, in fact, Martin said he and Liegl generally worked well together on some vital projects including the timing of the Elkhart RV Open House and some philanthropic initiatives.
Liegl, for instance, joined Martin in shoring up financial support for a new football field at Elkhart High School as well as an Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center that has contributed to the vitality of Elkhart’s downtown. Both, in turn, have played key roles in supporting a joint foundation that provides financial assistance to employees and others faced with major problems like house fires, family crises and medical setbacks.
“Yes,” Martin told RVB, “I think I met Pete back in 1993 in my first week on the job at Coachmen and just had interactions with him throughout my entire career, and I’ve always admired him and held him in the highest regard. And he had always been just a great person to me and a great competitor. We would have our differences at times, but more often than not, we found our way to see eye to eye most of the time.
“Pete was a fierce competitor,” added Martin, who, as well as Liegl, was inducted into the RV/MH Hall of Fame. “He has always run just a great company. And I mean that — the fact that he built up Forest River from the ashes of Cobra and ultimately (in 2005) sold it to Berkshire and did very well for himself. And he just had such a loyal following. He had people that had worked for him for many, many years, and they were dedicated to Pete and very loyal.
“And for us, as competitors we’d still find ways to do the right things in business,” he said, pointing out that September’s industry-wide Open House (Forest River still calls it the “Expo”) was indeed originally Liegl’s idea coming out of the Recession. “And if there were issues, we’d sit down and we’d talk through them and we’d find solutions. Bottom line, there was a side of Pete that I saw that was just a softer side and very generous.”
Pete Liegl was on hand to support Don Gunden at his RV/MH Hall of Fame induction in 2023. (RVBusiness file photo)
What Don Gunden, a Forest River veteran who served as general manager of the company’s Rockwood, Flagstaff and Palomino lines for years before his February retirement, will remember most about Pete is that “he afforded all of us opportunities we probably would never have gotten any place else. He was a damn good leader and he’s going to be sorely missed and people don’t know how much yet.”
What made him a good leader?
“He was a good leader because, A, he had good ideas. And B, if he disagreed with you or you disagreed with him, he always heard you out and you always heard him out. And whoever had the better idea won.”
Long story short, again, said Gunden, Liegl will be earnestly missed. “Yes, you know, Pete really had a big heart. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for you if you needed it. Bottom line, we lost a boss, but we also lost a friend.”
This “Self Made Man” statue was a gift from Liegl that McGhee has proudly on display in his lobby.
Calling him “a dear friend, a visionary leader, and a mentor to so many” including himself,Fun Town RV‘s McGhee,said Liegl was “more than just a pioneer in our industry; he was our North Star, guiding the RV world with wisdom, determination and a sense of purpose that set the standard for decades.”
McGhee credited Liegl’s “unwavering faith” and “invaluable advice” were instrumental in the dealership’s success. “His support was not just professional but deeply personal – a testament to the kind of man he was,” he said.
“Pete was not only an incredible businessman but also a person who deeply cared for the people and companies he worked with,” McGhee continued. “True to his brilliance, he placed the right leaders in the right roles to ensure Forest River will continue to grow and thrive, a legacy that speaks to his forward-thinking vision.”
McGhee said his relationship with the “Big Dog” – his nickname for Liegl – grew into a solid friendship.
“Pete took to (McGhee’s son) Chandler when he was real young and we started to come up to Open House and me and Chandler would stay at the house with him and Sharon,” McGhee said. “We got pretty close to him over the years. Poor Sharon had to go out to dinner with me and Pete all the time and listen to us talk forever and ever. I felt so bad for her over the years.”
Jason Lippert
Jason Lippert, president and CEOofLippert Components Inc., Elkhart, Ind., said he’s learned a lot from Liegl, especially how he always seemed to have a different angle when approaching a challenge.
“And I learned a lot just by listening to the questions that he’d ask; that was a big thing for me,” Lippert said. “And he really taught me how a business can be run efficiently. I don’t know of a business that ran more efficiently than his. I watched a lot of the things he did and a lot of ways he ran his business, and tried to mimic as much as we could.”
He also noted that Liegl had a lot of “Pete-isms.”
“His best one that he used with me a lot is, ‘Pigs get fat and hogs get slaughtered.’ He used that all the time. It was always a warning: You can make a reasonable profit, but just don’t go over the edge,” Lippert chuckled.
When asked to put into perspective his impact on the North American RV industry, Lippert said Liegl’s “aggressive” stance on price is responsible for tens of thousands of units each year.
“He created a lot of product that customers wanted and got aggressive on price often to make sure that anything that they tried in the market sold,” Lippert explained. “They just drove a lot of sales because of his aggressiveness. And, I don’t know, we might be sitting on a 250,000-unit market right now versus 350 because of how aggressive he was. Whether it was innovation, whether it was new product, whether it was affordability – he hit it from all angles.”
Jeff Hirsch
Jeff Hirsch of Campers Inn RV, the Jacksonville, Fla.-based dealer group with 37 locations across the U.S., said Liegl was a “positive disruptor who challenged the industry on many fronts” and a “risk-taker” for, among other things, founding Forest River with not much more than a “very clear vision for what he wanted for the company” which was to be both “value-oriented and innovative.”
“Obviously, that took a lot of guts to go ahead and go after it,” Hirsch told RVBusiness, adding that some of his most cherished moments with Liegl are when the two of them would meet for personal, meaningful conversations.
“We talked about life in general, and how he reflected on his life and his vision for Forest River going forward,” Hirsch said. “One of the things he said that he wanted to accomplish was that he wanted to see Forest River be more focused on quality, continue to be innovative in floorplans, to be more focused on the customer, and to make sure that the customer truly had a good experience. And he started to shape his company with a commitment to parts, warranty and service – and he did that.”
Hirsch also singled out Liegl’s “passion” for Forest River.
“I don’t think that anybody in the industry today that works for Forest River, I should say, had the love that he had for his company, even after he sold it to Warren Buffett,” he said. “He wanted to make sure that his legacy was defined by his accomplishments with Forest River – and I think he achieved that because the Forest River that we know today is different than the one we knew yesterday. I think that’s one of his greatest accomplishments: transitioning the company to be more focused on the end-user, our customer.”
Michael Happe
Calling him a “visionary leader and innovator whose contributions profoundly shaped our industry,” Winnebago Industries President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Happe said he and the rest of the company were “saddened to hear of the passing of Liegl.
“His passion and larger-than-life presence will be greatly missed. Pete’s determination throughout his career inspired countless individuals and left an indelible mark on everyone who had the opportunity to work with or compete against him,” Happe said. “On behalf of Winnebago Industries, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his loving wife, daughter and son-in-law, grandchildren, and all those who cherished him. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Forest River team during this difficult time.
“Pete’s legacy will continue to remind us all of the transformative power of bold leadership and dedication to making the outdoors a place for fun and connection,” he added.
Ron Hoover
“I text-visited with Lisa (Liegl’s daughter Lisa Rees) this morning and I just told her that her dad was my favorite human being on the planet,” said Rockport, Texas-based dealer Ron Hoover, CEO of Ron Hoover RV& Marine Centers with 18 locations throughout the Lone Star State. “I just loved talking to him – an unbelievable person, just brilliant.”
Hoover, who worked with Liegl for a bunch of years as a key Forest River dealer, considered him “an icon in our industry that nobody will ever replace.”
“Yeah, you know a lot of people were afraid of Pete, but Pete and I had a great relationship,” said Hoover. “Every time I went to Elkhart, I’d go visit with him and we’d just talk for hours. And he was a visionary. He was always thinking about down the road and planning for the future. That’s what we’d talk about, not what was going on today; but what was going to happen in three or four years from now. He’d listen and ask good questions, and I’m going to miss him.”
Jeff Rodino
On behalf of Patrick Industries, President Jeff Rodino expressed his company’s condolences.
“We are mourning the loss of Pete Liegl, a visionary leader who profoundly shaped the RV industry in ways that will resonate for generations. We are deeply grateful for everything he has done to pave the way for our success and inspire countless others to make their mark. Mr. Liegl’s influence will remain a cornerstone of our industry and community, today and forever,” Rodino said.
Forest River, Inc. Mourns the Passing of Founder Pete Liegl, Celebrating His Visionary Leadership and Philanthropy
ELKHART, Ind. – It is with deep sadness that Forest River, Inc. announces the passing of its founder, Peter J. Liegl. Pete not only was a visionary leader who transformed the RV industry, but one of Indiana’s proudest citizens and most generous philanthropists. He is survived by his wife Sharon, daughter Lisa L. Rees, son-in-law Logan Rees, and grandchildren Adrienne (6) and Ryan (3) and brother-in-law Gary Chamberlin.
Pete is best known as the founder of Forest River, Inc., and the man who in 2005 sold Forest River to famed investor Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. But his legendary role in building the RV industry into a multibillion-dollar enterprise began from humble beginnings. Sales and management positions brought him valuable experience in production, operations, and customer service. He worked his way to the role of president at Midas Motorhomes and then on to Shasta, a Coachmen-owned company, before deciding to venture out on his own when he co-founded Cobra Industries. Cobra Industries went public and Pete was “fired.” This led him to build his first RV by hand in a barn. Driven to succeed, Liegl brought his first units to Louisville and sold them outside under a lamp post – which was the beginning of “Where the forest meets the river.”
In 1996, Liegl established Forest River, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, with the vision of bringing the power of nature to as many Americans as possible. His goal was to create a company that could meet a wide range of consumer needs, and he did just that. Forest River grew rapidly under his leadership, expanding its product range to include not only RVs but also buses, cargo trailers, and marine products. He believed in providing the best product at the best price. His strategic acquisitions and commitment to innovation helped Forest River to become one of the largest RV manufacturers in North America.
His management philosophy emphasized empowering employees, fostering a culture of accountability, and always focusing on the needs of the consumer. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” he said recently. “But we’re very serious about what we do.”
Pete Liegl
In 2024, despite announcing a succession plan for the company, Pete Liegl remained at the helm of what he called “the quiet company,” working every day – including Saturdays and Sundays – while presiding over a slate of internal innovations and investments that will provide the foundation for growth and excellence for years to come.
Pete, to anyone that knew him for more than a minute, found meaning and inspiration from his namesake, the Apostle Peter. Peter’s story inspired transformation, and Pete’s journey inspired many, while highlighting themes of redemption, leadership, and unwavering commitment to one’s beliefs.
Pete was very proud of his roots in Elkhart, and privately made generous philanthropic contributions, supporting causes in education, healthcare, conservation and local communities. In the end, it is his determined strength of character, booming laugh and a twinkle in the eye that will leave a lasting impact on those who knew him best.
About Forest River, Inc.
Founded in 1996 by Pete Liegl, Forest River, Inc. has evolved into North America’s largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles, cargo trailers, pontoon boats, and commercial vehicles including buses, vans, and trucks. Its portfolio includes market share leaders in every category, and it is the country’s leading manufacturer of buses and vans for both the private and public sectors. Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Forest River employs 14,000+ employees in 100+ facilities in more than a half dozen states. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, Forest River is proud to be a Berkshire Hathaway company.
REDMOND, Ore. – Expion360 Inc. (Nasdaq: XPON), an industry leader in lithium-ion battery power storage solutions, announced significant growth within its OEM and distribution network. In addition to strengthening the company’s relationships with existing OEM partners, Expion360 has recently added several new OEMs and one new distributor, following its attendance at the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House in September and resulting from its ongoing sales efforts to expand the company’s customer base across the United States.
The Elkhart event showcased Expion360’s batteries installed in demonstration vehicles, highlighting their performance and versatility, according to a release, which resonated strongly with attendees. This momentum, combined with the company’s strategic outreach efforts nationwide, has significantly bolstered its footprint in the RV markets, the release continued.
In addition to the three recently announced new OEM customers, Scout Campers, Alaskan Campers, LLC d/b/a Alaskan Campers, and K-Z Recreational Vehicles, Expion360 has secured several new OEM customers and one new distributor.
“We expect these new relationships to generate incremental revenue of approximately $5.0 million for fiscal year 2025,” the release stated. “These efforts underscore our commitment to expanding our reach and delivering quality power solutions across a wider range of industries and sales channels. The anticipated revenue growth is expected to increase gross profits by an estimated $1.4 million for fiscal year 2025. In addition, we expect to finish fiscal year 2024 on a strong note, following increased sales during the fourth quarter of 2024 as a result of these new relationships.”
“We are very pleased to see such strong momentum with our new customers who have expressed interest across our product line, including our next generation GC2, Group 27, and new Edge batteries,” said Brian Schaffner, chief executive officer of Expion360. “These new relationships expand our customer base as our recently introduced batteries and enhanced features continue to gain traction in the marketplace. We believe this growth is a testament to the quality of our products and features and the trust our customers place in us. We look forward to supporting these new relationships and continuing to advance our shared vision of advanced, reliable power solutions, while seeking to drive meaningful incremental revenue for our business.
“These new customers reflect our dedication to advancing energy solutions and meeting the increasing demand for high-quality lithium battery technology. This expanded OEM network strengthens our presence in the recreational vehicle (RV), off-grid, and surveillance industries, showcasing our versatility in providing reliable energy solutions tailored to diverse applications. Through the addition of a new distributor, we are aiming to broaden access to our dependable and innovative power solutions. With these developments, we believe we are well-positioned to further enhance our market presence and continue delivering advanced energy solutions that meet the unique needs of customers,” Schaffner concluded.
About Expion360
Expion360 is an industry leader in premium lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and accessories for recreational vehicles and marine applications, with residential and industrial applications under development. On December 19, 2023, the Company announced its entrance into the home energy storage market with the introduction of two premium LiFePO4 battery storage systems that enable residential and small business customers to create their own stable micro-energy grid and lessen the impact of increasing power fluctuations and outages.
The company’s lithium-ion batteries feature half the weight of standard lead-acid batteries while delivering three times the power and ten times the number of charging cycles. Expion360 batteries also feature better construction and reliability compared to other lithium-ion batteries on the market due to their superior design and quality materials. Specially reinforced, fiberglass-infused, premium ABS and solid mechanical connections help provide top performance and safety. With Expion360 batteries, adventurers can enjoy the most beautiful and remote places on Earth even longer.
The company is headquartered in Redmond, Oregon. Expion360 lithium-ion batteries are available today through more than 300 dealers, wholesalers, private-label customers, and OEMs across the country.
