FAIRFAX, Va. – RV dealers looking to leverage the power of the industry’s national advertising and promotion campaign at the local level can now sign up for the 2025 Go RVing Dealer program through the RV Dealers Association (RVDA).
Through the industry portal section of the Go RVing website at GoRVing.com, dealers can download royalty-free photos, visuals, artwork for dealer websites, digital promotions, and other marketing needs.
A Google Analytics dashboard provides high-level information about user behavior on the site. Industry personnel can see the most popular pages, search terms driving site traffic, and from where traffic is coming.
Leads generated through the Go RVing website also are available for download to those who sign up for the tie-in program. These targeted leads provide information on potential RVers near participating dealerships.
The cost to sign up for the optional Go RVing Dealer program is $250. To sign up, visit www.rvda.org, email Chuck Boyd at [email protected], or call (703) 591-7130 x113.
Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is due before a Senate committee Thursday as lawmakers consider the Republican’s nomination to be chief steward of U.S. public lands and waters, according to an Associated Press report.
President-elect Donald Trump in November tapped Burgum to be interior secretary and to lead the new National Energy Council, which is charged with promoting oil, gas and other energy development.
The Interior Department oversees a half-billion acres of federal land and vast areas offshore. Combined those areas produce about one-quarter of U.S. oil, or more than 1 billion barrels of crude annually, making them a flashpoint in the debate over how to address climate change.
VAIL, Colo. – Harvest Hosts, a leading membership program for RVers that offers unique camping experiences at farms, wineries, attractions, and other unique locations — and the new owners of Escapees RV Club — announced the addition of Chris Smith, former CEO of the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), as the new leader of Escapees RV Club. With a legacy spanning over 47 years, the Escapees RV Club is poised for an exciting new chapter under Smith’s leadership, continuing its commitment to empowering RV enthusiasts with unparalleled community, benefits, and experiences.
Smith brings a wealth of experience and success from his tenure at FMCA – which recently was renamed the Family RVing Association (FRVA) – where he spearheaded transformative growth, elevated member benefits, and expanded the club’s community-focused programs, solidifying FMCA as a premier organization for RV owners. His proven ability to innovate and connect with the RVing community aligns perfectly with Escapees’ mission of creating a supportive, inclusive, and enriching environment for RVers.
Chris Smith
In 2019, Smith was a recipient of the RVIA’s “40 Under 40” leadership award, recognizing his impact on the RV community. While at FMCA, Smith played a key role in broadening FMCA’s membership base to include all RV owners and RV intending owners, and he continued to add valuable benefits for members. Under his direction, FMCA provided information, programs, and social opportunities that kept RVers actively engaged in the RV lifestyle.
“As a long-time admirer of Escapees RV Club, I am honored to join the team and build upon its incredible legacy,” said Smith. “Under Harvest Hosts’ leadership, we have a unique opportunity to expand the club’s reach, further enrich the member experiences, and continue fostering a sense of belonging that has defined Escapees for nearly five decades.”
Harvest Hosts acquired Escapees RV Club in July 2024, marking a new chapter for the beloved organization. Founded by the Peterson family in 1978, Escapees has been a pioneer in the RV industry, offering a tight-knit community—including the popular Xscapers community, Chapters, and Birds-of-a-Feather groups—along with innovative resources and memorable events. Harvest Hosts remains deeply committed to honoring the Peterson family’s vision while investing in the club’s future.
“Escapees RV Club has always been about community, connection, and adventure,” said Joel Holland, CEO of Harvest Hosts. “Chris Smith is the perfect leader to uphold these values while charting a course for growth and innovation. His success at FMCA speaks for itself, and we are thrilled to have him join our mission to dominate the RV industry by delivering unparalleled value to RVers everywhere.”
Under Harvest Hosts, Escapees RV Club is set to expand its offerings, including enhanced member benefits, exciting new community features, and innovative technologies to support RVers in their journeys. The addition of Chris Smith underscores Harvest Hosts’ commitment to preserving the spirit of Escapees while driving forward its evolution to meet the needs of the modern RVer.
About Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts, the largest private RV camping network in North America, provides a complete network of offerings to streamline the road travel and camping experience. Its collection of companies includes Boondockers Welcome, a community of RVers allowing guests to stay overnight on their property for free; Escapees RV Club, one of the largest and most established RV membership organizations, offering resources, education, and community for all RVers; CampScanner, an alert service to book sold-out campgrounds; and Brit Stops, a membership connecting motorhome tourists in the UK and Ireland with small businesses for overnight stays.
The company’s mission is to advance the technology and accessibility of the RVing and campground industry, making traveling while supporting national parks, local small businesses, and communities easier than ever.
On Thursday, Feb. 6, Go RVing is hosting an RV Industry Association (RVIA) members-only event in the Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart, Ind., to take a deep dive into the all-new Go RVing RV Owner Demographic Profile. This in-depth research provides critical data and actionable strategies for RV businesses seeking to thrive in today’s dynamic market.
What You’ll Discover:
The Changing Face of RVing: Get the latest on demographic trends shaping the industry, including insights into the hearts and minds of first-time and seasoned RVers.
Drive Engagement & Conversions: Learn how Go RVing is turning data into dynamic campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences across various marketing channels.
Supercharge Your Success: Walk away with actionable strategies for RV companies to apply this research directly to their businesses, boosting sales and building lasting customer relationships.
Join Go RVing’s Jeremy Greene, Vice President of Marketing, and Monika Geraci, Senior Director of Public Relations & Communications, as well as Ipsos Vice President Tim Reimer for an in-depth look at this pivotal research. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the evolving RV market!
On Thursday (Jan. 16), KeyBanc Capital Markets provided insights into the recreational vehicle (RV) industry based on observations from the Florida RV SuperShow and investor sessions with companies such as Camping World Holdings Inc . (NYSE:CWH), THOR Industries Inc. (NYSE:THO), and Winnebago Industries Inc . (NYSE:WGO).
The analysts ovserved that ” in our view, affordability remains a concern and, as a result, the magnitude of industry retail recovery heading into spring remains uncertain, though dealers are hopeful this year,” according to a report by Investing,com.
Camping World Holdings Inc. (CWH) – Camping World’s management indicated a more positive retail environment, though they do not anticipate industry retail levels in 2025 to be significantly different from the previous year.
Winnebago Industries Inc. (WGO) – Winnebago Industries reported mixed early-year show results due to weather conditions but remains focused on expanding its product portfolio to cater to a broader range of consumers, emphasizing affordability.
THOR Industries Inc. (THO) – THOR Industries also experienced mixed early-year show results but remains cautiously optimistic about retail prospects in 2025, driven by increased dealer optimism.
LOS ANGELES – Mayor Karen Bass has updated the executive order of a local declaration of emergency to facilitate rebuilding in the fire zones when repopulation becomes possible, according to a report by West Side Today. At least one part of the declaration seems to be a 180 in city policy of recent years, namely allowing recreational vehicles to be used as temporary homes.
This update of the declaration will focus on debris removal, rebuilding permits, and watershed hazard mitigation, the report continued. There is a high level of concern about and from people who have been displaced, especially since many have no idea if their homes still stand.
The city has launched a Debris Removal Task Force in coordination with state and federal agencies, including the California Office of Emergency Services. This initiative aims to clear hazardous materials and ensure compliance with environmental regulations to prevent contamination of groundwater and air.
A Watershed Hazards Task Force has also been established to assess post-fire risks such as flash floods and mudslides. Emergency mitigation measures will be implemented to protect infrastructure and public safety.
Key components of the order include:
Disaster Recovery Permitting Center: A one-stop center will be set up in affected areas to provide expedited permit processing. City departments, alongside state and federal agencies like FEMA, will staff the center seven days a week.
Expedited Permit Reviews: Reconstruction permits for fire-damaged homes will be processed within 30 days, with inspections conducted within two business days of requests. Utility clearances will be issued within five business days.
Temporary Housing Solutions: Affected property owners can use recreational vehicles, tiny homes, modular structures, and mobile homes on their properties for up to three years or while an active building permit applies to said property, whichever is longer, during the rebuilding process.
WICHITA, Kan. – Airxcel returns for its sixth year as a title sponsor for the 2025 NTP-Stag Expo, which is Jan. 20-21 at the Gaylord Rockies Convention Center, Aurora, Colo.
Each year, the NTP-Stag Expo brings together the top recreational vehicle dealers in North America for a two-day expo featuring a 115,000-sq. ft. exhibition hall and a full slate of presentations by suppliers and educational speakers. Airxcel has been a title sponsor of this show since 2020.
“Airxcel continues to introduce innovative products and new brands each year for RV dealers,” said Piar Adams, Vice President of Marketing, Aftermarket and International Sales. “The NTP-Stag Expo is an important event for us to showcase Airxcel’s portfolio of brands, and we’re honored to partner with NTP-Stag to be the title sponsor.”
On Monday evening, attendees will have the opportunity to meet Rudy, the renowned RV resource and face of Dicor Products. Rudy will be at the Airxcel booth, ready to chat with visitors and share his love for RVing, along with insights into the newest innovations from the Airxcel family of brands.
“In an ever-changing market, having key partnerships that stay steady is meaningful. Airxcel’s continued commitment to NTP-Stag and the Expo is an important statement to us and also a demonstrated commitment to the industry that we all care about,” said Bill Rogers, Senior Vice President of NTP-Stag / SeaWide.
About Airxcel, Inc.: Airxcel is the leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of the most critically functional products for the RV industry. Headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, the Airxcel family of brands includes 18 companies with 15 facilities across the U.S. and Europe. Airxcel.com
FRENCH LICK, Ind. – While it is difficult to predict what 2025 will bring – it’s only 15 days into the new year and many dealers have yet to start the show season – but those attending the Meyer Mega Show in French Lick, Ind., expressed optimism about improving conditions. However, the degree of that improvement remains uncertain.
“I think people are just glad that the election is over,” one well-respected industry executive told RVBusiness while standing in his show display. “At the end of the day, most don’t care who won; they want it to be finished and move on with their lives.”
While a single trade show cannot fully predict the future, the overwhelmingly positive outlook of the dealers and vendors with whom RVB spoke, along with the increased show traffic and anticipated orders, paints a bright picture for the RV industry in 2025.
Anne Wyant
“For us, the past year or two has been down, but not as down as it could have been,” commented Anne Wyant, parts manager for Rick’s RV Center. The Joliet, Ill. dealership sells Jayco, StarCraft, Highland Ridge towables and motorized products. “In the first two weeks of this year, we’ve seen a resurgence in traffic and sales. I mean, I have hopes for the coming season, obviously. We’re starting to turn the corner out of that little downtick we had there for a while.”
Despite the dealership’s major shows being weeks away, Wyant remains optimistic. “Today, I’m capitalizing on all the special pricing and promotions, ordering in anticipation of a robust year. I believe we can achieve a 10% increase over last year, a goal I find realistic based on the RV sales I’ve witnessed so far this year.”
Paul Coplen
Paul Coplen, owner of Coplen’s Coleman Camping Center in Fort Wayne, Ind., also sees encouraging signs for the new year. “Our local RV show is in about two or three weeks, so we’re hopeful for a better year than the last. We’ve noticed increased interest this fall and winter, with more people coming in to look at trailers even when the weather’s not good, which is usually a positive sign.
“So, whether that’s due to lower interest rates or just people getting antsy because of cold weather and they want to get out camping, we’ll have a little better feel in about four weeks based on the attendance at the Fort Wayne RV show. But hoping for a very good year, as far as that goes.”
Kelsey Evans
Kelsey Evans, parts manager for Happy Campers RV Sales in Lafayette, Ind., looks forward to 2025 after a tough 2024. “I don’t know if it’s because it was election year. Pretty sure that had a lot to do with it.” Evans noted that online parts sales cut into her business, and to complete better, she is taking advantage of the substantial discounts and favorable terms available at the show.
Vendors, too, are noticing the beginnings of an upward turn in the industry, at least according to comments we heard at the show.
Jeff Hostetler, territory sales manager for Tom Manning & Associates, observed that the recently completed Arrow Distributing Show was well-attended, with dealers having an upbeat attitude. “Sales were brisk, and we were encouraged by the results. Overall, order volumes were up compared to the prior year, with some of our suppliers seeing double the growth.
Jeff Hostetler
“While we don’t see real-time sales numbers at the Mega Show, traffic seems better than in years past, with more first-time attendees—including some major Canadian dealerships—and the attitude is positive.” Hostetler predicts a 7-8% increase in sales for the year, “Although, I’d be very, very happy with any uptick, especially after all the recent challenges.”
Hostetler’s company represents 25 vendors serving multiple segments of the industry.
Matt Clauss
Because of its size and expansive range of products, some might consider Lippert a bellwether. The news here is encouraging.
Matt Clauss, the Director of Sales for Aftermarket Exterior Products at Lippert, remarked that their display has been consistently busy and that dealer sentiment is optimistic. He stated, “Dealers are eager to return to in-person selling and to offer these new products and add-ons to their customers.”
Clauss also mentioned that Lippert’s pricing and programs at this Meyer show are the best they have ever offered. He noted that dealers are receiving “a heck of a deal,” which positions them for substantial profits.
Among the Lippert products receiving significant attention, Clauss highlighted several key items: the new camping chairs featuring heated seats and backs, an affordable pop-up gazebo, the Furrion Chill Cube 18K air conditioner, and the On-The-Go Ladder. According to Clauss, all these products are designed to enhance dealers’ profitability through aftermarket sales.
Pictured is a 1924 REO, which was on display at the Prevost exhibit. This unit is a precursor to what would become the Prevost chassis.
TAMPA, Fla. – Cautious optimism would be the best way to describe the mood so far at this year’s Florida RV SuperShow, sponsored by the Florida RV Trade Association.
As North America’s largest retail RV show, Tampa has long been understood to be a barometer for industry activity in the upcoming model year.
On Wednesday – the first day when consumers were welcomed – crowd sizes were not record-breaking, but Dave Kelly FRVTA executive director and show director, said “I was pretty happy with the crowd, actually, I mean the public parking lot was pretty full and we’re hearing people were happy with the first-day results. We’d like more, but it wasn’t a horrible day for dealers and we’re hearing they’re pretty happy with what they got, but it’s not like they’ve had in the past.”
Total attendance was just over 17,000, a slight 2% decline over; last year’s tally of 18,111.
Dave Kelly at a previous Florida RV SuperShow. (RVB file photo)
He said overcast conditions sometimes affect attendance because as consumers wake and see clouds, they’re concerned about the potential for rain.
Another factor affecting opening-day attendance, he pointed out, was that for the second year, the senior citizen discount was extended to cover Wednesday through Friday. Previously, the discount was only offered on Wednesday.
This, he said, tends to spread out senior citizen visits over all three days.
But, “Overall, I think everybody was pretty happy with yesterday,” Kelly said.
John Ferrando, Blue Compass founder, president and CEO, visited the Foretravel display on Wednesday.
Dealerships were engaging with consumers on opening day and deals were being written, and while it was a bit too early to draw any conclusions, John Ferrando, Blue Compass RV Founder, CEO and President exuded a sense of confidence in his company’s prospects.
“We’re excited,” he said Wednesday afternoon. “It’s a great way to kick off the year. We brought the largest team we’ve ever had, and probably the best talent from across our store network.”
That network includes 107 stores in 33 states with more than 15,000 units in inventory.
“We got a great product lineup across the board,” Ferrando added. “Airstream, Jayco, Forest River, Alliance, ForeTravel, Thor, Geneva. It’s really a phenomenal lineup of great products, and we are well positioned for a record show.”
Casey Tubman, president of Newmar, the Nappanee-Ind.-based builder of luxury motorhomes, said he believes the current market is “on the verge of what’s going to be positive.”
He said many people in the in the industry feel the same and pointed to some signs to support that conclusion.
Casey Tubman
“October’s retails came back out, revised as positive. November was negative, but we believe the revised will come back slightly positive,” he said. “That’s kind of the start of momentum. This show will be the signal for the year that says, ‘How well are we going to do?’ Presidential election’s over, so that helps. Interest rates have been already impacted a couple times. That just gets people feeling better. Even if it’s not changing a ton in the bottom line, it gets them feeling better about buying. So, I think we feel pretty good about what’s coming.”
He noted that the high-end luxury segment is, “a little bit insulated, so we feel good.”
He also added that on the product side, Newmar was showing it’s all-new smaller Super C model, the Grand Star which debuted at the Elkhart Open House in September.
“We’re showing it to the public for the first time, but we showed it to the dealers back at open house, and we’ve had real positive reactions. Lots of orders came in for it. So we’re expecting those to do real well. People have talked to different folks, our sales team, myself and others, saying, ‘Oh, I’m coming to see the Grand Star.’ We sold a couple pieces already this morning, that (Grand Star) might’ve been one of them. So we’re starting out good.”
Tubman, who came to Newmar just as the COVID boom was winding down, noted that the average age of RVers since then has fallen from the 50s to the 30s.
Alliance RV Co-Founder Coley Brady poses with an Alliance Delta travel trailer on display at the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa.
“Now, that’s going to be more probably the entry-level product,” he explained. “But in general, we’re seeing our customer as well come down in age. So again, each generation’s going to be different, but what we know is the younger generation now is about the environment, sustainability, getting out into the outdoors. There’s study after study that says it’s better for your health. They’re all listening to that, right? That’s that generation. And we’re seeing that come into play in our business as well.”
Coley Brady, co-founder of Elkhart-Ind. towable manufacturer Alliance RV said his firm has adjusted to current market conditions and believes those adjustments will be borne out in the coming market year.
“The biggest thing is meeting the demand now, for what dealers and customers are going to want. And you’re seeing a shift, too, in the product,” he said. “There are some brands that are emerging, and I feel like we’re one of those emerging brands. And there are other companies that are emerging, too, but it feels pretty good right now, with where we’re at. I feel good. I mean, I think the RVIA projection is maybe a 10-ish percent increase overall as far as shipments go, and retail probably a similar number. And our goal and our plan is to do more than that and grow market share,” he said.
Ladder. According to Clauss, all these products are designed to enhance dealers’ profitability through aftermarket sales.
