Tonight’s ‘RVing in New England’ Show Looks at ‘Trump Bump’

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.

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Exodus Rigs RV Combines Tech, Design and Garageability

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.

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Campspot Reveals 1980’s Travel Hotspots Making a Comeback

Acadia National Park

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
Near Arles, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France, 1983. Campers with their car and trailer on a southern French campsite. Also: sports equipment.

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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New Global Managing Director for DexKo Global’s Brink Group

Jasper Hafkamp

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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Lightspeed Announces RV Excellence & Innovation Winners

LAS VEGAS – Lightspeed, a leading provider of RV dealership management software, announced in a press release the winners of its third annual RV Dealership RECT (Repair Event Cycle Time) Excellence Awards. The winners were recognized during the RVDA’s 2024 RV Dealers Convention Spotlight on Excellence Luncheon, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on November 12, 2024.

This year also saw the introduction of a new award category: the RV Innovator of the Year Award, which recognizes an OEM that has significantly advanced innovation through forward-thinking contributions to the RV industry. The purpose of this award is to spotlight companies that are pioneering advancements in RV technology and elevating the customer experience with innovative, cutting-edge solutions. Forest River was selected as the inaugural recipient of the RV Innovator of the Year Award for its work in providing dealers with higher efficiencies through integrations for VIN decoding, unit bulletins/recalls and parts price files.

“Forest River is setting new standards for dealership efficiency,” said Jeremy Johnson, Senior Manager of OEM and Business Development at Lightspeed. “Their progressive approach is helping dealerships streamline operations and deliver faster, more accurate service, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.”

The RECT awards honor the achievements and efforts of five RV dealerships in reducing RECT time and enhancing customer service. These award-winning dealerships, spanning locations across the U.S., represent a diverse range of dealership sizes and RV expertise.

The Lightspeed 2024 RV RECT Excellence Award winners are:

Recipients were chosen based on their significant year-over-year improvements in reducing RECT time—a critical factor in dealership success within the RV industry. Effective RECT management enables dealerships to identify service inefficiencies, enhance operations, and improve overall customer satisfaction. In addition to boosting customer experiences, better RECT management also helps reduce employee burnout by streamlining workloads and processes.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of all our award winners, whose commitment to excellence sets a benchmark for the entire RV industry,” said Brian Provost, President & CEO of Lightspeed.

Lightspeed continues to offer innovative tools to help RV dealers improve service efficiency, ensuring RV customers get back on the road faster. To learn more about Lightspeed, visit https://www.lightspeeddms.com.

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Congress Urged to Pass Bipartisan EXPLORE Act this Year

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Spearheaded by Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), 312 businesses and organizations across the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy, called on Congress in a letter today to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act before the end of the year. The bipartisan EXPLORE Act, which has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives by unanimous consent in April, enjoys unprecedented support from a broad coalition of industry associations, conservation groups, and outdoor businesses.

The EXPLORE Act is a package of more than a dozen bipartisan policy measures designed to boost rural economies, foster community resilience, and enhance Americans’ quality of life by improving access to public lands and recreational opportunities across the nation, all without additional cost to taxpayers. The legislation will streamline processes crucial to the over 5 million American jobs supported by the outdoor sector and ensure more Americans can enjoy the health and environmental benefits of outdoor recreation.

Jessica Wahl Turner

“This is a pivotal moment for outdoor recreation and for all Americans who rely on access to the outdoors for health, enjoyment, and economic vitality and this letter signed by over 300 businesses and organizations underscores the need to pass the EXPLORE Act as soon as possible,” said Jessica Wahl Turner, President of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “The EXPLORE Act represents decades of hard work across the outdoor industry and support from leaders at all levels of government. Passing this bill will not only meet the surging demand for outdoor access but will also protect our public lands for future generations to enjoy.”

The EXPLORE Act addresses crucial issues impacting both urban and rural communities, from modernizing permitting processes for outfitters and guides to expanding green spaces in underserved areas and enhancing long-range trail systems. With provisions that benefit motorized and non-motorized recreation alike, as well as conservationists, sportsmen and women, and economic advocates, the EXPLORE Act represents the most diverse coalition of outdoor stakeholders ever assembled.

The EXPLORE Act is sponsored by House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) and similar legislation, the America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA), is sponsored by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Joe Manchin (I-WV) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-WY).

This bill will revolutionize the outdoor recreation economy, paving the way for its continued growth while fostering equity and inclusivity in outdoor access. The American outdoor recreation community is eager to see the EXPLORE Act signed into law, benefiting the 145 million Americans currently enjoying outdoor activities—and creating new opportunities for millions more.

The text of the letter to Congress signed by over 310 outdoor recreation businesses and organizations is below and a PDF is available here.

Dear Members of Congress: 

As businesses and organizations across the $1.1 trillion outdoor recreation economy, we strongly urge the U.S. Senate to pass the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act by the end of the year. This historic legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives by unanimous consent in April, and an almost identical version passed twice out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee without opposition. The bill is supported by a large and diverse coalition of recreation organizations covering all outdoor activities, including industry associations, conservation groups, local, state and federal officials, and hundreds of American outdoor businesses that span the outdoor recreation economy. 

The EXPLORE Act would support rural economies, communities, and our American quality of life. It streamlines efficiencies and updates processes that are critical to 5 million American jobs and over half of all Americans who get outdoors. This bipartisan legislation would respond to the increased demand for access to the outdoors while also protecting public lands and waters for future use. 

We are counting on you to pass the EXPLORE Act by the end of this Congressional session, representing a landmark achievement for the 118th Congress and garnering widespread support from the most diverse coalition ever brought together in the outdoor sector, including motorized and non-motorized recreation, sportsmen and women, conservationists, economic development advocates, and elected leaders at all levels of government. Importantly, the legislation focuses on not just the 145 million Americans currently benefiting from outdoor recreation, but also the millions without access, and ensures equity so everyone can reap the health, social, and environmental benefits that time outside supports. 

This EXPLORE Act would revolutionize outdoor recreation in all corners of the country and pave the way for the recreation economy’s continued growth. It will transform how Americans access and enjoy their public lands and waters by streamlining permitting processes to ease burdens on outfitters and guides, improving access to recreational opportunities, ensuring access to green spaces in underserved communities, developing and completing long-range trails, and investing in rural communities. 

This bill results from the hard work of sponsors Chairman Joe Manchin, Ranking Member John Barrasso, Chairman Bruce Westerman, and Ranking Member Raúl Grijalva, and many U.S. Senators and Representatives whose bills are included, communities across the nation, outdoor recreation businesses, and stakeholders over many years.  

The American outdoor recreation business, conservation, and user community is eager for the Senate to pass this bipartisan and bicameral legislation. We have waited decades for some of these provisions to become law and without this important legislation, antiquated policies will remain a risk to our industry and those seeking to experience the outdoors. We strongly urge you to pass this comprehensive piece of legislation that meets the growing demand for outdoor access while also protecting public lands and waters for future generations.  

Thank you for your leadership and for supporting a sustainable and growing outdoor recreation economy for the benefit of all Americans. 

About ORR    

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable is the nation’s leading coalition of outdoor recreation associations representing the more than 110,000 outdoor businesses in the recreation economy and the full spectrum of outdoor-related activities. The most recent data from the U.S. Department of Commerce shows that outdoor recreation generated $1.1 trillion and 5 million American jobs in 2022, comprising 2.2% of the nation’s economy and 3.2% of all employees in the country. 

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Battle Born Batteries Now Available at Keystone Automotive

RENO, Nev. – Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp. (Nasdaq: DFLI), an industry leader in energy storage and maker of Battle Born Batteries, today announced in a press release entry into a partnership with Keystone Automotive Operations Inc., a leading distributor and marketer of specialty automotive equipment and accessories in North America.

With this joint effort, Dragonfly Energy’s Battle Born Batteries brand of products are available for shipment from any of Keystone Automotive’s eight distribution centers for overnight or two-day delivery to Keystone Automotive’s extensive network of suppliers across 48 states and 9 Canadian provinces via its truck delivery service.

This partnership is expected to increase the availability of Battle Born Batteries by leveraging Keystone Automotive’s robust distribution network. Battle Born Batteries are available to Keystone Automotive customers across multiple industry segments, including the recreational vehicle (RV) industry through NTP-STAG, the marine industry through SeaWide, and the overlanding and off-grid industry through Keystone Automotive.

“Keystone Automotive brings an extensive network and a large, engaged audience to this partnership, which we believe will expand Dragonfly Energy’s market presence,” said Wade Seaburg, chief revenue officer at Dragonfly Energy. “In addition to their strong market presence, Keystone is known for delivering top-tier distribution services. We are proud to align with such a respected partner to provide customers the opportunity for increased accessibility to the batteries and products they rely on.”

“The addition of Dragonfly Energy’s Battle Born Batteries brand to our product offerings complements our commitment to quality, customer service, and providing our customers the best products on the market,” said Andy Morgan, director of marketing at Keystone Automotive Operations. “Dragonfly Energy’s products will allow us to provide our customers with powerful energy solutions that give them the benefit of extended lifespan, increased safety, and an environmentally responsible power solution.”

For more information about Dragonfly Energy, visit DragonflyEnergy.com.To learn more about Keystone Automotive Operations, visit KeystoneAutomotive.com.

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Rollick Announces Partnership with Heartland, Cruiser & DRV

AUSTIN, Texas – Rollick, a leading marketing technology provider in the RV industry, announced today at the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo the integration of a new Inventory and Digital Retailing solution into the brand websites of Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites. The solution gives dealers the ability to expose their inventory directly on these brands’ websites while capturing buying intent and consumer financing applications via Rollick’s contextual integration with U.S. Bank.

Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites decision to launch an Inventory and Digital Retailing Solution was informed by Rollick and the brands’ 2023 “Future of Buying” study finding that 75% of respondents said they wanted to explore dealer inventory online before visiting a dealership. The study also revealed that 49% of respondents wanted to explore financing options online and 43% want to go as far as applying for credit approval. Respondents included confirmed Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites prospects and buyers during the prior one-year period.

“Our research was clear that we needed to innovate our brand website to meet the needs of today’s shoppers,” said Lesley Melvin, director of marketing for Heartland RV, Cruiser RV, and DRV Luxury Suites. “Accordingly, we are very excited to partner with Rollick, our existing solution provider for lead management and marketing automation through its Aimbase Marketing product and leverage their relationship with U.S. Bank on this exciting new program to benefit our customers and dealers. Through the partnership, we will create more marketing exposure for our in-stock inventory and drive ready-to-buy pre-approved customers directly to dealerships.”

The new Inventory and Digital Retailing experience is designed to help shoppers estimate monthly payments through an embedded monthly payment calculator powered by U.S. Bank. Serious shoppers can then take the next step by applying for credit online via U.S. Bank and receiving a credit decision prior to arriving at the dealership. This functionality is all embedded into Rollick’s Digital Retailing tool, RollickDR, that is attached to every listing. Customers can also use RollickDR to request a price quote from the dealer and schedule a sales appointment. 

“Integrating U.S. Bank financing into this new solution is another exciting step in our journey to simplify the financing process for RV shoppers,” said John Hyatt, executive vice president, Dealer Services, U.S. Bank. “With just a few steps, consumers can complete an online credit application to finance a new or used RV in a seamless integrated experience. We also keep the dealer in mind throughout the process so they can readily serve approved customers when they arrive at the dealership to complete their purchase.” 

While all three brands launched their Inventory and Digital Retailing programs earlier this fall, Rollick’s Dealer Development team is still reaching out to unenrolled dealers to secure their participation in program. Interested dealers can also proactively contact Rollick via email at [email protected] or visit our booth this week at the 2024 RV Dealers Connection/Expo to get enrolled or have any questions answered.

Jason Nierman, Rollick’s Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer, closed by saying: “This partnership between Heartland RV, Cruiser RV and DRV Luxury Suites and Rollick is a unique collaboration in our industry. By integrating U.S. Bank financing solutions directly into the OEM websites through Rollick’s platform, we are making it easier for brand website visitors to start their deal online to save time at the dealership. This enhances the buying process and drives high-quality leads to the brands’ dealers. It is an exciting time to be at the forefront of this industry with such a progressive OEM like Heartland RV and lender like U.S. Bank.”

About Rollick

Rollick is a technology company that provides software to manufacturers and dealerships in the Powersports, RV, Marine, and industrial/outdoor power equipment industries. Utilized by over 130 OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and thousands of dealers, Rollick’s SaaS solutions include enterprise lead management, digital retailing, inventory marketing, post-sale customer experience, and marketing automation. In addition, the company has rapidly built its outdoor recreational vehicle buying marketplace branded for Sam’s Club, US Bank, AAA, major insurance providers, employees at more than 2,000 top U.S. companies, military members, veterans, and first responders. Rollick was founded in 2017, based in Austin, TX, and backed by several venture investment firms, including Silverton Partners and LiveOak Venture Partners. For more information, visit Rollick.io.

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Blue Compass Appoints Sahli to Lead Motor Home Specialist

Donny O’Banion

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Blue Compass RV, the nation’s second largest and fastest-growing RV retailer, today announced a leadership transition at Motor Home Specialist (MHS), the world’s largest motor home dealer. Donny O’Banion, President of MHS, will be stepping down from his day-to-day role running MHS on December 31, 2024.    

Donny O’Banion will continue to serve as a valuable partner of Blue Compass RV, supporting the motorized business, including Foretravel.  Under O’Banion’s leadership, MHS has been the No. 1 motor dealer in the United States 11 years in a row.

“We have been incredibly fortunate for Donny O’Banion’s leadership throughout the past six and a half years since we acquired MHS, he is a true industry legend and great partner. We thank Donny for his leadership and dedication to MHS,” said Jon Ferrando, founder, CEO and president of Blue Compass RV.

Jon Ferrando

“While Donny will be stepping back from his current role as President of MHS, I am pleased that he will continue to contribute his expertise to our motorized business,” added Ferrando.  “The exciting part is that this creates opportunities for new leaders to step up, and our goal is continue the business model and success of MHS as the largest motor home dealer in the world.”

Anthony Sahli, South Region President for Blue Compass RV, will assume responsibility for MHS, including inventory management.  Elisha Bendele has been named MHS Vice President and will be responsible for day-to-day operations of MHS, reporting to Anthony Sahli.

Anthony Sahli

Anthony Sahli runs Blue Compass RV’s largest region spanning Florida, Texas and Oklahoma, and has led highly successful stores including large successful motorized stores for Blue Compass RV like Blue Compass Tampa.  Elisha Bendele has held several key leadership roles at Blue Compass RV, including in marketing, RV show management, and as a GM and Market Leader for Blue Compass, most recently leading the five-store South Carolina market, one of the top markets in the company in 2024. 

“Anthony and Elisha are proven leaders with a deep understanding of the RV business,” added Jon Ferrando. “Their experience and expertise will ensure a seamless transition and continued success for MHS.  I am very proud to continue our track record of promoting from within Blue Compass RV for key leadership positions.”

Elisha Bendele

“I’m incredibly grateful for the 30 plus years I’ve had in the RV industry with the O’Banion family, our team and our OEM partners. Joining forces with Blue Compass in 2018 proved to be one of the best decisions of my career,” said O’Banion. “The partnership we’ve had and the path ahead for MHS continues to be exceptional.  I am grateful to Jon Ferrando and the Blue Compass RV leadership team for all we’ve accomplished together. While I’m excited to step back from the day-to-day to spend more time with my family, I’m also looking forward to supporting Blue Compass in the future as a partner, particularly in support of our OEM relationships.”

Blue Compass RV, formerly RV Retailer, launched their business on June 29, 2018, with the acquisition of Motor Home Specialist, the largest motorhome dealer in the world. Since then, they have been the fastest growing RV company in history with over 100 stores across the country bringing together incredible talent from the RV industry and a vast network of stores in 33 states to serve our customers wherever their travels may take them.

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. Its stores across America offer an incredible selection of new and used RVs, including the best lineup of premium new brands. Its mission is to provide an exceptional sales, service, and RV ownership experience for our customers, and with over 1,000 service bays across the country, Blue Compass is able to service its customers wherever their travels may take them. 

Blue Compass RV has been named the No. 1 Airstream dealer in the world for five consecutive years, with a record-setting nine 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.

Led by Ferrando, Blue Compass has experienced exponential growth since its founding in 2018, for which it was named to the 2023 and 2024 Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list, as well as South Florida Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Private Companies list for three consecutive years. Prior to launching Blue Compass RV, Ferrando was instrumental in building America’s largest automotive retailer from start-up to over $20 billion in revenue.

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Brown & Brown Announces Paul Gallagher as Controller

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE: BRO) has announced the appointment of Paul Gallagher, CPA, as its controller.

In this role, Gallagher will provide strategic guidance and leadership for all financial operations, including SEC and financial reporting, controls and compliance, acquisitions, planning and strategic decision-making. He will also play a key role in supporting continued talent development.

“We are very excited to welcome Paul to the Brown & Brown team,” said Andy Watts, executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer. “He brings a wealth of global experience and the skills as well as the leadership attributes needed to support our continued growth and global expansion. His analytical and collaborative approach to leadership makes him an excellent addition to our incredible team.”

Gallagher joins Brown & Brown from Deloitte, where he has spent more than 25 years serving premier, global clients in the public accounting space. During that time, he led large teams of multifunctional professionals, working in various capacities, including audit, advisory, business development and retention, M&A, quality and risk, technical accounting, and international business. 

About Brown & Brown Inc.

Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE: BRO) is a leading insurance brokerage firm, delivering risk management solutions to individuals and businesses since 1939. With approximately 16,000 teammates and 500+ locations worldwide, we are committed to providing innovative strategies to help protect what our customers value most. For more information or to find an office near you, please visit bbinsurance.com.

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