Month: February 2025

NAPPANEE, Ind. – GEN-Y Hitch, a leader in innovative towing products and solutions, announced that despite the rising tariffs and increased overseas production costs, their prices and lead times will not be increasing in the near future. As part of its ongoing commitment to provide American-made, high-quality products at competitive prices, GEN-Y continues to prioritize the needs of their valued customers, according to a release.

The global supply chain challenges and tariffs have led to cost increases across many industries. However, GEN-Y Hitch remains steadfast in their decision to keep prices stable, ensuring customers, distributors and dealers continue to receive the best value for top-tier products, the release continued.

“GEN-Y Hitch is dedicated to producing towing products in the USA with the highest standards of craftsmanship, innovation, and durability,” said Luke Stump, director of Wholesale at GEN-Y Hitch. “We understand that our customers rely on us for products they can trust, and we’re proud to keep that trust by absorbing the increases in manufacturing costs. Our focus remains on providing the best American-made products at the most competitive prices possible.”

GEN-Y Hitch products are designed and manufactured in the USA utilizing North American steel, where every item meets the stringent standards for quality and performance.

The post GEN-Y Hitch Reaffirms Commitment to Affordable Products first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Editor’s Note: In response to tariffs proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, The RV Dealers Association of Canada (RVDA) is offering an advocacy kit to is members in addition to its advocacy work at the federal government level. Following is an email aimed at its members outlining the RVDA’s efforts.

At the RVDA of Canada, we remain committed to advocating for policies that protect and support our industry. As you may be aware, there is a potential threat of tariffs on RV imports that could significantly impact our businesses and consumers. In response, we have developed a Member Tariff Advocacy Kit to help you engage with policymakers and stakeholders on this critical issue.

This comprehensive document is designed to help you become an effective advocate for addressing the pending retaliatory tariff situation in Canada through grassroots advocacy. We hope it provides you with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration you need to become a powerful advocate for our RV industry. Remember, every voice matters, and together, we can make a difference.

This kit is designed to provide you with the tools needed to effectively communicate the impact of tariffs on your dealership and the broader RV industry. 

Included in the kit, you will find:

• RV Industry Webinar on Tariff implication – In case you missed it, watch the webinar held on February 6th. 

• Key Messages and Talking Points – Concise, impactful messaging to use when speaking with government officials, media, and customers. 

• Briefing Letter sent by RVDA – An overview of the potential tariff issue, its implications for our industry, as presented to government. 

• Template Letters – 2 Pre-drafted letters that you can personalize and send to your local Member of Parliament, and government policymakers. 

• Draft Template for Remission Request – The government will launch a remission process. Remission is the cancellation of Crown debt and can be granted under various statutory authorities. Please start gathering information now so that you are ready when the remission process begins. 

• Economic Impact Report – Data and insights on how tariffs could affect RV affordability, jobs, and the overall economy. 

• Guidance on Meeting with Elected Officials – Best practices for scheduling and conducting effective meetings with MPs and decision-makers. 

The Tariff Would Devastate Canadian RV Dealerships

• 95% of RVs sold in Canada are manufactured in the U.S., leaving no viable domestic alternatives.
• The tariff would not harm U.S. manufacturers; instead, they would shift supply to U.S. dealers.
• Canadian dealerships would suffer from reduced inventory, increased costs, and financial hardship.

Significant Economic Impact on Jobs and Communities

• The RV industry supports 141,400 jobs and contributes $16.2 billion in added economic value.
• The industry generates billions in tourism spending and government revenue.
• Higher costs due to the tariff would lead to job losses and economic strain in local communities.

Increased Costs for Consumers and Reduced Affordability

• A 25% tariff would make RV ownership unaffordable for many middle-class families and retirees.
• Consumers would face significantly higher prices or be forced into an inflated used RV market.
• The tariff discourages RVing, harming the broader tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.

Cash Flow and Financial Burden on Dealerships

• Dealers must pay the tariff upfront at the border, creating severe cash flow challenges.
• With an already weakened Canadian dollar, this additional cost could put many dealerships at risk of closure.
• Reduced demand and rising costs would disrupt business sustainability and long-term growth.

The RV Industry Has No Immediate Alternative to U.S. Supply

• Unlike other industries, there is no substitute for U.S.-manufactured RVs.
• If the tariff is implemented, Canadian dealers will struggle with limited inventory and reduced consumer options.
• The lack of supply would push consumers toward other markets, harming Canadian businesses.

Request to Exempt RVs from Tariffs

• The government should exempt RVs from the list of targeted products.
• Alternative trade strategies should be explored that do not unfairly impact a single industry.
• Engaging with industry stakeholders to find balanced solutions is critical.

Willingness to Discuss Further

• Canadian RV dealers are eager to share real-world insights into the impact of this tariff.
• Open dialogue with policymakers can help develop fair trade policies that protect Canadian businesses and consumers.
• Dealers welcome the opportunity to discuss potential solutions and alternatives.

For further discussion, please contact the RVDA of Canada.

The post RVDA of Canada Issues Advocacy Kit & Tariff Action Plan first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is taking additional action to upset the world trade system, with plans to sign an order as soon as Wednesday that would require that U.S. tariffs on imports match the tax rates charged by other countries, according to an Associated Press report.

“It’s time to be reciprocal,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. “You’ll be hearing that word a lot. Reciprocal. If they charge us, we charge them.”

The president had suggested that the order would come on Tuesday or Wednesday. But when Tuesday passed without the tariffs being officially announced, Trump was asked if he would sign the order on Wednesday and Trump answered: “We’ll see what happens.”

As Trump has unleashed a series of tariffs after being in power for less than a month, he has fully taken ownership of the path of the U.S. economy. It’s a bet that his economic ideas can eventually deliver meaningful results for voters, even if by Trump’s own admission the import taxes could involve some financial pain in the form of inflation and economic disruptions. For all of Trump’s talk, the impact will likely depend on the details of the tariffs and how other nations respond.

A reciprocal tariffs order could amount to a substantial tax hike to be shouldered largely by U.S. consumers and businesses as the Census Bureau reported that the country had total imports of $4.1 trillion last year. The tariffs could set off retaliatory measures by trading partners that could roil growth around the globe and reset where the United States stands with allies and rivals alike.

Click here to read the full Associated Press report.

The post Trump Set to Impose ‘Reciprocal’ Tariffs on Trade Partners first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

GOSHEN, Ind. – Keystone RV announced that Cougar has once again earned the title of the No. 1-selling fifth-wheel in North America, according to Statistical Surveys Inc., the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based subsidiary of Trader Interactive that monitors retail and consumer data for the RV industry.

This achievement reflects Cougar’s unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction in the RV industry, according to a release from the THOR Industries subsidiary.

“For over 25 years, Keystone RV has set the benchmark for innovation and quality across the towable RV market, and this recognition reinforces our dedication to delivering exceptional products and experiences for our owners,” said Jeff Runels, President & CEO of Keystone RV.

A leader in the fifth-wheel segment, Cougar continues to evolve with modern floorplans, cutting- edge technology, and industry-leading construction—all designed to meet the needs of today’s RVers.

“Cougar’s success comes from listening to our owners and designing RVs that fit their lifestyle,” said Matt Christensen, General Manager. “This achievement is a testament to the entire Cougar team’s commitment to excellence.”

“Cougar has built a strong reputation for quality, innovation, and features that enhance the camping experience,” added Scott Taylor, Product Manager. “Reaching the top spot again is an exciting milestone, and we look forward to continuing to raise the bar.”

About Keystone RV Company

An operating company of THOR Industries, Keystone RV Company is the #1 manufacturer of towable RVs in North America. Focused on helping owners Camp Better, Keystone offers a diverse lineup, including travel trailers, luxury fifth wheels, and toy haulers. With headquarters in Goshen, Indiana, and a vast dealer network, Keystone continues to lead the industry in innovation and customer support. For more information, visit keystonerv.com.

The post Keystone Cougar: No. 1 Fifth-Wheel Based on Retail Sales first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FAIRFAX, Va. – The 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo is set for Nov. 10-14 at Paris Las Vegas.

Presented by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the annual RVDA Convention/Expo brings together dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and RV industry business partners for the premier dealer education and networking event of the year.

The education program will provide segmented content based on dealership size, management structure, and revenue in addition to focusing on things dealers have in common.

The RVDA Convention/Expo Committee and staff are working to bring dealers relevant educational content. In addition, the Convention/Expo will feature:

• Exhibitor-led Vendor Training +Plus sessions
• Dealer-manufacturer Partners of Progress meetings
• Exclusive networking opportunities

Dealers will be notified when registration opens in several weeks. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website and social media using #RVDAConEx.

Companies interested in partnership, sponsorship, exhibiting, and Vendor Training +Plus opportunities can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or send an email to jnewhouse@rvda.org.

The post Save the Date: ’25 RV Dealers Convention/Expo is Nov. 10-14 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Today, Blue Compass RV  and Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee partnered up to grant the ultimate outdoor experience for one lucky deserving Wish child in Tennessee, according to a release.

After showing up to the Blue Compass RV Nashville location, Kelsey, alongside her family, were excited to take delivery of a brand new, 2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX Travel Trailer. Looking to hit the road and explore with her family, Kelsey’s new RV is ideal for easy access to outdoor adventure while providing the comfort and amenities one would need to feel close to home.

Blue Compass RV is proud to lean into its philanthropic efforts in 2025 by partnering with likeminded organizations to help those in need. Blue Compass RV has sold over 200,000 RVs in its 6-year history, becoming the fastest RV company to ever hit that mark, a proud milestone for the Blue Compass RV team. The 2025 Jayco Jay Flight SLX Travel Trailer, was donated by Blue Compass RV, in partnership with American RV manufacturer Jayco.

“Giving back is a huge part of who we are at Blue Compass RV, and we are excited to team up with the Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee chapter and Jayco to help grant these wishes for children and families who need it most,” said Jon Ferrando, founder, CEO, and president of Blue Compass RV.  “’RVs are a perfect way for families to spend time together, travel seamlessly and create lasting memories, and we are excited to continue fulfilling these wishes in the future.”

Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee was founded in 2000 as a chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. The organization grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses, like Kelsey.

“Because of the generosity of Blue Compass RV and Jayco, Kelsey’s wish to explore the outdoors with her family is coming true,” said Beth Torres, president and CEO of Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee. “This generous gift will bring Kelsey and her family many joyous experiences and memories for years to come. We are so grateful for partners, like Blue Compass RV and Jayco, who support the life-changing work of Make-A-Wish.”

About Blue Compass RV

Blue Compass RV is the fastest growing RV retail company in the United States over the past five years, with over 100 locations in 33 states. Our stores across America offer an incredible selection of new and used RVs, including the best lineup of premium new brands. Our mission is to provide an exceptional sales, service, and RV ownership experience for our customers.

Blue Compass RV has been named the No. 1 Airstream dealer in the world for five consecutive years, with a record setting 11 Airstream stores achieving the prestigious “Five Rivet” status. Blue Compass RV’s flagship Motor Home Specialist store has been the leading motorhome dealer in the U.S. for 11 consecutive years.

Blue Compass has experienced exponential growth since its founding in 2018, for which it was named to the 2024 Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list, as well as South Florida Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Private Companies list for four consecutive years.

About Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee

Together with its community of support, Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee grants wishes in 38 counties and has granted over 2,000 wishes since its founding in 2000. Nationally, Make-A-Wish grants a wish every 34 minutes and has granted more than 500,000 wishes in the United States since its inception in 1980.  For more information about Make-A-Wish Middle Tennessee, visit wish.org/midtn.

The post Blue Compass RV, Make-A-Wish Fulfill Child’s Outdoor Wish first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Winnebago and Kenect are partnering for a webinar titled “Drive Leads, Communication, Efficiency, and Online Reviews with Texting.” The webinar is scheduled for 2 p.m., Wednesday (Feb. 12).

Webinar participants will learn:

• Maximize Engagement: Discover how Kenect texting can significantly boost your web leads and enhance customer interaction in both sales and service.
• Drive Positive Reviews: Learn strategies to triple your Google reviews, leveraging the power of SMS and review requests and review responses.
• Drive Organic Google SEO Traffic to Your Website: Kenect will respond to all of your reviews for you, saving you time and increasing your search engine optimization on Google and other social media platforms.
• Proven Success: See how thousands of dealers are revolutionizing their business with Kenect’s unique tools like Broadcast Messaging and one of their newest features, the content library.

Click here to register for this webinar.

The post Winnebago, Kenect to Conduct Communications Webinar first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is an excerpt of a report by Gordon White for TruckCamperMagazine.com.

It’s been said that a Cybertruck slide-in camper was impossible. Too many angles. Not enough space. Then Robby Rowe of Phoenix Campers took the challenge. Think the Cybertruck can’t be tamed for a slide-in? Think again!

When Tesla unveiled the Cybertruck, it was clear that this was not just another pickup. With its angular, futuristic design, it promised to shake up the world of electric trucks. But for those who love overlanding and off-grid travel, one big question remained: Could you design a slide-in camper for it?

That’s where Robby Rowe and Phoenix Campers stepped in. Known for custom-built truck campers that no other company would dare attempt, Robby saw the Cybertruck’s unique shape not as a roadblock, but as a design challenge.

Click here to read the full report by Gordon White for TruckCamperMagazine.com.

The post Introducing CyberPhoenix: The Cybertruck Slide-In Camper first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

SOUTH BEND, Ind. – In a video feature by CBS affiliate WSBT-TV in South Bend, Ind., RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA) Chair and Denyse Pontius and RVWA President Susan Carpenter share how the RVWA is making a difference for the industry’s growing number of women in the workforce.

Click here to see the video.

The post RVWA: Making the RV Industry a Mobile Home for Women first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Class C motorhomes appeal to all types of campers, from solo travelers to larger families, due to their easy driveability, classic cabover style, the option of slide-outs that add more interior space and their affordability compared to other larger RVs, according to an article at AutoEvolution.com.

These iconic RVs are the epitome of versatility as they offer no limitations in regard to sleeping, storage, and living arrangements, and this has made them a staple in the world of family camping. 

In this piece, we’re going to cast a spotlight on the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Coleman 24CL, a compact Class C RV that offers an ideal balance of comfort, size, and amenities and would make a great travel companion for couples or small families who want versatility and convenience.

This new model is based on a reliable Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis with a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine that outputs 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, promising excellent fuel economy and power for long hauls. Moreover, at just 25 feet 10 inches long, it is compact enough to fit perfectly in a single parking spot, but the well-planned interior is a commodious living space with all the essential amenities you need for a memorable trip.

Click here to see the complete article at AutoEvolution.com.

The post Thor Motor Coach Coleman 24CL Offers Versatile Layout first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.