Month: December 2024

Despite slowing inflation and a healthier overall economy, the outdoor retail market continues to face challenges, according to a release from the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). From shifting consumer behavior to cautious spending habits, there remains significant growth opportunities for outdoor industry businesses as we head into the new year. Read on to get a high-level overview of the trends driving the outdoor economy, as detailed in our recent State of the Outdoor Market Report Winter 2024.  

GDP is up, But Outdoor Retail Sales Remain Low

The U.S. economy is showing signs of growth, with GDP increasing by 2.8% in Q3, low unemployment at 4.2%, and wages steadily rising. Inflation is under control at 2.6%, and consumer sentiment remains high. Yet, despite these positive economic indicators, the outdoor retail market has seen a 5% dip in sales for the July-September period, totaling $6.2 billion. 

Shifting Consumer Behavior: From Big-Ticket Items to Casual Gear

One notable trend is a shift from high-ticket outdoor gear—such as kayaks and camping equipment—to more casual and affordable products. Consumers are prioritizing items like road running shoes, casual apparel, and insulated cups. These products cater to the growing number of casual outdoor participants who enjoy activities like hiking, biking, or park visits, but don’t require specialized gear. 

Holiday Shopping Outlook: Small Retailers Shine

The holiday shopping season presents a potential bright spot for the outdoor market. Interestingly, many outdoor consumers are turning to small retailers this season. Over half plan to shop at smaller stores, seeking personalized service and expertise. For independent outdoor brands, this trend presents a valuable opportunity. 

Challenges in Outdoor Retail Sales

Despite the positive outlook for the holidays, outdoor product sales in September 2024 were down across the board. The decline affected every major sales channel, including large retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and REI, as well as online sales. Categories such as hiking boots, trail running shoes, and outerwear saw sharp decreases in both units sold and revenue. 

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Outdoor Brands?

While the broader economy remains strong, outdoor retailers face an uphill battle in 2024. The shift toward casual outdoor gear, combined with a more cautious consumer mindset, suggests that sales may remain flat or even dip. For brands to succeed, they’ll need to focus on more affordable products, adapt to the growing number of casual participants, and leverage the trend toward small-business shopping during the holidays. 

Conclusion: A Market in Transition

The outdoor retail market is experiencing a shift, with consumers increasingly opting for casual outdoor gear rather than expensive, specialized equipment. The economic landscape remains positive overall, but inflation and changing consumer behavior are driving a more cautious approach to spending. Outdoor brands that understand and adapt to these trends—by offering more affordable, casual products and tapping into the holiday shopping momentum—will be better positioned to thrive in 2024 and beyond. 

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JASPER, Ind. – Meyer Distributing announces a new partnership with Grizzly.

Rooted in a love for the great outdoors, Grizzly was born out of a desire to provide fellow adventurers with reliable and durable equipment that can withstand the rigors of nature, the release continued. Whether you’re embarking on a hunting expedition, setting up camp in the wilderness, or simply enjoying a day out on the water, Grizzly products are designed to enhance your outdoor experience. Their coolers, duffle bags, and apparel are engineered to perform in even the harshest conditions, ensuring that you can focus on the journey ahead with confidence. From the materials they use to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each product, Grizzly takes pride in delivering gear that exceeds expectations.

“We are excited for the new partnership with Meyer Distributing and look forward to working with their team to help grow the Grizzly brand,” claims Isaac Goetzinger, Sales Director for Grizzly. “Meyer has a highly efficient sales and shipping network with the ability to service their customers in a timely and reliable manner.” 

Nick Gramelspacher, VP of Brand Strategy for Meyer, responds, “Are you looking for that showroom statement piece? Pick up one of Grizzly’s monster 450-quart coolers! Just picture it with kids, an ice bath, etc. – it would make the ultimate showroom piece.”

Meyer Distributing is a complete international automotive and RV/towing distributor. With 109 locations nationwide and over 3,500,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space, Meyer has a huge inventory of parts to service their customers. With strategically positioned warehouse facilities, Meyer Distributing is able to provide next day delivery to most locations using Meyer Logistics direct ship.

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ESSLINGEN, Germany – In Przylesie, Poland, the Eberspaecher management celebrates the opening of a new production plant together with the Brzeg District Governor Jacek Monkiewicz and Mayor of the municipality of Olszanka, Tymoteusz Drebschok. The company manufactures thermal management systems for electric city buses and coaches on 12,500 square meters. Production starts in December.

“The increasing demand for electric buses requires us to expand our capacities for bus air conditioning systems,” explains Jörg Steins, CEO Eberspaecher Group. The Bus and Coach Business Unit has been producing in Poland for seven years. Previously as part of the Eberspaecher site in Olawa. Where vehicle heaters for all drive types continue to be produced. Around 100 employees are now moving to the new building. In addition to the relocated production lines and the central spare parts warehouse, series production of a new thermal management system for electric city buses and coaches from leading international manufacturers is being built there. Up to 20,000 systems will roll off the production line each year. “With around 30 percent more capacity compared to the previous site, we are ideally positioned for current and future e-mobility orders,” emphasizes Jörg Steins. Over the next three to five years, Eberspaecher plans to grow to 150 employees in Przylesie. “I believe that this cooperation with such reputable partners will promote the dynamic development of our community,” points out Tymoteusz Drebschok, Mayor of the municipality Olszanka.

The new building on the 7R Park Przylesie industrial estate is just two kilometers from the A4/E40 freeway junction. “In addition to the location, the main focus during construction was on environmental aspects,” explains Oliver Wels, Executive Vice President of the Bus and Coach Business Unit. The plant reduces operational CO₂ emissions by at least 50 percent and primary energy requirements by 70 percent compared to a building constructed in accordance with Polish building regulations. The photovoltaic system and a heating and cooling system based on heat pumps are the main contributors to this. In addition to production, the new site also houses production-related areas such as production planning, order processing, purchasing and controlling.

In addition to the lines relocated from Olawa, two new production lines are being built. Eberspaecher will be manufacturing the AC138 EVO thermal management system here from January 2025. “The AC138 EVO with its patented reversal of the air circuit is our high-tech and market‑defining top product for electromobility,” adds Oliver Wels. The heat pump developed especially for hybrid and battery-electric buses impresses with its low system complexity and high energy efficiency. Eberspaecher is introducing the system with the climate-friendly refrigerant CO₂, R744.

The post Eberspaecher Announces Opening of New Plant in Poland first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

A Bridge to the Future is the theme for the 2025 Family RV Association’s (FRVA) Glamarama 2025, to be held June 4-7 in Allegan, Mich. Glamarama is hosted by a local chapter of FRVA, a national organization that was formerly called the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA).

President of the Great Lakes Family RV Association, Kevin Watters, said this is not a new event but in 2025 and 2026 they’ll be in Allegan, Mich., at the Allegan County Fairgrounds.

“It’s hard to find a place to accommodate 250-300 RV’s,” he said.

All the sites at the Allegan County Fairgrounds have either 30 amp or 50 amp hookups with water.

The June rally includes four nights of camping with three nights of live entertainment including card Bingo. There will be morning coffee and doughnuts, a full breakfast on Saturday morning, family friendly fun activities including crafts, games and seminars.

Watters said there is plenty to explore in the Allegan area, including nearby landmarks like Windmill Island Gardens, the Felt Mansion and the Cappon House Museum.

Watters said attendees can also choose, for an additional cost of $69, to take a paddlewheel boat excursion on the Star of Saugatuck on the Kalamazoo River with scenic views of Lake Michigan and it includes a boxed lunch.

Watters said, “This is not just a rally but also a chance to make memories, share laughter and build lasting connections as we celebrate the spirit of family and RV travels!”

Registration opened online Dec. 4 at www.fmca.com under events. Watters mentioned there is a discount for early registrations.

The post Registration Open for Great Lakes FRVA’s Glamarama 2025 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Jayco’s Mike Aplin highlights the 2025 Jayco Pinnacle lineup of fifth-wheels in this episode of RVBusiness OEM Showcase.

The post OEM Showcase: Closer Look at Jayco 2025 Pinnacle 32RLTS first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Campers Inn RV, the nation’s largest family-operated RV dealership group, announces the promotion of Ricky Chynoweth and Daniel Knight to National Sales Directors. Chynoweth will serve as National Motorized Sales Director, while Knight will lead as National Towable Sales Director. Both will work collaboratively to continue driving growth and excellence in Campers Inn RV’s sales operations, according to a release.

Chynoweth brings over 11 years of experience with Campers Inn RV to his new role. His extensive background includes serving as the company’s Director of Strategic Initiatives, as well as holding positions such as Regional Sales Director and General Manager. His leadership and strategic insight have been instrumental in shaping company initiatives, and he will continue to play a key role in developing and implementing strategies for the motorized division.

Knight, a valued member of the Campers Inn RV team for seven years, steps into his new role with a wealth of experience as a General Manager, Market Manager, and Regional Sales Director. He will continue to oversee the Myrtle Beach market while leading the company’s national towable division, ensuring operational excellence and innovation across the towable segment.

“It has been incredible to watch Ricky and Daniel grow into the exceptional leaders they are today,” said Ben Hirsch, COO of Campers Inn RV. “They are the right people for these roles, and I am excited to see where their leadership takes us. With a renewed focus on providing the right inventory for our customers at the right time and driving our success through superior sales operations, we are well-positioned for a strong future.”

Campers Inn RV congratulates Chynoweth and Knight on their well-deserved promotions and looks forward to their contributions in their new roles.

About Campers Inn RV

Founded in 1966, Campers Inn RV is the largest family-operated RV dealership in the United States. With over three dozen locations nationwide, the company is committed to enriching the lives of its customers by providing quality products and services that help them find their ‘AWAY.’

For more information about Campers Inn RV, visit www.campersinn.com.

The post Campers Inn RV Promotes Ricky Chynoweth, Daniel Knight first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Discover the new portable power solution, giving true independence for any outdoor activities, according to a press release from Dometic North America.

Combining high-end innovation with incomparable functionality, the new ice-free Dometic CFX5 Series stands out with its energy-saving and weight-reducing Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIP), a first for Dometic electric coolers. With best in class insulation and unmatched energy efficiency, the VIP of electric coolers is here to set a new standard for inspired exploration.

From rugged camping excursions and family weekend getaways to indulgent day trips, the Dometic CFX5 is the most advanced portable plug-in fridge, a travel companison you always can trust while adventuring farther.

Housing Dometic’s most powerful compressor ever – VMSO 3.5 – the CFX5 provides superior refrigeration and freezing capabilities along with dual-zone cooling options on select models; all of which can be controlled remotely through the Dometic app. The CFX5’s capability of reaching temps as low as -7 F ensures all your food and beverage needs/wants — like fresh oysters, frosty beers, and frozen ice cream — are at desiareble state wherever you go.

“The pinnacle of electric coolers is here,” says Josh Militello, President of Segment Mobile Cooling Solutions at Dometic. “With the CFX5, we’re redefining outdoor experiences – for those who want to explore more, without compromising on the finer things. The CFX5’s rugged build is road-ready with every detail considered, like an alert when the lid is left
open and a convenient built-in bottle opener.”

The Dometic CFX5’s design is as practical as it is premium. With elevated colors of Ore and Slate (lid), the CFX5 comes in a variety of sizes with every inch dedicated to storage, not ice. Refined features include an easy-open latch, a removable, non-slip lid, and sturdy handles designed for ergonomic carrying, making transport easier and more comfortable — whether you’re loading into your SUV setting up your remote campsite. The easy-to-read, weatherproof TFT display makes for intuitive operation. Plus, removable baskets are included inside the CFX5 for customizable organization on the go.

The advanced battery protection system promises reliable performance when connected to your vehicle or powered by Dometic’s batteries. Peace of mind for rugged environments or everyday exploration. For anyone, anywhere. Plan or no plan. So, where to next?

MSRPs are:

• 25L: $800
• 35L: $875
• 45L: $950
• 55IM: $1,075
• 75DZ: $1,250
• 95DZ: $1,400

The post Dometic Introduces ‘Your Ultimate Portable 26Power Solution’ first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FINDLAY, Ohio – EmergencyRV, a non-profit organization that provides housing to displaced survivors of natural disasters and has gifted 77 campers to people impacted by Hurricane Helene since the storm wreaked havoc in the Carolinas, Georgia and Tennessee at the end of September, according to a report by WFIN Radio 95.5 in Findlay.

The RVs are gifted completely free with a clean title in the recipient’s name. Most recently, two families in North Carolina who were impacted by Helene received the gifts of a lifetime on Christmas Day – a new place to call home.

The first recipient was the Penley family, of Boone, N.C., who lost everything during the storm.

The family of four was discharged from the hospital on Wednesday following the birth of their second child and was planning on moving into a homeless shelter until EmergencyRV stepped in.

“We weren’t gonna have that at EmergencyRV. We got this trailer here for them and it’s going to be a great place for them to stay now,” the company said in a video posted on X.

The RV gifted to the Penleys will comfortably fit their family, which consists of two adults, a toddler and a newborn. It has a bedroom on one side of the camper and two sleeping areas on the other side, along with a nice-sized bathroom and a large kitchen area with seating at a table and a couch.

The second recipient was Timothy McCord, a 70-year-old Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam. Helene tore the roof off of his camper, where he continued to live despite experiencing leaks and other damage.

EmergencyRV traveled to Canton, North Carolina, to gift him a brand-new camper after McCord’s daughter contacted the company explaining that he needed help.

Click here to view the complete report at WFIN.com.

The post ‘EmergencyRV’ Donates Units to Hurricane Helene Victims first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ELKHART, Ind. – East To West officials are proud to announce the success of this year’s Christmas Food Drive, hosted by Plants 500, 501, 502, 503 and 504. Thanks to the generosity and community spirit of the company’s employees, according to a release, the drive collected an impressive 2,279 pounds of food, surpassing last year’s total of 2,240 pounds.

Each year, East To West, a division of Forest River Inc., selects a different local organization to assist, ensuring that its employees’ hometown communities are supported during the holiday season. This year, donations collected were sent to Helping Hands Food Pantry of Cass County, Michigan. This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of East To West to making a positive impact in the community we call home.

“We are incredibly proud of our teams for coming together to help those who need it most,” said East To West Founder and General Manager Lisa Rees. “The holiday season can be especially hard on local families, so we’re hopeful that this drive will provide meaningful support. Our employees truly embody the holiday spirit and their generosity and dedication to helping others is inspiring.”

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, buses, vans, and commercial vehicles. 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, Ind., 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.

The post East To West Christmas Food Drive Spreads Holiday Cheer first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FAIRFAX, Va. – Results for the RV Industry Association’s November 2024 survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments ended the month of November with 23,573 units, a decrease of 6.3% compared to the 25,160 units shipped in November 2023.

“RV shipments remain on track to be slightly higher over 2023 to finish in line with the latest ITR forecast,” said RV Industry Association President & CEO Craig Kirby. “As we look to the new year, the RV industry is poised for additional growth with RVing remaining a preferred way to travel and make memorable experiences with family and friends.”

Towable RVs, led by conventional travel trailers, ended the month down 3.1% from last November with 20,771 shipments. Motorhomes finished the month down 24.9% compared to the same month last year with 2,802 units.

To date, RVs are up 6.5% compared to the same period last year with 310,580 units shipped through November. 
Park Model RVs finished November down 3.1% compared to the same month last year, with 315 wholesale shipments.

Below you will find charts showing 2023/2024 month over month total wholesale RV and Park Model shipments. Click here to view the November 2024 shipment numbers published on the RV Industry Association website and click here to view the Shipment Report in PDF format.

The post RVIA: RV Shipments Top 23K in Nov.; Off 6.3% from Nov. ’23 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.