For months, Trump kept businesses and nations across the globe largely in the dark on his tariff plans that revolve around what he refers to as “reciprocal tariffs.” But on April 2, he’s promised to answer at least some of their burning questions.
But Wednesday likely won’t relieve businesses that have been craving certainty since Trump’s November victory. Rather, it’ll open a whole new can of worms as countries respond to new tariffs with countermeasures on American goods, setting the stage for a new phase of negotiations that could escalate an already bitter trade war.
Although Trump told reporters on Monday night that he “settled” on a tariff plan, White House advisers were still presenting options to him on Tuesday, just hours ahead of his self-imposed deadline, CNN reported.
Among the plans being considered were customizing tariff rates for each US trading partner, levying tariffs on certain countries but not others or imposing a flat rate as high as 20% on all imports. One White House official told CNN that they didn’t believe Trump would arrive at a decision until the hours before Wednesday’s 4 pm ET announcement ceremony at the Rose Garden.
What Trump ultimately decides to announce on tariffs will be “effective immediately,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday. That is logistically dubious, but if that is the case, other nations would have little time to negotiate and could respond by immediately imposing countermeasures such as retaliatory tariffs.
EDITOR’S NOTE: In the video below, Jason Epperson of RV Miles offers his update on the pending “Liberation Day” tariffs as well as a rundown of other RV industry news of note.
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – With the Minnesota Twins Home Opener just around the corner, Winnebago Industries (NYSE: WGO), a leading manufacturer of outdoor recreation products, and “Official Outdoor Adventure Partner” of the Twins, today announced the launch of the “Hit It To Win It” sweepstakes, where a fan could win an RV or boat from Winnebago Industries’ portfolio of premium brands.
“Winnebago Industries is excited to again partner with the Minnesota Twins to bring our shared passion for the outdoors to fans at Target Field and across Twins Territory,” said Amber Holm, Winnebago Industries’ chief marketing officer. “The “Hit it To Win It” sweepstakes offers fans a chance to win a premium RV or boat of their choice so they can enjoy the many benefits of the outdoors and create amazing memories at the lake or campsite this summer.”
Enter the ‘Hit It To Win It’ Sweepstakes Now
If a Minnesota Twins player homerun hits the Winnebago brand RV parked in right field “on the fly” (off the bat and to the RV without touching the ground) during a 2025 regular season home game at Target Field, one lucky fan will be drawn to win an outdoor recreational vehicle or boat of their choice from Winnebago Industries, up to $200,000 in MSRP value.
Winnebago Industries manufactures outdoor recreation vehicles under the Winnebago, Grand Design RV, Newmar, Chris-Craft and Barletta Boats brands. The company builds high quality motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheel products, powerboats, pontoons, commercial community outreach vehicles, and battery solutions for outdoor mobility products.
To enter, fans can visit the area inside Gate 34 of Target Field to connect with a Winnebago Industries brand ambassador, scan the QR code on the stadium RV, or visit www.hitittowinit.comand complete the entry form. The 2025 Home Opener is set for this Thursday, April 3, when the Twins host the Houston Astros at 3:10 p.m. CT.
‘The Dock’ presented by Winnebago Industries Back for Second Season
Nothing says Minnesota summer like boating on one of the 10,000 beautiful lakes or many rivers across the state. For the second year, Winnebago Industries will bring the comfort and camaraderie of Chris-Craft and Barletta Boats to Target Field through “The Dock.” Located in section 137, the unique seating option, inspired by the bow of a boat, provides up to 12 fans with comfortable captain’s chairs and boating seats and an incredible view of the field. Fans who purchase tickets to sit in “The Dock” will have access to lakeside-themed food and beverage with tickets pre-loaded with $30 food and beverage credit.
“We are thrilled to have Winnebago Industries back as a valued partner for a second year and are delighted to continue to offer a premium Target Field seating option with “The Dock”, as it marries two of Minnesotan’s favorite summer activities – baseball and boating,” said Twins Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Sean Moore. “Twins fans love the one-of-a-kind seating area, as it delivers a uniquely memorable experience to the ballpark.”
“The Dock” presented by Winnebago Industries will be available all season long. To purchase tickets, visit www.twins.com or by calling 1-800-33-TWINS.
The “Hit It To Win It” sweepstakes began today and will run through September 21, 2025 or earlier if a homerun hits the RV “on the fly”. The sweepstakes is open only to legal residents of Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Iowa who are at least 18 years of age. For more information about the sweepstakes, including registration and official rules, visit www.hitittowinit.com. No purchase is necessary to enter or win.
Schattdecor, a global leader in surface design and decor solutions, proudly announces the appointment of Bastian Kastner as Director of Strategic Accounts for North America. This strategic role highlights Schattdecor’s dedication to enhancing customer service in the finished surfaces industry.
Bastian Kastner
With over a decade of experience in the North American surfaces market, Bastian Kastner will concentrate on fostering and enhancing long-term relationships with strategic stakeholders and executives. His extensive background in technical and business roles within Schattdecor will be crucial in driving mutual growth and achieving exceptional customer satisfaction.This role includes developing strong customer relationships, cultivating and growing key accounts, and identifying new business opportunities.
Lance Millican will continue to serve as the North American Sales Manager for Finished Surfaces, overseeing the daily activities of the Finished Surfaces sales team to ensure smooth operations and reliable service. His commitment to high standards and operational excellence has been key to our success, and we are confident that his leadership will continue to drive our growth and strengthen our market position.
“Bastian’s many years of experience with Schattdecor in North America is a tremendous asset as we deepen customer relationships and drive innovation from higher levels of management,” said Lance. “I look forward to continuing to collaborate with him in this new role as we expand Schattdecor’s presence, while maintaining top-tier support in the finished surfaces market.”
Bastian adds, “I’m humble and highly motivated to step into this new role. My two years as Director of Operations in Lexington provided me with invaluable insight into our processes, people, and the needs of our customers. That experience has prepared me to build deeper, long-lasting relationships with our key customers and partners, ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality, sustainable solutions.”
David Sheehan, CEO of Schattdecor, said, “I am confident that Bastian’s new role will accelerate our growth and fortify Schattdecor’s market position. His expertise, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence are precisely what we need to elevate our customer relationships. With his profound understanding of our operations and customer needs, I am certain he will drive innovation and create lasting value for our partners.”
The Erwin Hymer Group (EHG) has announced that it is expanding its portfolio in the summer of 2025 with the launch of a new motorhome and campervan brand called CORIGON, according to a report by AboutCampBtoB.com, a trade media firm that covers the overseas RV industry.
The brand is aimed at new motorhome buyers and will sit in the lower price segment of the EHG accordingly. It will consist of semi-integrated motorhomes and campervans that will combine proven quality with a particularly attractive price-performance ratio.
The name of the brand – CORIGON – is made up of the two English words “core” and “go”, which EHG says makes the brand stand out “for a pragmatic but modern approach: maximum functionality, proven layouts and reliable standards for carefree travelling.”
The brand will initially launch in Germany and France in 2025. More information is expected to be revealed soon.
In a separate report by promobil.com, it was said that Corigon campers are primarily aimed at price-conscious campers looking for a reliable and functional motorhome. The name Corigon is intended to encapsulate what the new brand stands for: a pragmatic, modern approach to RV travel. The focus is on functional floor plans, proven technology, and uncomplicated features – a solid foundation for a beginner-friendly camper.
The new brand is intended to complement the existing portfolio without replacing the previous, more affordable brands such as Etrusco, Sunlight, and Carado, which have become increasingly expensive in recent years. Corigon is intended to appeal to a target group that has previously found few options in the EHG premium segment.
With Corigon, the Erwin Hymer Group is specifically targeting the lower price segment – without, according to the company, sacrificing quality. The new brand is intended to appeal to new customer groups who have not previously found what they are looking for in the Hymer portfolio. To achieve this, existing vehicle concepts are being adapted, production synergies are being utilized, and a Europe-wide sales network is being established. The goal is a compelling price-performance ratio that makes it easier to enter the world of motorhomes.
The starting price is expected to be below €60,000 (about $65,000 US). Plans include camper vans and semi-integrated motorhomes based on the Ford Transit and Fiat Ducato. EHG Corigon plans to launch four series and 12 models. These are expected to be presented to the public at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2025.
RecPro today (April 1), introduced the new space-saving RV Basement Expansion Kit.
From RecPro: Experience the eeriness of a basement everywhere you go! This revolutionary new product from RecPro essentially doubles the overall size of your RV by adding a new basement expansion. No building permits required.* Simply cut a small entrance hole in the floor or wall of your RV. Line the hole with butyl tape, then place the basement door into the hole you’ve cut. Allow to cure for 1-2 hours before attempting to enter your new basement.
FAIRFAX, Va. – The National RV Dealers Association (RVDA) announced in a press release that partnership, sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are now available for the premier industry event, the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, taking place at Paris Las Vegas, November 10-14. Click here for more information.
The prospectus includes a full listing of sponsorships, partnerships, and Vendor Training +Plus opportunities, plus booth pricing, for the 2025 event.
Vendors can choose among unique sponsorship and partnership opportunities that allow companies to connect with top RV dealers in the U.S. and Canada and spotlight their brand. Partners and sponsors will be granted exclusive access to prime exhibit space, ensuring high visibility and direct engagement with attendees
In 2024, the Convention/Expo brought together more than 1,700 industry representatives and attendees representing nearly 900 dealership locations. For more information on exhibiting and to view the 2025 exhibitor prospectus, click here.
Vendors also have the option of conducting popular live and virtual Vendor Training +Plus (VTP) sessions. VTP sessions allow companies to present their own content and provide attendees with in-depth product or service information, educational demos, or case studies, for an additional charge.
“The RVDA Convention/Expo provides partners, sponsors, and exhibitors with outstanding opportunities to place their products and services in front the leading RV dealers throughout North America,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia.
In addition to promotional and networking opportunities available throughout the week at Paris, a virtual booth component offers an affordable way for exhibitors to digitally connect with RV dealers. The flexible design includes video, email, appointment scheduling, and live chat, and offers brochures and other promotional materials for direct download. Exhibiting companies will be searchable by company name, product/service category, and keywords.
Analytics available through the virtual platform can help grow a company’s leads database, easily follow up with individuals through appointments, monitor booth activity, and track visitor information outside of designated expo hours. To access the exhibitor prospectus,click here. For more information contact Julie Newhouse at [email protected].
The RV Dealers Convention/Expo is presented by RVDA, RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center. Follow the convention on social media using #RVDAConEx and visit www.rvda.org/convention to register and for regular updates.
CASTLE HAYNE, N.C. – Longtime Wilmington RV dealer Rex & Sons RV hosted a Great Grand Opening Celebration on March 22 at its new location in Castle Hayne, N.C., filled with family, friends, colleagues, customers and community supporters, according to a release. The family-owned and operated business moved from its former location on South College Road in Wilmington, N.C., to a new, larger facility in Castle Hayne in August 2024.
The lively event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by distinguished guests Congressman David Rouzer, Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo, New Hanover Sheriff Edward McMahon, New Hanover County Commissioner LeAnn Pierce, and North Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce President Dana Fisher.
Operations Manager Travis Creech said the new 17,000-square-foot facility at 5625 Barbados Blvd., just off of Interstate 40, has allowed Rex & Sons RV to grow its offerings across the board.
“We were able to expand in all the areas, not just sales, new and used, but also in service and in parts,” Travis Creech said.
The new facility is more than double the size of the former 8,000-square-foot dealership, which was located on just over an acre of land at 1546 S. College Road. The new Castle Hayne facility sits on 7 acres. Creech said the additional space has allowed the dealership to operate more efficiently.
Rex & Sons RV was founded in 1997 by Travis’ dad, Rex, and operated at the South College Road location for 18 years. Travis Creech said they identified the property, located just off Interstate 40, for the new facility in 2020. Property records show that Rex and Peggy Creech purchased the site in June 2023 for $852,000. Today, Rex & Sons RV employs 15 people. Travis’ brother, Jonathan, serves as the dealership’s general manager.
“My dad, Rex, and my brother, Jonathan, and myself, it’s kind of been a lifelong dream to have a professional, efficient RV dealership ever since we’ve been in the industry,” Travis Creech said.
Last year, Cape Fear Custom RV Service joined Rex & Sons RV, expanding its service offerings. The new Castle Hayne facility has eight service bays along with an indoor showroom and a parts and accessories department. The expanded building also gives them the space to hold seminars for RV enthusiasts and community events, Travis Creech said.
Travis Creech also expressed excitement for the future of Rex & Sons RV, sharing his appreciation for the overwhelming community support. The Grand Opening drew a remarkable crowd, providing a day of festivities that had something for everyone. Attendees enjoyed delicious food from local food trucks, live entertainment, and the opportunity to explore nearby campgrounds. Free seminars conducted by industry professionals offered valuable insights, and manufacturers’ representatives showcased innovative RV options.
Local vendors enriched the event with their unique displays, creating a vibrant atmosphere for RV enthusiasts and newcomers alike. “We are thrilled to see such overwhelming support from the community and industry professionals. This event marks an exciting chapter for Rex & Sons RV,” said Travis Creech.
Rex & Sons RV extends heartfelt gratitude to all the attendees, supporters, and participants who made the event an extraordinary success.
For more information on Rex & Sons RV’s new location and offerings, visit the new location just outside of Wilmington, NC on I-40 Exit 414 5625 Barbados Blvd. Castle Hayne, NC 28429 or visit their website www.rexandsonsrvs.com.
In a Tuesday (April 1) update to its members, the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA) took the bull by the horns, so to speak, in updating its members regarding the U.S.-imposed tariffs and corresponding Canadian counter-tariffs that are due to go into effect tomorrow morning.
“As you know, tariffs have already been imposed by President Trump’s administration on Canadian aluminum, steel, and other products, and a new and broader round of tariffs is scheduled for tomorrow on all goods entering the United States, including from Canada,” states CRVA’s bulletin to its membership. “As a result of this threat, the Government of Canada had previously announced it would implement retaliatory measures on approximately $125B on certain products imported into Canada from the United States at 25% to counter the tariffs on exported Canadian goods.
“As of this morning, Canada is still including Recreational Vehicles imported into Canada from the United States in the next phase of these counter-tariffs.”
And all things considered, the prospects for upcoming business aren’t particularly positive, the bulletin notes, with both CRVA and the RVDA of Canada having received indications that many dealers will choose to delay or cancel orders of U.S.-built RVs until the tariff is removed, creating economic and financial consequences for both Canadian and U.S. manufacturers and suppliers.
“The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association has been actively engaging with the Canadian and United States governments to express our industry’s deep concerns over the inclusion of recreational vehicles in any tariff measures,” according to CRVA. “We have emphasized to both administrations that the RV industry is deeply integrated across North America, and that punitive trade measures will create unnecessary disruption to a sector that supports tens of thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to both economies.
“Our message has been clear and consistent: Recreational vehicles and their components must be protected under free trade and remain exempt from any tariffs. Imposing such measures would have a severe financial impact on manufacturers, dealers, and consumers in both the United States and Canada, disrupting a highly integrated and interdependent industry.”
CRVA reports that it has been working in “close coordination” with leading industry trade groups including the RV Industry Association (RVIA), RVDA of Canada and Indiana-based RV builders to advocate for a free and fair trade policy, a key component of which is an essential RV trade imbalance between the two countries with approximately 30,000 to 40,000 U.S.-made RVs imported annually into Canada while only about 1,750 to 2,000 Canadian-made RVs are exported to the U.S. each year.
EDITOR’S NOTE: As part of Elkhart, Ind.-based Lippert Components Inc.’s 2024 financial report – published March 28 – company President and CEO Jason Lippert offered the following address to shareholders under the heading “Consistent Execution, Operational Discipline and Diversified Growth Drove Strong Cash Generation.”
Jason Lippert
“The market never stands still, and 2024 brought its share of surprises — but Lippert tackled them with agility and efficiency, enabling us to enter 2025 even stronger. Our RV and marine businesses showed resilience, and we continued to leverage our strengths in building products, international markets and the aftermarket to sustain revenues near prior-year levels despite a challenging environment, while effectively expanding margins. Our profitability improvement was bolstered by our increased focus on operational efficiency, which we believe has further positioned us to both organically reach our $5 billion revenue target in 2027 and reclaim double-digit margins.
“RV shipments remained below historical levels and consumers continued to favor smaller single axle trailers due, in part, to temporary macroeconomic conditions, including interest rate sensitivity and affordability trends. Despite this, Lippert increased market share and organic content across our top five RV OEM product categories — appliances, awnings, chassis, furniture, and windows — through our continued focus on innovation. From next-generation suspension systems to top- tier window innovations, we are redefining what it means to be an industry leader.
“Our CURT Touring Coil Suspension (TCS) is rapidly securing OEM adoption with those customers raving about its superior ride quality; our Lippert Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is helping to redefine safety standards in towables; and our Furrion Chill Cube, one of the quietest and most powerful air conditioners in its class, is attracting strong interest from OEMs and consumers.
“We also expanded our RV content offerings with premium 4K Windows and glass patio systems that certain OEMs, including Brinkley RV, have already integrated into high-end models.
“Marine volumes remained subdued as dealers worked through elevated inventory levels, and we felt that on the production side. Dealers, however, are increasingly optimistic that retail sales will rebound in the second half of 2025 as consumer confidence improves and inventory normalizes. With inventory levels more balanced and demand expected to rebound—historically a swift recovery — we believe we are well-positioned with the right products and a proven track record to capitalize on the recovery when it occurs.
“Beyond RV and Marine, innovations drove meaningful growth across our diverse end markets. In the automotive aftermarket, our CURT brand, acquired in 2019, delivered 7% organic growth during the year, highlighting our ability to execute meaningful acquisitions that ultimately contribute to long-term success. Building products also fueled stability during the year, supported by notable traction in residential windows that contributed $20 million in growth, as more residential distributors and builders recognize the value of our entry-level vinyl window products.
“Our transportation and utility trailer business also gained momentum, with industry leaders like PJ Trailers and Big Tex adopting our ABS and TCS systems. Additionally, we continue to capture new opportunities in the on-highway and off-highway transportation markets by providing glass and window solutions for school buses, transit, and off-road vehicles.
Collectively, these markets represent significant addressable opportunities and we are applying our proven OEM playbook to help drive growth in these high-potential areas.
“We have seen that our strength across adjacent markets boosts margins and provides counter- cyclical benefits that balance profitability across economic cycles. This augments the decisive actions we took in 2024 to improve our cost structure and drive efficiency. We increased our EBITDA margin by 250 basis points, as we delivered $28 million in non-material cost savings, with even more reductions planned for 2025. Factory consolidations, strategic sourcing initiatives, and investments in automation have also lowered fixed costs and strengthened our ability to scale efficiently as demand rebounds. At the same time, lower steel prices helped gross margins, and we expect further pricing levers to help us partially offset potential tariff headwinds in 2025. We believe these initiatives, combined with disciplined cost control, should drive 25% incremental margin on new revenue in 2025, accelerating our path back to double-digit operating margin.
“Our disciplined execution is not just strengthening margin, it is also driving long- term value creation for shareholders. Back in November, we announced a 10% increase in our quarterly dividend to $1.15 per share, reflecting our confidence in Lippert’s financial strength and our dedication to delivering shareholder value. Our strong execution and operational discipline produced $370 million in operating cash flow for the full year, reduced net debt by $89 million, and lowered our net debt to EBITDA ratio to less than 2.0x, increasing our flexibility to pursue strategic growth opportunities, including M&A. We have successfully completed 70+ acquisitions over the past two decades, each expanding our product portfolio.
“Beyond financial performance, we are committed to operating responsibly and sustainably to benefit our shareholders, team members, customers, and communities.
“In 2024, we published our third year of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions data, expanded resource and waste monitoring, and invested in energy-efficient manufacturing. This focus on transparency and sustainable growth earned us a spot on Newsweek’s 2025 list of America’s Most Responsible Companies. We also continued to foster a purpose-driven culture that empowers team members and supports communities, as we surpassed our 100,000-hour volunteer goal and contributed to numerous local causes.
“Heading into 2025, we believe our resilient business model and unwavering focus on innovation put us in a great position to capitalize on the opportunities ahead.
“Historically, the RV industry rebounds quickly, often doubling shipments within 3 to 5 years following economic downturns. In the interim, we are confident in our ability to gain market share, return to 3-5% organic growth in content per towable unit, organically reach our $5 billion revenue target in 2027, and deliver sustainable value for shareholders.
“None of this progress would be possible without our incredible team members, whose passion and dedication power our success. As we continue to push boundaries, we remain grateful to our customers, partners, and shareholders for their trust and support—and we look forward to delivering even more in the years ahead.
Jason D. Lippert President and Chief Executive Officer
