Month: November 2024

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – The Flying W Award was introduced six years ago to recognize Winnebago dealer locations that delivered the highest service excellence and superior customer satisfaction over the previous 12-month period, according to a release from Winnebago.  

2024 Flying W scores for each dealer location are based primarily on customer feedback collected by the Purchase & Delivery Survey and Warranty Service Survey. These surveys are automatically sent to owners immediately after these important experiences. This year, sales performance and WinnLeads response also factored into the 2024 awards.  

Winning dealer locations will receive an exclusive Flying W Award kit that includes a Flying W banner, certificate, and decal. 

Flying W Dealers will be publicly recognized by the following: 

• Winnebago Website: A Flying W icon aligned with winning dealers in the online Dealer Locator.  
• Flying W Press Release: A release will be sent to RVBusiness, RV News and RV Pro.  
• A customizable press release for dealers to send to their local media. 

“We congratulate all our 2024 Flying W winners!” the release stated.

Flying W Award Winners – Motorized

Great Alaskan Holidays – Anchorage, AK
Bankston Motor Homes – Huntsville, AL
Moix RV – McGaugh Outpost – Springdale, AR
National Indoor RV Centers – Phoenix – Surprise, AZ
Voyager RV Centre – Winfield, BC
Fraserway RV – Abbotsford, BC
Camping World RV Sales – Vacaville – Vacaville, CA
Conejo Wholesale Auto & RV – Thousand Oaks, CA
Sky River RV – Paso Robles, CA
Almaden RV Service & Repairs – San Jose, CA
Camping World RV Sales – Longmont – Longmont, CO
Transwest RV – Frederick – Frederick, CO
Transwest RV – Grand Junction – Grand Junction, CO
Crowley RV Center – Bristol, CT
Lazydays – Seffner, FL
Gerzeny’s R.V. World – Nokomis, FL
North Trail RV Center – Fort Myers, FL
La Mesa RV – Sanford – Sanford, FL
La Mesa RV – Port St. Lucie – Port St. Lucie, FL
Sunshine State RV – Gainesville, FL
Lichtsinn RV – Forest City, IA
Campers Inn of Davenport – Davenport, IA
Winnebago Factory Service Center – Forest City, IA
Winnebago Motor Homes – Rockford – Rockford, IL
Barrington Motor Sales – St. Charles, IL
Ben Davis – Auburn, IN
Gerton Auto Sales – Mt. Vernon, IN
Olathe Ford RV Center – Gardner, KS
Miller’s RV – Baton Rouge, LA
Campers Inn RV of Raynham – Raynham, MA
Beckley’s Camping Center – Thurmont, MD
Seacoast RV’S – Saco, ME
General RV Center – Birch Run – Birch Run, MI
Bullyan RV – Duluth, MN
PleasureLand RV – Ramsey – Ramsey, MN
PleasureLand RV – St. Cloud – St. Cloud, MN
PleasureLand RV – Brainerd – Brainerd, MN
PleasureLand RV – Shakopee – Shakopee, MN
Transwest RV – Belton – Belton, MO
Byerly RV – Eureka, MO
Van City RV – Kalispell, MT
Rex and Sons RV’s – Wilmington, NC
Campers Inn of Mocksville – Mocksville, NC
Colonial Winnebago – Millstone Township, NJ
Lewis RV – Dayton, OH
Shafer’s Truck and RV Sales – Delta, OH
RCD Sales – Sunbury, OH
Camping World RV Sales – Wood Village – Wood Village, OR
Ansley RV – Duncansville, PA
Bob Ledford’s RV & Marine – Greer, SC
PleasureLand RV – Sioux Falls – Sioux Falls, SD
National Indoor RV Centers – Nashville – Lebanon, TN
McClain’s RV SuperStore – Corinth – Corinth, TX
Crestview RV Center – Buda, TX
Stahmann RV – Seguin, TX
McClain’s Kerrville RV – Kerrville, TX
McClain’s Longhorn RV – Sanger, TX
Leisure RV Center – Willis, TX
Motor Sportsland – Salt Lake City, UT
R ‘n’ R RV Center – Liberty Lake, WA
Broadmoor RV SuperStore – Pasco, WA
Advance Camping Sales – Greenfield, WI
Kunes Country RV of Green Bay – Suamico, WI

Flying W Award Winners – Towables

Carefree RV – Edmonton, AB
Aarrkann Trailer & RV Centre – Rocky View County, AB
Arbutus RV & Marine Sales – Sidney, BC
Giant RV – Downey – Downey, CA
Giant RV – Montclair – Montclair, CA
Giant RV – Wildomar – Wildomar, CA
Trailer Source – Longmont – Longmont, CO
Trailer Source – Wheat Ridge – Wheat Ridge, CO
Trailer Source – Colorado Springs – Colorado Springs, CO
Lazydays RV – Seffner, FL
Open Roads Complete RV of Jasper – Jasper, GA
Winnebago Motor Homes – Rockford – Rockford, IL
Gerton Auto Sales – Mount Vernon, IN
Brauns Fun Time Campers – Indianapolis, IN
RV Dynasty – Bunker Hill, IN
Royal RV Center – Middlebury, IN
Miller’s RV – Baton Rouge, LA
Beckley’s Camping Center – Thurmont, MD
Harvey RV’s – Bangor, ME
Seacoast RV’s – Saco, ME
General RV Center – Wixom – Wixom, MI
General RV Center – Birch Run – Birch Run, MI
Bullyan RV – Duluth, MN
St. Louis RV – O’Fallon, MO
McDowell South – Jackson, MO
Miles RV Center – Hendersonville, NC
Campers Inn RV of Raleigh – Selma, NC
Uwharrie RV – Albemarle, NC
Adventure RV – West Fargo, ND
Western Skies RV – Reno, NV
Johnnie Walker RV’s – Las Vegas, NV
Oliver’s Campers – Norwich, NY
RV Wholesalers – Lakeview, OH
Great Escape RV – London, ON
Layzee Acres Sales – Sebright, ON
Smithville RV – Smithville, ON
Fretz RV – Souderton, PA
Bob Ledford’s RV and Marine – Greer, SC
Coastal RV Center – Ravenel, SC
I29 RV Supercenter – Tea, SD
T & S RV and Sport – Bryan, TX
RV Land – Kyle, TX
McClain’s RV SuperStore – Sanger, TX
Motor Sportsland – Salt Lake City, UT
Broadmoor RV SuperStore – Pasco, WA
Kunes Country Freedom RV – Slinger, WI

The post Winnebago Names Flying W Dealer Excellence Awards for 2024 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – The Jayco Family of Companies has announced in a press release that all models of Jayco Towables, Jayco Motorized, and Entegra Coach have been presented with the 2024 Quality Circle Award at the RVDA Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.

These awards illustrate the company’s continued commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The RV Dealers Association (RVDA) bestows this award on RV manufacturers that achieve the highest rating in the Association’s Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) Survey. The DSI measures dealers’ overall satisfaction with manufacturers in Reliability/Quality, Parts, Warranty and Sales.

“Jayco has committed a high level of monetary and physical resources over the past several years to achieve dedicated 100% Pre Delivery Inspection for all brands, along with the continued improvement measures in all areas of Repair Event Cycle Times (RECT). These actions, as well as the company’s continuous improvement and quality efforts have undoubtedly contributed to winning these awards. The rigorous processes and standards in all areas allow for ongoing improvements in manufacturing, customer service, warranty and technical support,” the release stated. 

“Winning the DSI award has been part of our stated yearly goals for several years now,” stated Ken Walters, President & CEO of Jayco, Inc. “Our ongoing commitment to Quality, Dealer Relations and Our People leads us to continuous improvement in all areas of our business. We are thankful to our dealer partners for the confidence they have placed in us and for once again honoring us as part of the Quality Circle Awards”    

RVDA received DSI responses from 585 dealership locations in the U.S. and Canada that included 2,632 brand ratings, an average of 4.5 per dealer. The top-rated manufacturers were recognized and receive their awards on Nov. 12 at the Paris Resort and Casino. These brands/manufacturers received at least 15 dealer responses and scored 4.25 or above on a 5-point scale in overall dealer satisfaction in the association’s survey conducted June through September.

In addition to the DSI awards, two Jayco Family of Company team members were presented the RV Pro 40 Under 40 Award during the RVDA Convention/Expo, Ryan Forgey, Vice President of Engineering and Jeremy Yoder, Director of Electrical Engineering. The presentation took place the evening of Nov. 12 also at the Paris Resort and Casino. The fifth annual awards are presented to 40 of the brightest up-and-coming leaders under 40 years old from across the RV industry. The honorees are chosen based on contributions to their workplace, industry tenure and involvement in their communities. The winners were nominated by their peers for above-and-beyond determination, leadership and success in their respective markets. 

“We have been blessed with a great deal of young talent that we invest a lot of time, energy, and effort to nurture and develop,” said Mr. Walters. “Ryan and Jeremy both exemplify that and play a critical role in our overall success! We couldn’t be prouder of this recognition, and to have them be such a huge part of the team.”  

The post Jayco Brands, Personnel Receive Awards at RVDA Convention first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS – Jeff and Kyle Redmond of Bucars RV Centre in Balzac, Alberta, were jointly presented with the prestigious 2024 Canadian RV Dealer of the Year Award Nov. 12, 2024, at the RVDA of Canada’s Annual Meeting held at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo at Paris Las Vegas, according to a release.

Jeff and Kyle, brothers and business partners at Bucars RV Centre, were both deeply honored and surprised to receive this prestigious award together. The Walter Paseska Memorial Canadian RV Dealer of the Year Award was presented to them by Melanie Taylor of RV Lifestyle and RV Dealer News magazines.

“We are truly honored and humbled to receive the Canadian RV Dealer of the Year Award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, as well as the trust and support of our valued customers and industry partners. Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey—we couldn’t have achieved this without you” stated the Redmond brothers.

Each year, the RVDA of Canada, in conjunction with RV Lifestyle Magazine and Dealer News, invites nominations from across Canada for the Canadian RV Dealer of the Year Award. The award is dedicated to the memory of the late Walt Paseska, founder of Walt’s Trailer Sales in Headingley, Manitoba, in recognition of his many years of commitment and dedication to the RV industry. Since established in 1989 by Camping Canada Magazine, this award has been presented to individuals who share Walt’s enthusiasm and commitment, in recognition of their long-term contribution to the RV lifestyle, and commitment to the community as a whole.

The award is presented to a candidate who has:

• Demonstrated long-term dedication to the RV industry and promotion of the RV lifestyle by the acting dealer principal of a recognized full-service RV dealership
  Shown commitment and participation in the RVDA at the provincial or national level;
• Been recognized by customers and peers as a person with the highest integrity and credibility in both work and personal life, and
• Made a contribution to their community.

Bucars RV Centre, located in Balzac, Alberta, has a long and proud history in the RV industry, dating back to its founding in 1959. Originally based in Calgary, Bucars started as a small dealership specializing in trailers and motorhomes. As the business expanded, it relocated to a larger facility in Balzac, just north of Calgary, allowing for a greater inventory and enhanced service offerings. This move enabled Bucars to serve a wider customer base while maintaining its reputation for offering a full range of RV products and services, including new and used RV sales, parts, and expert servicing.

Over the years, Bucars RV Centre has become synonymous with exceptional customer service and strong community relationships. The Redmond family has been instrumental in its growth, turning Bucars into one of the most respected RV dealerships in the country. Not only is Bill Redmond, father of current owners Jeff and Kyle, a previous recipient of the Canadian Dealer of the Year, but the dealership has also received the RV Business Award as a top 50 dealership in North America 10 times and are incredibly honored to have been awarded the prestigious Top 50 Blue Ribbon designation in 2024, an elite distinction earned by only 5 dealers, underscoring our unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Throughout its history, Bucars RV Centre has been actively engaged in the RV community, participating in events and supporting industry initiatives. Jeff and Kyle being lifelong advocates of the RV lifestyle, have invested countless hours in their provincial and national associations. Jeff and Kyle both served as directors and then Presidents of the RVDA of Alberta. Both brothers sat as directors on the RVDA of Canada Board. Kyle Redmond is a Past Chair of the RVDA of Canada and Jeff Remond is a Past Chair of Go RVing Canada.

Bucars RV Centre is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive RV ownership experience, offering expert advice, after-sales support, and a focus on customer satisfaction. A key initiative is their Bucars U educational program, designed to provide RV owners and enthusiasts with valuable knowledge. Through workshops, seminars, and hands-on sessions, participants learn essential skills, from maintenance and troubleshooting to best practices for making the most of their RV adventures. Bucars U empowers owners to confidently embrace the RV lifestyle and enjoy their RV adventures.

In addition to their commitment to the RV community, the team at Bucars is involved in numerous charitable initiatives including The Alex Community Health Bus, The Youth Bus and the Dental Bus, as well as the Man Van. The Man Van, operated by the Prostate Cancer Centre, is a mobile health clinic designed to provide men with convenient access to prostate cancer screening and related healthcare services. This innovative van travels to various locations, offering free, on-site screenings, consultations, and educational resources to raise awareness about prostate cancer and promote early detection.

When not at the dealership, Jeff and Kyle enjoy active lifestyles and continue to create cherished camping memories with their families. For them, being part of the RV industry is more than just a career—it’s a way of life.

The four other finalists for this award included:

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

The post Redmonds of Bucars RV Named Canadian RV Dealers of the Year first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS – Larry Troutt III of Topper’s Camping Center in Waller, Texas, was named chairman of the RV Dealers Association for 2025 during the association’s annual meeting on Nov. 13, at Paris Las Vegas.

Troutt succeeds Ryan Horsey of Parkview RV Center in Smyrna, Del., who will remain on the board as immediate past chairman.

Troutt became the second RVDA chairman in a row to follow in his father’s footsteps at the top of the RV Dealers Association board on Wednesday at Paris Las Vegas.

Horsey, who handed over the gavel after serving out his term, was following his father Rick Horsey as well.

“It was definitely a time of transition and education for me,” Horsey said. “If I could go back and tell my younger self one thing to prepare me for the past year, it would be to pay more attention to English class.”

But Horsey acknowledged the industry as a whole has made strides toward improving repair event cycle time over the past year = a goal that has been set in front of every chairman over about the past seven years.

“That’s an improvement benefitting all shareholders,” he said.

“Next to working with family and friends, serving RVDA has been one of the best experiences of my professional career,” Horsey said.

Troutt congratulated Horsey on his year at the helm and favorably compared their two experiences.

“We are a small dealership getting close to 60 years in business, and just like Ryan before me we are in our third generation of ownership and operation,” he said. “And I wouldn’t be standing here today without what my father has done for Topper’s and the RV industry. Now being married and having kids I’m beginning to understand what it took to not only run a great dealership but come home and be two great role models for me and my sister.”

During the session, President Phil Ingrassia gave a look at the state of the industry and delivered a positive sentiment.

He said that after a long period of headwinds that slowed every aspect of the industry, 2025 is looking like a time to pick up some tailwinds. The Federal Reserve seems poised to lower interest rates, and the new administration and Congress are likely to provide new opportunities to improve business conditions.

He also touted an RVDA pilot program for a help desk to provide solutions on a wide range of issues dealers face.

The entire new slate of RVDA officers for 2025 are:

• Chairman Larry Troutt III of Topper’s Camping Center in Waller, Texas
• First Vice Chairman Bob Been of Blue Compass RV in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
• Second Vice Chairman Brad Bacon of Pleasureland RV Center in St. Cloud, Minn.
• Treasurer Lane Bell of Bell Camper Sales in Bartlesville, Okla.
• Secretary LaDonna Meadows of Tacoma RV Center in Tacoma, Wash.

The new board of directors members are:

• Michael Moix of Moix RV Super Center in Conway, Ark.
• Jeff Myers of Myers RV Center in Albuquerque, N.M.
• Russ Perkins of Tri-Am RV Center in Bulls Gap, Tenn.
• They join Travis Creech of Rex & Sons RV in Wilmington, N.C. as directors.

Also included are:

• RV Assistance Corporation Chairman Jeff Hirsch, Campers Inn, Jacksonville, Fla.
• RV Rental Association Chairman Scott Krenek, Krenek RV Center, Coloma, Mich.
• RV Learning Center Chairman Jeff Pastore, Hartville RV Center, Hartville, Ohio

RVDA President Phil Ingrassia continues as a non-voting member of the Board.

A number of awards were delivered including the following:

• James B. Summers Award went to longtime RVDA staff member Ronnie Hepp

Chairman’s Service Awards were given to:

• Andy Cripe of Wave Express
• Curt Hemmeler of RVTI
• Corey Ruzicka of Priority RV Network
• Shawn Moran of Brown & Brown
• Rick Horsey and Joy Horsey of Parkview RV Center

An RVDA Special Award was presented to Chris Andro of Hemlock Hill RV Sales.

RVDA, the National RV Dealers Association, is the only national association dedicated to advancing the RV retailer’s best interests through education, member services, industry leadership, and market expansion programs that promote the increased sale and use of RVs and that enhance the positive image of the RV experience. For more information, go to www.rvda.org

The post Larry Troutt III of Topper’s Camping Center Elected RVDA Chair first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. – RVBusiness presented the 13th edition of its Top 50 Dealers Awards on Wednesday night at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo at Paris Las Vegas.

But as usual, it was the final special honors of the night that showed what the RV industry is all about. Those awards brought out the care for their communities that the dealers have at heart as well as the respect and honor dealers hold for those who have paved the way in leadership roles before them.

As Curtis Trailers received the Arthur Decio Humanitarian Award for its work with Make A Wish, COO Kory Goetz detailed his company’s work to provide custom-made trailers for kids so they can make special trips. Since 2018, Curtis Trailers has partnered in 18 trailer wishes for critically ill children.

“A trailer gives kids like (wish-maker) Zoey a chance to get away from her routine,” Goetz said. “You can’t imagine the impact these wishes have on our team. Meeting these kids and seeing the tremendous challenges they face keeps life’s priorities in focus. This gift is the epitome of what our industry was founded on.”

In similar fashion, when receiving the first Sherman Goldenberg Digital Excellence Award, Nathan Hart of Walnut Ridge Family RV Sales was thankful for being recognized for digital innovations, but he also was quick to acknowledge the contributions of the award’s namesake to spreading the industry’s message over the years as publisher of RVBusiness magazine.

Walnut Ridge has been a groundbreaker in using AI technology for marketing, lead gathering and putting customers together with sales reps who can help them find the right RV for their needs.

“This award’s especially special to me and our team because it’s named after Sherman Goldenberg,” Hart said. “I got to know him pretty well in my time on the RVDA board, and he was at every event, every board meeting, every industry introduction of product – my respect for him only grew each time I spoke with him. His vision for our industry is really becoming realized in the way we’ve become more united.”

For the Gaylord Maxwell Innovation Award, Campers Inn RV was the winner, for changing its marketing efforts to create consistent advertising campaigns for all 36 of its locations.

“Part of Campers Inn’s vision statement is being an innovative leader and positive disruptor,” said Ben Hirsch, COO of Campers Inn. “This idea of hyper-targeted advertising and some of the other parts started from an advisory board. And it grew to how to we get in front of our customers to deliver that real-time content.”

Five Blue Ribbon Awards were presented to outstanding dealers, including:

• Princess Craft RV, Round Rock, Texas
• Moix RV Supercenter, Conway, Ark.
• Fraserway RV, Abbotsford, B.C.
• Bucars RV Centre, Balzac, Alb
• Beaver Coach Sales & Service, Bend, Ore.

Each year, RV manufacturers are invited to nominate their best RV-retailing dealer partners as Top 50 Honorees, and this year well over 200 such nominations were received.

Nominated retailers are then encouraged to complete application forms for review by an anonymous, independent panel of industry judges – 12 of whom stepped up after this past Labor Day weekend for a rather intense day-and-a-half session at Elkhart’s RV/MH Hall of Fame, where they reviewed the applicants’ submissions to determine the final list of Top 50 dealers and special award designees.

Top 50 dealer honorees are, in alphabetical order:

1. Airstream Adventures, Portland, Ore.
2. Alpin Haus RV, Amsterdam, N.Y.
3. Bama RV, Dothan, Ala.
4. Beaver Coach Sales & Service, Bend, Ore.
5. Bent’s RV, Boutte, La.
6. Bowling RV, Ottumwa, Iowa
7. Bucars RV Centre, Balzac, Alberta
8. Byerly RV Center, Eureka, Mo.
9. Camperland of Oklahoma, Tulsa, Okla.
10. Campers Inn RV, Jacksonville, Fla.
11. Colonial Airstream & RV, Millstone Township, N.J.
12. Crestview RV, Buda, Texas
13. Curtis Trailers, Portland, Ore.
14. Fraserway RV, Abbotsford, B.C.
15. Fun Town RV, Fort Worth, Texas
16. General RV, Wixom, Mich.
17. Gib’s RV Superstore, Coos Bay, Ore.
18. Great American RV SuperStores, Hammond, La.
19. Greeneway RV Sales & Service, Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.
20. Hartville RV Center, Hartville, Ohio
21. Hemlock Hill RV, Southington, Conn.
22. Hilltop Camper & RV, Fridley, Minn.
23. Leisure Time Sales, Quispamsis, New Brunswick
24. Moix RV Supercenter, Conway, Ark.
25. Mountaineer RV & Outdoor Center, Jane Lew, W.V.
26. Owasco RV Centre, Bowmanville, Ontario
27. Parkview RV Center, Smyrna, Del.
28. PleasureLand RV Center, St. Cloud, Minn.
29. Premier RV, Blue Grass, Iowa
30. Primeaux RV Superstores, Carencro, La.
31. Princess Craft RV, Round Rock, Texas
32. Rangeland RV & Trailer Sales, Rocky View, Alberta
33. RCD RV Supercenter, Pataskala, Ohio
34. Rich & Sons RV Headquarters, Grand Island, Neb.
35. Ron Hoover RV & Marine Centers, Rockport, Texas
36. Sicard RV, Smithville, Ontario
37. Skaggs Family RV, Elizabethtown, Ky.
38. Southaven RV & Marine, Southaven, Miss.
39. Southern RV, McDonough, Ga.
40. Steinbring Motorcoach, Garfield, Minn.
41. United RV Center, Fort Worth, Texas
42. Unlimited RV, Independence, Mo.
43. Veurink’s RV Center, Grand Rapids, Mich.
44. Vogt RV World, Fort Worth, Texas
45. Voyager RV Centre, Winfield, British Columbia
46. Walnut Ridge Family RV Sales, New Castle, Ind.
47. Wilkins RV, Bath, N.Y.
48. Windish RV, Lakewood, Colo.
49. Woodland Airstream, Grand Rapids, Mich.
50. Woody’s RV World, Calgary, Alberta

The post RVB Top 50 Dealers Bring Out Tender Spot at Heart of Industry first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ANTIOCH, Tenn. – LKQ Corporation (Nasdaq: LKQ) today announced in a press release that Keystone Automotive Operations, a subsidiary of LKQ’s Specialty segment, received the Channel Partner of the Year Award at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, the leading venue that brings together manufacturers and buyers within the automotive specialty equipment industry.

In addition, Warn Industries, a segment of Keystone Automotive Operations, won the Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product Award in the Best New Products Award category.

“We are pleased to be recognized for our leadership in the distribution of SEMA product lines and RV and marine accessories, as we continue to drive innovation and serve the diverse needs of our customers,” said Bill Rogers, President of Keystone Automotive Operations. “We are focused on operational excellence throughout the business and capitalizing on our growth potential as the Specialty market environment improves. These awards are validation of our efforts and the dedication of our talented teams.”

SEMA is a membership association representing over 7,000 member companies that create, buy, sell, and use specialty-automotive parts that make vehicles more unique, attractive, convenient, safer and fun. The Channel Partner of the Year Award recognizes Keystone Automotive Operation’s significant contributions to the aftermarket parts distribution industry, citing its commitment to new technologies and cutting-edge logistics and inventory management systems that ensure timely and accurate deliveries to customers.

The post Keystone Automotive Named 2024 Channel Partner of the Year first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

RVing in New England,” the weekly Facebook Live show hosted by the New England RV Dealers Association (NERVDA), this week features a discussion about the so-called “Trump Bump” a noticeable spike in activity since the presidential election Nov. 5.

Co-hosted by Bob Zagami and John DiPietro, tonight’s show airs at 7 p.m. ET.

The post Tonight’s ‘RVing in New England’ Show Looks at ‘Trump Bump’ first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Exodus Rigs, a pioneer in the RV industry, introduces its first model, the Capax, at the LA Auto Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center Nov. 22-Dec. 1.Want to enjoy the outdoors while experiencing high-end amenities and life-on-the-road-enhancing technology? The Capax is the RV reimagined. Check out this new California-made mobile marvel at Booth WA-06 in the West Atrium.

Tour each of the Capax Premier Edition in three of its usability variations: Towing Mode, Picnic Mode, and Camping Mode. The Capax Premier Edition offers the model’s top notch Platinum styling loaded with the maximum specifications available. Created for sophisticated and uncompromising adventurers, these convertible and expandable travel trailers deliver next-level tech and design. 

“Exodus Rigs is bringing the combination of ‘garageability,’ luxurious but practical design, cutting-edge technology, and multi-functionality to the premium travel trailer market,”  said Shaddi Gohar, CEO, Exodus Rigs. “The waiting is over. We’ve brought the only no-sacrifices-needed travel trailer to the market.”

Exodus Rigs is the brainchild of Gohar and his son Fareed Gohar, the company’s product manager, who have a passion for camping. The duo elevated their initial Jeep trailer fabrication project in their  garage into a campsite sensation – and a new kind of company was born. One devoted to solving the pain points of the RV industry.

An Innovative Up Start Shakes Up RV Norms

Exodus Rigs prides itself on delivering what outdoor enthusiasts want, but never thought they could have.

Garageable Design: Tired of trying to park an oversized RV? The Capax offers garageability. Simply pull it into a standard home garage where its 15 compartments  and three-piece door remain fully accessible in its collapsed state. No need for an RV storage trip. Everything stays accessible at your fingertips, keeping your garage tidy from cluttered tools, toys, and camping supplies. Storing, packing and staging are a snap, hitting the road for spontaneous getaways or extensive travels has never been quicker.

Multi-Functional: The Capax is multi-use to the extreme. Everything has more than one function, which means the Capax‘s smaller footprint works harder than any other travel trailer ever built. Full accessibility from both the interior and exterior makes life on the road as easy as it gets. Access the bathroom without going inside the trailer. Stand outside and enjoy the view while stocking the cooler and refrigerator. Fully slide-out closet removes packing pain points.

Built for More. The Capax delivers creative storage and cozy living spaces by day; beds by night. Inside capacity provides those working on the road with a dedicated  workspace big enough for two monitors. A semi-dry bathroom keeps the wet out. Marine grade material and superior build-quality means the trailer is everything-proof. 

Aerodynamic Efficiency. The Capax offers aerodynamic, automotive-style manufacturing, with enhanced safety and ease-of-towing.  Lower height towing decreases the drag coefficient of the rig, further increasing stability, maneuverability, and energy efficiency.

Off-Road & Off-Grid. Go off-road thanks to axle-less air suspension and three pre-set travel ranges that provide maximum ground clearance for rough terrain.  Stay connected with StarLink internet. Solar panels provide electricity on the go, so searching for hookups are a thing of the past. Increased tank capacity means longer stays on the road.

Room for a Crowd. The Capax invites family and friends to come along for the fun. As a mobile basecamp, it accommodates larger groups and provides utilities, bath and kitchen amenities, and renewable energy sources for extended trips.

Place a Capax Order at the Show

A limited number of Capax Premier Edition travel trailers are being produced. Place orders at the show for these exclusive first editions. Be the first in line for delivery and enjoy a multitude of benefits including: customizations, a private delivery event with Exodus Rigs executives, bespoke gifts, lifetime concierge services and access to upgrades, invitations to adventure events and road trips including special Exodus-sponsored outings and exhibitions, extended warranties, maintenance packages, and servicing benefits, plus exclusive access to Exodus Rigs’ Founders Club and ownership portals.

Meet Exodus Rigs representatives at Booth WA-O6 in the West Atrium and get a Capax Premier Edition while supplies last. Visit exodusrigs.com to learn more.

The post Exodus Rigs RV Combines Tech, Design and Garageability first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Outdoor destinations that were beloved in the 1980s are making a major comeback, according to recent data from Campspot, a camping booking site. Building on its recent (Re)Creation Vacation trend report, which revealed that Americans are seeking nostalgia-driven getaways in response to modern pressures, Campspot today unveiled the top U.S. travel hotspots from the ’80s that are experiencing a resurgence in 2025. As the desire to reconnect with the past grows, and with the 1980s reported as the top decade travelers wish to escape to according to survey data, these legendary outdoor destinations are attracting a new generation of adventurers eager to experience the charm of yesteryear.

By cross-referencing the most popular 1980s outdoor destinations with current search data from their platform, Campspot created the ’80s (Re)vival Rankings, identifying the top five destinations in each U.S. region that have captured the attention of campers for the coming year.

“The sense of nostalgia our data reveals is powerful,” says Erin Stender, CMO of Campspot. “As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that travelers are gravitating toward places that remind them of simpler times, whether it’s revisiting a national park they visited in the ’80s or discovering the same outdoor treasures their parents once enjoyed.”

The ’80s (Re)vival Rankings Revealed

West:

• West Yellowstone, MT – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Yellowstone National Park, WY/MT/ID
• Grand Canyon, AZ – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Yosemite, CA – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Yosemite National Park, CA
• Estes Park, CO – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
• Moab, UT – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Arches National Park, UT

Midwest:

• Traverse City, MI – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI
• Mackinaw City, MI – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Mackinac Island, MI
• Cleveland, OH – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
• Rapid City, SD – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Badlands National Park, SD
• Duluth, MN – Nearby 1980s hotspots: Voyageurs National Park, MN; Lake Superior Shoreline, MN/WI

South:

• Miami, FL – Nearby 1980s hotspots: Everglades National Park, FL; Biscayne National Park, FL
• Gatlinburg, TN – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC
• Mammoth Cave, KY – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Mammoth Cave National Park, KY
• Asheville, NC – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Blue Ridge Parkway, VA/NC
• South Padre Island, TX – Nearby 1980s hotspot: South Padre Island, TX

Northeast:

• Bar Harbor, ME – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Acadia National Park, ME
• Lake George, NY – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Adirondack Mountains, NY
• Boston, MA – Nearby 1980s hotspots: Cape Cod National Seashore, MA; Berkshires, MA
• North Conway, NH – Nearby 1980s hotspots: White Mountains, NH; Mount Washington, NH
• Stowe, VT – Nearby 1980s hotspot: Green Mountains, VT

The 1980s Are Back: Why Nostalgia Is Fueling Travel in 2025

Today’s campers are flocking to outdoor destinations that were beloved in the 1980s, from the towering cliffs of Yosemite to the sandy shores of Sleeping Bear Dunes. But this resurgence is more than a fleeting trend– it’s part of a larger cultural shift where travelers seek comfort and connection in the face of modern uncertainties. As Campspot’s recent (Re)Creation Vacation report revealed, 88% of Americans are seeking escapes to simpler times, with many looking to recapture the joy and adventure they experienced during their childhood.

The growing appeal of these destinations is rooted in both personal memories and a broader longing for simpler experiences. According to Campspot’s data, 7 in 10 respondents are willing to trade modern conveniences for a chance to experience life as it was in the ’80s, with camping providing the perfect opportunity to unplug and recapture the magic of childhood trips. In fact, 94% of respondents reported seeing camping as a key form of stress relief, and another 80% agree that camping trips reconnect families free from the stress of modern life.

Whether it’s setting up camp under the stars or trekking iconic trails, it’s clear why these ’80s revival locations are seeing renewed popularity, driven by a collective yearning to escape digital overload and reconnect with nature in ways that mirror the adventures of the past.

“As travelers embrace the (Re)Creation Vacation trend, we’re seeing these 1980s-era hotspots come back to life for a new generation of campers,” Stender adds. “Their timeless appeal, combined with modern updates, offers the best of both worlds—a nod to the past and an authentic outdoor experience that still resonates today.”

About Campspot

Campspot is the leading software provider and online marketplace for RV resorts, family campgrounds, cabins, glamping options, and more, providing access to more than 230,000 campsites across the United States and Canada. Their innovative online marketplace simplifies the process of finding and booking campsites with a user-friendly platform and a diverse selection of campgrounds. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, Campspot has the perfect spot for you.

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Effective Nov. 1, Jasper Hafkamp was appointed the new Global Managing Director of Brink Group, according to a company release.

Brink Group, one of the global market leaders in towing systems, is part of the AL-KO/DexKo group of companies since 2021. Today, the company boasts more than 800 passionate employees spread across nine locations (including Staphorst and Oosterhout in the Netherlands, France, Thailand, South Africa, Denmark, Poland, Italy, and Australia). The highly engineered product portfolio, which is crucial to safety and performance, includes fixed, detachable, retractable and next generation towbars.

Jasper Hafkamp brings over 20 years of extensive experience in the Daimler/Mercedes-Benz organization and a proven track record of leadership, general management, sales and marketing as well as after sales and operations. His focus was on growing business, building diverse teams, market development and new business approaches to ensure expansion in challenging markets.

Harald Hiller, president and CEO of AL-KO Vehicle Technology, comments: “I am delighted that we have gained Jasper Hafkamp as an experienced leader who will enrich our global management team. Jasper will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our operations, driving our strategic initiatives, and continuing to build on our success. We are confident that under his leadership we will achieve new heights and continue to deliver exceptional value to our stakeholders.”

Jasper Hafkamp says: “I am very happy to be a part of the Brink Group and the AL-KO/DexKo organization. Brink has a long history and is a global leader in towbar solutions. My focus will be on providing our customers with the highest level of support and offering them the best possible products and services. Driving change and the further development and expansion of the international group, based on a clear vision and strategy, will be one of my main tasks. I am convinced that a dedicated, diverse and successful team is the key to success. I look forward to soon getting to know all our customers, partners, and employees and making a meaningful contribution to the company’s success.”

More information can be found at www.brink.eu.

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