SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – KZ Recreational Vehicles, a community-minded organization, announced its recent donation to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Goshen, Ind. The contribution was made possible through the sale of custom “Support Our Veterans” T-shirts, a fundraiser designed to honor and support our nation’s veterans, according to a release.
Proceeds from the T-shirt sales were donated to the DAV organization in Goshen as a way for KZ Recreational Vehicles to show its gratitude and commitment to veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. The initiative also reflects KZ’s ongoing dedication to giving back to the community and supporting causes that make a positive impact.
Ryan Juday
“We wanted to find a meaningful way to give back to veterans in our community,” said Ryan Juday, president of KZ RV. “Through this fundraiser, we were able to engage our employees, raise awareness, and ultimately provide some financial support to the Disabled American Veterans, an organization that does so much for those who have served.”
Disabled American Veterans is a nonprofit organization that provides vital support to disabled veterans, including access to essential services, benefits assistance, and community engagement opportunities. KZ’s donation aims to assist DAV in its mission and ensure that veterans in the Goshen, Indiana area receive the recognition and support they deserve.
KZ is grateful to everyone who participated in this fundraiser and looks forward to continuing its efforts to support local heroes in the future.
For more information about KZ Recreational Vehicles and its award-winning product lines, visit www.kz-rv.com.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) will host a webinar on Wednesday, November 20, at 11:00 a.m. ET on new economic data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). This briefing will cover essential economic trends, regional impacts, and the sector’s resilience and growth despite economic challenges. With the outdoor economy contributing significantly to the national and local economies, the data underscores the need for continued federal investment in outdoor infrastructure and policies that support recreation access for all Americans. Speakers will include ORR members, policymakers, and BEA economists.
Of Note: ORR and its members will also discuss the continued push for the U.S. Senate to pass the bipartisan EXPLORE Act before the end of the year. It was passed by unanimous consent in the House of Representatives in April 2024.
Editors: This event is a unique opportunity to gain insights into the economic strength of the outdoor recreation industry. The new data release will provide the latest on the industry’s impact, underscoring its importance to diverse communities across the U.S.
Members of the media can register for the November 20th webinar here and directly after, attend a media only Q/A with BEA staff and ORR members by dialing 303-416-5839 (no pin).
Who: Industry experts from the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable and representatives from the Bureau of Economic Analysis will participate in a discussion panel.
Amy Allison, Director, North Carolina Outdoor Economy Office
Connor Franks, Economist, BEA
Glenn Hughes, President, American Sportfishing Association
Jason Rano, VP of Government Affairs, RV Industry Association
Scott Schloegel, SVP, Motorcycle Industry Council
Stanislaw Rzeznik, Economist, BEA
When: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern/9:00 AM Mountain
Where: Register for the Zoomhere for the 11:00 AM Eastern webinar and then directly after for a media only Q/A on line 303-416-5839 at approximately 12:00 PM Eastern.
NAPPANEE, Ind. and STATESVILLE, N.C. – LEGACY MOTOR CLUB today announced that Newmar Corporation, a premium manufacturer of luxury recreational vehicles and fully-owned subsidiary of Winnebago industries (NYSE: WGO) has been named the official luxury motor coach provider of the CLUB in a new one-year partnership.
For more than 50 years, Newmar has manufactured recreational vehicles that are the pinnacle of luxury, comfort, performance and design, giving their customers an unrivaled luxury outdoor experience. Now, LEGACY M.C. teammates and guests will have access to an elevated race-day experience with a new, custom-built King Aire coach designed specifically for the hospitality and corporate needs of the team. This 45-foot RV will feature a full custom graphics package in the CLUB’s black, gold, and white color pallet and will travel to 20-plus events in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, providing a space for entertainment and trackside hosting.
“Like LEGACY M.C., Newmar has a rich tradition of performance and a deep commitment to excellence,” said Newmar President Casey Tubman. “We are thrilled to partner with the team, building on our shared values while celebrating the past and future legacies of our companies. We cannot thank Cal, Jimmie and team enough for the warm welcome into the LEGACY family and look forward to an amazing 2025.”
The new Newmar coach will provide LEGACY M.C. with a guest experience solution that will set it apart from typical at-race entertainment of the past. Designed to fit LEGACY M.C.’s specifications and need to double as an entertainment space and office meeting area, Newmar once again proves itself to be the most customizable production coach on the market today, able to take on any challenge to create the ultimate home away from home.
“Having been involved in motorsport for close to 50 years I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work within the Formula One, IndyCar, off-road, sports car, and NASCAR spaces,” said Cal Wells III, chief executive officer of LEGACY M.C. “In each discipline our operations were critically affected by having a connected space that provides a quality environment for everything from engineering processes to hospitality. LEGACY M.C.’s new partnership with Newmar will provide an extraordinary platform to conduct all aspects of our motorsports business. We are so excited to have them aboard.”
Additionally, LEGACY M.C. will utilize this fully customized corporate coach for its at-track engineering meeting place and commercial operations activities and meetings, allowing the CLUB members to stay connected to the core product both on and off the track.
“Our team takes great pride in every build, from our superior quality to the wood craftsmanship we are known for,” said Tubman. “We know what it takes to deliver a luxurious home away from home and are eager to bring that experience to the track this season.”
LEGACY M.C. team will take ownership of their 45-foot 2025 Newmar King Aire in early February, and it will debut for partners and guests of the CLUB at the 2025 DAYTONA 500.
Winnebago Industries, Inc. is a leading North American manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle products under the Winnebago, Grand Design, Chris-Craft, Newmar and Barletta brands, which are used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company builds high-quality motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheel products, outboard and sterndrive powerboats, pontoons, and commercial community outreach vehicles. Committed to advancing sustainable innovation and leveraging vertical integration in key component areas, Winnebago Industries has multiple facilities in Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, and Florida. The Company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and traded under the symbol WGO. For access to Winnebago Industries’ investor relations materials visit www.winnebagoind.com/investors.
LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Johnson. LEGACY M.C. also competes in the Extreme E Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as CLUB Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.
Jeff Sims, right, was a familiar face in Washington D.C. as an advocate for the campground industry.
OHI announces the retirement of Jeff Sims, its revered Director of State Relations and Program Advocacy, who will officially retire in mid-January 2025. With a career spanning over five decades, Sims has left an indelible mark on the Outdoor Hospitality Industry, tirelessly advocating for policies that support RV parks and campgrounds nationwide.
Jeff Sims is a household name in the industry, having dedicated his life to advancing and advocating for outdoor hospitality. His journey began in his youth watching on when his father Dean cofounded the Missouri Campground Owners Association, and later his co-ownership and operation of Compton Ridge Campgrounds, Lodge & Convention Center in Branson, Missouri, from 1967 to 2007. His leadership extended to a national level, serving as chairman of the National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC) from 1997 to 1999 and later on the ARVC Foundation board.
Since stepping into his role as Director of State Relations and Program Advocacy in January 2011, Sims has consistently championed issues critical to the industry. His efforts include the careful review of thousands of legislative bills annually, bolstering OHI’s voice in Washington, D.C., and fostering strong relationships with policymakers. Sims played a pivotal role in the annual Advocacy Day, helping transform it from a single-day event to a robust, week-long series of meetings on Capitol Hill. His tireless and, often thankless, work has helped shape policies that affect the livelihoods of outdoor hospitality businesses across the U.S for decades, with an influence that will last even longer.
Jeff Sims, left.
“As advocates for the entire Outdoor Hospitality Industry, staying abreast of policy and legal changes at all levels is integral to OHI’s mission of propelling the industry forward,” says Sims. “It’s been a privilege to work alongside dedicated professionals and contribute to an industry I care about deeply.”
In recognition of his legacy, OHI is proud to announce the creation of the Jeff Sims Advocacy in Action Award, which will be awarded annually at OHI’s annual Outdoor Hospitality Conference and Expo (OHCE) starting next year. The award will honor an industry member who demonstrates the same dedication and commitment to advocacy that Jeff has exemplified throughout his career.
“Jeff’s impact on the Outdoor Hospitality Industry is beyond measure. He’s not only been a pillar of knowledge and integrity but also a friend and mentor to so many of us.” says Paul Bambei, President and CEO of OHI. “Jeff’s dedication runs deep. His work, his wisdom, and his passion have left an indelible mark on our industry and on all who’ve had the privilege to know him. We’re grateful for every moment he’s given, and while we’ll miss him greatly, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Sims has handpicked his successor, Julia Canady King, who joined OHI as Government Affairs Manager this week. King brings with her extensive knowledge of federal and state relations from her tenure as the Federal Affairs Coordinator for the Florida Governor’s Office. With a passion for camping and a commitment to advocacy, King will continue Sims’ legacy of advancing OHI’s legislative agenda. She will work closely with Sims in the coming months to carry forward the high standards he has set for this role.
Jeff is supported by his loving wife, Susie, and family, as he enters this new chapter of life. His unwavering dedication and strategic insight for those in the Outdoor Hospitality Industry leave an unmatched legacy that will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
Kampgrounds of America Inc.(KOA) hosted a special group of workshops at the San Antonio/Alamo KOA in San Antonio, Texas, before the kickoff of its annual conference on Monday (Nov. 18).
Over 100 park owners/operators took part in the event, which included a chance for owners to walk through the park while also learning about different facets of park ownership.
Workshops in which attendees took part included:
Camp Store: Drive Profit Through Product and Price
Safety Safari: A Real-Time Campground Risk Assessment Workshop
Site Grading for Success
Elevate the Experience: Planning Recreation for Campgrounds
Resurrecting the Unrentable: Cabin Repair & Refurbishment Techniques
First Impressions Matter: Visiting a Campground Like a Guest
Throughout some of the sessions, attendees were able to visually see how the different topics impact a park and also offer feedback on what they might do differently.
Kim Wootteon, vice president of commercial strategy for KOA, spoke about the importance of dissecting data when deciding what items to put in a camp store and how that can ensure park owners are not holding on to store products for too long.
She also spoke about the difference between margins and markdowns, and how demographics are also key when deciding what to stock in a camp store.
As part of the session, attendees were then able to walk through the KOA’s camp store and note what they liked and what they had questions/suggestions on.
Barb Stachurski, co-owner of the Virginia Beach KOA, highlighted the importance of creating a recreation program during her session. She noted that camping revolves around creating memories and that a recreation program can help create those memories, whether it is through crafts, nature events, community events…etc.
Stachurski highlighted the use of community partnerships and how these partnerships can help alleviate some of the burden of doing it yourself.
“Maybe it is inviting some food trucks to come and provide food instead of doing it yourself,” she said. “Campers will appreciate the effort.”
Stachurski explained that you don’t have to start big, park owners can begin with simple stuff and then see where it goes from there.
“It is just important to remember that everything we do, we want to do it well,” she noted. “It all adds up to a great guest experience.”
First Timers Event & Welcome Reception
Later in the day, KOA held its First Timers event, which allows those attending the conference for the first time to hook up with attendees who have been coming to the KOA conference for a while. The event was marked by a large attendance, highlighting the growth of the KOA brand.
After that event, hundreds of conference attendees gathered at Rita’s on the Riverwalk for an opening night celebration that featured great food, a mariachi band and a chance for networking.
Today, KOA is officially kicking off its conference with opening speeches by KOA officials, including President and CEO Toby O’Rourke. There will also be several educational sessions held later in the morning.
Ryan Estis is set to give this year’s keynote speech during lunch. He will be speaking on human-centered leadership and how to drive growth.
More workshops will take part in the afternoon, followed by a KOA Owner’s Association Event at The Grotto.
FOREST CITY, Iowa – Winnebago, the flagship brand of outdoor lifestyle product manufacturer Winnebago Industries (NYSE: WGO), announced in a press release a number of awards received this fall for its continued focus on listening to the voice of its customers.
Kunal Mehta, Head of Marketing, Strategy and Business Development, reflected on the organization’s winning products, “Winnebago is dedicated to crafting innovative RVs built with our customer needs in mind. Our passion for the outdoors drives us to create products that help customers forge lasting, positive memories in nature. We deeply appreciate the industry’s recognition of our teams’ hard work in delivering the quality products our customers deserve.”
2024 Awards:
Quality Circle Award, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) Winnebago Class B & C. RVDA surveyed dealers on their level of satisfaction on four core issues: reliability/quality, parts, warranty and sales. Winnebago received the award during the RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Paris, Las Vegas, November 11-15.
“I am proud to see our commitment to innovation and attentive listening to our customers and dealers recognized by industry partners.” – Niles Whitehouse, Winnebago’s Vice President of Sales and Service.
Top Debut, RVBusiness – Winnebago View & Navion 24R Floorplan with Winnebago Connect
Best New Model, RV Pro – Winnebago® Revel Sport 44N
“The Revel, View / Navion and Winnebago Connect show we are absolutely dedicated to transforming our product offerings to closely align with what our customers are asking for, and we will continue to pursue this goal with passion.” – Kunal Mehta, head of mketing, strategy and business development.
MIDDLEBURY, Ind – The Jayco Family of Companies presented the second annual Blue Excellence Awards to the company’s Top 10 suppliers, with 2 companies being singled out as the top Indiana (Eastern Production) and top Idaho (Western Production) suppliers. The awards were presented based on specific criteria, one of which being on-time delivery. In addition to the top awards, 10 suppliers received honorable mention. Three supplier sales representatives were also recognized for exemplary service that consistently goes above and beyond.
“Our inaugural 2023 Blue Excellence program was a huge success, and we’re pleased with the positive effects that it has had on our valued suppliers, and ultimately the Jayco Family of Companies. The Jayco Blue Excellence awards were created as a way to celebrate the hard work and high level of service provided by our partners and their teams,” stated Jeryl Miller, Vice President of Purchasing. “This is a way we can celebrate the elite suppliers and sales representatives that have excelled in the prior year and we look forward to continuing to raise the bar year after year.”
Blue Excellence Award Top Supplier – Indiana
Furrion
Blue Excellence Award Top Supplier – Idaho
LCI #64 Frames (ID)
Additional Top 10 Suppliers
Postle Aluminum Co.
S&H Metal
Dexter Axle
Dave Carter & Associates
Great Lakes Lamination
Synergy Design
Brianza USA
Dometic
Riverpark Inc.
Blue Excellence Award Top Supplier Sales Representatives
Motorized – Mike Nolan, PBS
Indiana Towables – Jeff Douglas, Lasalle Bristol
Idaho Towables – Tara Smith, LCI
Honorable Mention Suppliers
Ranger Distribution
Lasalle Bristol
Great Lakes Forest Products
Collins & Company
Global Link Distribution
Arvron, Inc.
Universal Forest Products
Wesco
Firefly Integrations, LLC
Dicor Corporation
The Top 10 Suppliers and Top Sales Representatives were presented with a custom designed award featuring a painted blue bird in-flight, mounted on a wooden base. Honorable Mention Suppliers received commemorative plaques. The awards will continue to be presented on an annual basis for the prior model year.
Mary Pouliot Elected RV Industry Association Chair Of The Board
The incoming RV Industry Association (RVIA) Board of Directors elected Mary Pouliot, Thetford’s Executive Vice President, as 2025 Chair of the Board during the group’s organizational meeting on Nov. 12. Pouliot most recently served as RVIA Board of Directors Vice Chair and as Chair of the RV Technical Institute (RVTI).
“Mary’s dedication to the RV industry and her proven leadership skills make her the ideal person to guide the RV Industry Association into the future. We are thrilled to have her as our new Chair,” said RVIA President & CEO Craig Kirby, “We also want to thank Kevin McArt for his incredible leadership over the past two years as Chair of the Board.”
Executive Committee officers were also elected to their posts by the incoming Board of Directors, including Vice Chair Ryan Elias of Leisure Travel Vans/Triple E RV and Treasurer Brett Randall of Aliner. Jeff Rodino of Patrick Industries was newly elected to the Executive Committee in the role of Secretary.
Current Chair Kevin McArt will continue to serve on the Executive Committee as Immediate Past Chair. RVIA President Craig Kirby also serves on the Executive Committee.
The one-year term for RVIA Executive Committee officers begins January 1, 2025.
RVDA of Canada Board Elects Jim Gorrie as Chairman of the Board
(L) Kevin Betzold, (R) Jim Gorrie
Jim Gorrie of Classic Trailers in Headingley, Manitoba has been elected as the new Chairman of the Board of the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) of Canada.
In 2023, Jim Gorrie embarked on a new journey in the RV industry, purchasing Classic Trailers in Headingley, Manitoba, alongside his wife, Louise, and their son, Michael. This followed a distinguished 37-year tenure as co-owner and Director of Sales and Marketing at GNR Camping World, a family-owned RV dealership in Winnipeg, Manitoba. GNR Camping World, in operation for 53 years, was sold in 2023. Additionally, Jim owned Recreation World in Thunder Bay, Ontario, for a decade.
Throughout his extensive career, Jim has remained steadfast in his commitment to customer satisfaction, leading his teams by example to ensure every RV purchase and service meets the highest standards.
Raised on a farm in rural Manitoba, Jim left home at 16 to pursue his passion for hockey. After seven intense years of travel and securing five championships, he shifted his focus. In 1986, he was approached by Gil Robert, the founder of GNR Camping World and his soon-to-be father-in-law, to manage a fleet of 50 RV rentals. Jim, together with his brother-in-law, later purchased the dealership, which they successfully operated until its sale in 2023.
A prominent figure in the Canadian RV industry, Jim has been deeply involved in both provincial and national RVDA initiatives. Newly elected as the Board Chair for the RVDA of Canada, Jim has also served as Chair of the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of Manitoba. His active participation with the RVDA of Canada has allowed him to address significant industry concerns, including discussions with Canadian Members of Parliament.
In 2018, Jim was honoured with the prestigious Dealer of the Year award. He has also made his mark as Chair of Go RVing Canada, the RV industry’s marketing arm, serving on its board for seven years before passing the torch to his son, Michael, in 2024.
Jim’s passion for hockey continues, and he still plays weekly. His community involvement includes support for the St. Amant Foundation, Children’s Wish Foundation, and Kiwanis, underscoring his dedication to giving back.
Jim and Louise have been camping at Lake of the Woods since 1989, where they have a seasonal trailer. They enjoy traveling, golfing, and spending quality time with their son Michael and his fiancée, Haley.
Jim joined the RVDA of Canada Board in 2010. His passion for shaping the future of the RV industry inspired him to join the National Board, where he has contributed to the association’s continued positive growth.
Other officers for the 2024-2025:
Vice Chair: Ken Dobson, Leisure Time Sales, Quispamsis, NB
Treasurer: Marc Rémillard, Roulottes Rémillard, St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – Sunset Park RV, a leading independent RV manufacturer based in Shipshewana, has announced its asset acquisition of Riverside RV, an innovative, privately owned OEM known for its lightweight and retro-styled travel trailers.
A Sunset Park RV ‘Rush’ toy hauler.
The acquisition brings Riverside’s respected brands under the Sunset Park umbrella, expanding its product lineup and adding significant manufacturing capacity with Riverside’s 155,000 sq. ft. facility.
Terms of the deal were undisclosed.
This strategic acquisition will allow Sunset Park RV to leverage Riverside’s established Retro line, which has captured a unique market segment with its nostalgic style, modern amenities, and unmatched appeal to customers who appreciate a blend of classic design with contemporary features. With the brands from Riverside RV now joining the Sunset Park family, customers can expect continued innovation in product design that honors Riverside’s distinctive approach while enhancing accessibility for a broader audience.
Shared Vision for Innovation and Quality
“We are incredibly excited to welcome the Riverside RV brands to the Sunset Park family,” stated Jason Howard, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Sunset Park RV. This strategic acquisition includes Riverside RV’s iconic retro-styled and lightweight travel trailer brands, which will now become part of Sunset Park RV’s expanding lineup. “Riverside’s Retro has a dedicated following, and we see a fantastic opportunity to build on their unique designs. Our priority is to uphold the quality and charm that customers love, while also bringing new innovations and options to the table.”
A Riverside RV ‘Retro’ travel trailer.
With this acquisition, Sunset Park RV is bringing together two independently owned companies with strong dealer networks, dedicated customer bases, and a shared passion for crafting RVs that suit today’s diverse travel lifestyles. Sunset Park RV’s new plans include optimizing the Retro and Xplorer lines while adding larger floorplans and laminated products to the Sunset brands, aligning perfectly with the market demand for lightweight designs and competitive price points.
Focus on Dealer and Customer Support
In addition to expanding its product line, Sunset Park RV is committed to supporting the dedicated dealers that have been essential to Riverside RV. With extensive plans in place to enhance dealer partnerships, Sunset Park RV will maintain Riverside’s focus on quality customer service and accessibility. Dealers interested in learning more about new opportunities and expanded territory options can contact [email protected] or visit www.sunsettrailers.com.
Dealers, OEMs, suppliers and other industry colleagues rubbed elbows throughout the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo (Photos by Shawn Spence/RVBusiness)
LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Coming into the 2024 RV Dealers Association Convention/Expo there were any number of factors in play that could help steer the industry in either a positive or negative direction.
The country is swirling after the recent election and factors such as interest rates, gas prices and inflation will have to wait a few weeks before being tackled by the new administration.
But largely thanks to some forward thinking by the RVDA show committee and dealers coming to the show looking for a brighter tomorrow, the Convention/Expo left those who attended boiling over with excitement for a 2025 that might not be a boom like the COVID years, but is expected to be a stark improvement over the past two years.
RVDA President Phil Ingrassia said he was pleased with the outcome, which saw about a 3% increase in attendance over last year.
He said the work done to get the pulse of the industry paid off in providing the topics of education that target specific needs of dealers.
Phil Ingrassia
“The expo committee chaired by Chris Andro worked hard to bring some workshops together that were meeting the needs of dealers where they’re at right now,” Ingrassia said. “That was a big positive as far as getting attendance going. The Vendor Traininig +Plus sessions were right on target with some of the business building tools that dealers can use to increase both efficiency and sales.”
And the positive influence of news from outside the convention also contributed to the atmosphere inside the Paris Las Vegas walls.
“The forecast for an improved model next year as interest rates moderate has everybody looking to the future. That was the overall message that – as Chris Andro said – thrive in ’25,” he said.
Ingrassia echoed the sentiments of several dealers who have been through downturns in the past when he said he doesn’t expect the kind of jump the industry experienced from COVID.
But he said the next year is something dealers can plan for, budget for and work toward.
A large part of that target comes from getting personnel properly trained, such as the kinds of sessions that were available at the convention.
“Whether it’s training your people up or using some of the new sales automation tools we saw or recruiting the right people for the right slot and with the suppliers putting the processes in place in fixed operations to add efficiency to the parts ordering all of that is going to move the entire industry forward,” he said. “I think we saw at the Expo how it was quite impressive from the DMS providers to suppliers with components and new battery systems and power systems plus the lenders were there in full force to make sure both wholesale and retail financing needs are met. It’s not like during the downturn when we were coming back from almost a recessionary type period where credit was tough to get. All of the pieces are there for a better year in 2025.”
The Expo floor was a hive of activity.
Ingrassia said members of the committee are working with vendors to help make sure the education sessions are not only relevant, but contain the kinds of information that helps the entire industry get where it wants to go.
“We’re well-positioned to help the industry move forward,” he said.
To get a better idea of whether or not the sessions are meeting those expectations, the Convention/Expo committee will be looking at the evaluations and reactions from attendees as well as exhibitors and partners to help inform some of those decisions for 2025.
In addition, RVDA will look for potential additional partnerships for meetings that were held in conjunction with the Convention/Expo such as the Brown & Brown F&I School that took place Saturday, Sunday and Monday ahead of the full convention.
“We welcome that activity and we’ll continue to try to incorporate that and additional training that’s available into the 2025 event,” Ingrassia said.
A major addition to the agenda for 2024 was the fixed operations day that filled Thursday with sessions directed at service, parts and warranty processing professionals.
Ingrassia said the sessions were well-attended and that plans are in the works for additional fixed ops opportunities for 2025.
“I want to really dive into what people are looking for in the convention-like setting for fixed operations material.,” Ingrassia said. “This time we had some warranty processing information and some repair event cycle time. Some of the vendors were explaining how their systems help repair event cycle time. That whole area – parts, warranty processimg, service management – it’s constantly evolving. There are different ways to do things.
“We’ll be looking real strongly at that,” he continued. “At a time when the industry is down, the fixed operations part of the overall profitability of a dealership is very important beyond just the importance to customer service. I would think that helped us increase our attendance a bit, too. We’ll be continuing to refine that fixed operations training for next year.”
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