RV Business

PORTLAND, Ore, – Outside Van, the pioneer of premium, adventure-focused van conversions announces a third edition to its model lineup – Parks.

Parks is a full-sized, all-wheel drive, Class B RV with seating and sleeping for up to two adults. It is focused on creating a solid homebase for explorers looking for the ideal vehicle to travel comfortably and experience the outdoors through campgrounds and national parks, according to a company release. 

What sets Parks apart from Outside Van’s other flagship models Syncline and Approach, are components and a layout dialed in to fill the gap between the maneuverability and capability of Adventure Vans and the accessibility and connectivity of your traditional full-sized RV.

Focused on comfort, accessibility, and privacy, Parks includes a dedicated interior washroom, dubbed the Outback Washroom. The washroom includes a fully enclosed High Top shower with increased head room for taller individuals, a permanent cassette-based toilet with electric flush and easy access waste disposal, and a vanity and washing station.

Parks includes all the hallmarks of an Outside Van®, including a spacious sleeping area that converts into a comfortable dinette that utilizes an adjustable table for a cozy dining experience and a full-sized galley kitchen complete with refrigerator, cooktop, stainless-steel sink and ample storage.

Parks features a technology and power package that will ensure years of use with all the modern connectivity features in mind. It includes a smart control system powered by Garmin that controls and monitors all systems of the van, a dedicated entertainment center, and a pre-drilled passthrough ready for any roof-based communications devices.

Parks is projected to be available nationwide at the end of Q3 through a select dealer network and will have its public debut at the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House in Elkhart, Indiana in September.

Since 2007, Outside Van® has brought people closer to nature by creating purpose-built vehicles that enable a life of freedom, joy, and connection. With an unwavering focus on quality, durability, and capability, Outside Van® has created a legacy of building industry-leading adventure van’ conversions. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Outside Van has expansive product offering ranging from Class-B production models focused on the mass market to fully custom camper vans.

The post Outside Van ‘Parks’ has Outback Washroom, Smart Control Center first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FAIRFAX, Va. – Roman Kortman has been chosen to receive the Mike Molino RV Learning Center Scholarship for the academic year 2024-2025. Endowed through the Kindlund Family Foundation, the $2,500 award goes to a deserving RV industry employee or their dependent enrolled in undergraduate studies.  

Kortman will be entering his sophomore year at Spring Arbor University where he is pursuing a major in business administration with a minor in entrepreneurship. He has achieved a 3.72 GPA in his undergraduate studies.  

When asked, Kortman said his passion for the RV industry began by, “being around RVs my whole life and growing up camping every summer with family and friends.” Roman continued, “my dad also sparked my passion for this industry because he has been in the RV industry for his entire professional career. He has worked in the industry for 24 years.” 

His goals include, “to one day own a dealership that is combined with a campground.” He continued, “I believe that having dealerships around the country that are combined with a campground would allow for much greater customer service than a standard dealership or campground. Being able to rent and test out an RV before buying would offer my customers an unparalleled buying experience.” 

“We are thrilled that the Mike Molino RV Learning Center College Scholarship has been awarded to a potential future leader in the RV industry,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “Roman’s hard work and determination is an encouraging sign for the future of our industry.” 

The Kindlund family, which endowed the scholarship program with $270,000, remains active in the RV industry even after selling its corporation, Holiday RV Superstores, in 1999. Newt Kindlund serves as Director Emeritus on the RV Learning Center Board of Directors. “This scholarship is one of the oldest in the industry and we are very proud to have established it over 20 years ago,” Kindlund said. 

The Learning Center’s scholarship program recognizes deserving rising college sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Applicants are judged on their current RV industry involvement or their plan to seek employment in the industry upon graduation, academic achievement, extracurricular activities and honors, financial need, and a 500-word essay on their goals and objectives after college. The program has awarded $82,500 to 33 students since its inception in 2000.  

The Mike Molino RV Learning Center is a leading resource for targeted publications, fixed operations certification programs, online learning and training, and live workshops – all designed exclusively for dealership staff. The professional development and educational resources offered by the Learning Center help dealers maintain professionalism and efficiency.  

For more information about the RV Learning Center, go to www.rvlearningcenter.com. The RV Learning Center is a tax-exempt organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions may be tax deductible as charitable donations. 

The post Mike Molino RV Learning Center Names Scholarship Recipient first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ELKHART, Ind. – Truma North America is proud to announce a significant donation to Care Camps Foundation, elevating their mission to give joy, hope and the healing power of the outdoors to children with cancer and their families at medically supervised pediatric oncology camps.

Truma North America, a premium supplier to the RV and outdoor recreation industry, is the newest partner to amplify Care Camp Foundation’s mission, donating over 100 Truma Cooler portable refrigerators/freezers to camps across North America.

“Earlier this year we had the opportunity to hear Care Camps Foundation Executive Director Gwynn Sullivan speak,” said Gerhard Hundsberger, President and CEO of Truma North America. “It lit a fire in the team to see what we could do to help.”

Truma worked with Care Camps Foundation and the Children’s Oncology Camping Association (COCA) which oversees the quality assurance of each camp to identify those needing help with on-site refrigeration. The response was extraordinary.

“We were floored by the enthusiastic response,” said Hundsberger. A majority of the camps expressed interest sharing that refrigeration space is one of the biggest hurdles they encounter, as many rent the facilities where they provide camps each year.”

Participating camps will receive two C105 Truma Coolers, shipping on a rolling basis to accommodate demand. Each portable fridge/freezer gives camp organizers an additional 105 quarts-by-volume of refrigerated storage space for food, drinks, and cold-stored medications. With both AC and DC power cables, Truma coolers can also be used to transport supplies to camp.

“Truma’s generosity is very much appreciated,” said Beverley Tidwell of Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Southern Arizona. “As we all know, it can get really warm in Tucson, AZ and keeping food and medications safe is a priority for us. We look forward to using the Truma Cooler during our programs.”

Gwynn Sullivan, Care Camps Foundation Executive Director says the donation and support from Truma is a testament to the power of creative partnerships. “Our team thrives on creative collaboration with the camps we fund and the partners who make it possible. Truma is a shining example of how companies can give back and create tremendous impact for these children and their families.”

This year, Care Camps Foundation is celebrating its 40 anniversary and is the only national nonprofit whose sole purpose is to fund pediatric oncology camps across the United States and Canada. In 2023, Care Camps Foundation awarded $2M to support 122 pediatric oncology camps. Collectively, these camps served over 41,000 individuals including children living with cancer, siblings, parents, and other family members. Each camp offers unique programs and services to families navigating childhood cancer. Learn more, donate, and be inspired visit www.carecamp.org.

Since 2013, Truma North America has provided premium solutions for outdoor living in the United States and Canada from their headquarters in Elkhart, Indiana. The German-founded RV supplier has 75 years of experience providing world-class comfort systems like instant water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, and portable refrigerators/freezers to the global recreation market. Backed by German engineering and a passion for the outdoors, Truma is committed to making your next adventure ”Simply Better” with innovative technology, exemplary service, and a customer-first philosophy. For more information about Truma and its products, visit www.truma.com/us or email [email protected].

The post Truma Donates Portable Refrigerator/Freezers to Care Camps first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

 ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Meyer’s RV Superstores, a leading name in the recreational vehicle industry, is excited to announce several key leadership promotions aimed at supporting the company’s continued growth and success.

Mike Fleming has been promoted to Regional Vice President.  Mike brings extensive experience in the recreational vehicle business, having started his career from the ground up. In his new role, Mike will oversee approximately half of Meyer’s 15 RV locations, driving strategic initiatives and operational excellence.

Kyle Smith has also been promoted to Regional Vice President, where he will lead the remaining half of the organization. Kyle has held various positions at Meyer’s RV Superstores, including roles in sales, finance, and as a general manager. His deep understanding of the business will be crucial in supporting the company’s expansion and market leadership.

Frank Incardona, who has served as the company’s controller since 2016, has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Frank has played an instrumental role in helping Meyer’s grow from two stores to 15 RV locations, as well as leading the financial operations of its marine branch with three additional locations.

David Donatello, who joined Meyer’s two years ago from a top accounting firm in New York, has been promoted to Controller of all 18 locations. David’s expertise in financial management will be vital as the company continues to scale its operations across multiple regions.

“We are thrilled to announce these well-deserved promotions,” said Mark Meyer and Mark Calzone, co-owners of Meyer’s RV Superstores. “We take great pride in promoting from within, and we are confident that these leadership appointments will help us continue our success. Meyer’s RV Superstores, founded in late 2015, has been built on the strength of our employees, and with over 70 years of combined experience in the RV industry, we are eager to take the company to new heights.”

The post Meyer’s RV Superstores Announces Four Key Promotions first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FAIRFAX, Va. – RV fixed operation professionals will be able to attend the RV Dealers Convention/Expo at Paris Las Vegas at a special price for an intensive series of workshops focusing on service management and warranty administration. 

During Fixed Operations Day on Thursday, Nov. 14th, dealership employees can access a wealth of information provided by RV industry experts and vendors that will help improve profitability and efficiency in all areas of the service drive. RV Learning Center certified fixed operations professionals can also use the workshops for CEU credits to recertify.  

Workshops set for Fixed Operations Day include: 

• 4 Simple Changes for a Record Year in Fixed Operations
  Ken Barnes, DealerPRO RV Training 
  This workshop will provide the outline for RV Service and Parts departments to dramatically increase gross profits through proven processes to include compensation plans, training outlines, measuring results, and making adjustments. 
• Tune Up Your Warranty Processes  Garry Enyart, RV Industry Consultant & James Pearo, Hilltop Camper & RV  This workshop can help your dealership overcome common bottlenecks clogging up warranty processing and reimbursement. Learn how to work with all stakeholders in warranty repair process to improve Repair Event Cycle Time (RECT).  
• Pulse Check: Current RECT Trends and What’s Driving Them  Don Miller, IDS – Integrated Dealer Systems  In this presentation, IDS will look at the key insights of the latest RECT trends and where they may be heading in 2025. This presentation is designed to help you benchmark your dealership’s performance against the rest of the industry. 
• Level Up Your Technician Training with RVTI  Sharonne Lee & Justin Rickett, RV Technical Institute  Take your RV technician training program to the next level with the RV Technical Training Institute (RVTI). Join the RVTI team for this special session and get up to date on the latest industry-approved training and certification programs available for new and experienced technicians. 
• Tune Up Your Shop for Maximum Performance  Valerie Ziebron, VRZ Consulting  Is your service department running as well as it could be? Are you consistently delivering profitable, proactive results? This interactive session will dig into shop specifics and uncover key components that need to be tuned up to keep your shop running its best. 
• Elevate Your Fixed Ops Customer Experience with Automation  Allison Miller, IDS – Integrated Dealer Systems  The customer experience is something every dealership should be focusing on, especially in fixed ops departments. To maximize profit in fixed ops your customer interactions need to be more frequent, more personalized, and more helpful. In this presentation, you will learn how to leverage automation to build trust and create stronger customer relationships through communication, without burning out your team. 

For the complete Thursday workshop schedule, click here.  Vendor Training +Plus Sessions on Thursday include: 

• The RV Journey – Ensuring a Smooth Path with Your OEM from Delivery to Service
  Kelly Mosher & Mike Pedue, Forest River, Inc.  
  Attendees will learn the stages that can help lead to a smooth delivery of the RV from the OEM to the dealership and through the final sale.    
• Lippert ABS
  Adam Buchanan, Lippert 
  Lippert has released a new braking platform for towables featuring an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for electric brakes. This training will explain ABS functionality and overall system performance. 
• RV Solar & Off-Grid Innovation
  David Copeland, Go Power! 
  Join industry leader Go Power! to learn what’s new in mobile power systems, including new products, advances in existing technology, and easy ways to add solar to every sale that goes off your lot. 
• World Class Slide-Out Sealing Solutions
  Luc McCarty, Jaeger-UniTek Sealing Solutions 
  This focuses on our patented slide-out sealing solutions tailored specifically for the recreational vehicle industry.  

“One of RVDA’s strategic priorities is to help improve the industry’s Repair Event Cycle Time – or RECT,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia.  “Offering this special registration convention category expressly for front-line fixed operations professionals is one of the ways the association can encourage best practices that will improve RECT and overall customer satisfaction with their service experience.”  

The special discounted Fixed Operations Day price of $389 is good for admittance to the convention beginning on the evening of Wednesday, Nov. 13th for the RVBusiness Top 50 Dealer Award reception, and all-day Thursday, Nov. 14th.  As a bonus, Fixed Operations Day participants will be able to attend an extra bonus session “Elevate Your Fixed Operations Through Online Training and Certification,” with RVDA Fixed Operations Consultant Tony Yerman, on Friday, Nov. 15th.   Fixed operations professionals can register for the convention here. 

About the RV Dealers Convention/Expo
The convention allows North America’s top dealership personnel to forge valuable connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners in the Expo. Dealership professionals can expand their network and gain insights from the best in the RV industry. 

To register for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo click here. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. 

The event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.  The exhibit hall is sold out.  Companies interested in partnership and sponsorship opportunities can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or email [email protected]. 

The post Fixed Operations Day Planned at RVDA Convention/Expo first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – J. Powell Brown, president and chief executive officer, and Julie Turpin, chief people officer, announced that Brown & Brown, Inc. (“Brown & Brown”) and our team of companies have been selected by Great Place To Work® and Fortune for the prestigious 2024 Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance List for the fifth consecutive year.

“Our unique culture puts our team, customers and communities first—and differentiates us from other organizations,” says Brown. “We prioritize the team’s well-being and embrace the diversity of talent and thought that contribute to our shared accomplishments and The Power of WE.” He adds, “This recognition as a Best Workplace in Financial Services & Insurance underscores our dedication to inclusivity and providing opportunities for success for all of our teammates now and in the future.”

Turpin shares, “We are a people-first organization and recognition like this would not be possible without our 16,000+ truly inspiring and talented teammates. Embracing the evolving insurance landscape, we are committed to nurturing our talent and continuing our work to become the employer of choice for professionals at every career stage. Together, we’re shaping the future of insurance with unwavering dedication to our people and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”

The Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance list is highly competitive and based on analysis of survey responses from over 194,000 employees at Great Place To Work Certified companies in the financial services and insurance industry. Survey responses reflect a comprehensive picture of the workplace experience. Honorees were selected based on their ability to offer positive outcomes for employees regardless of job role, race, gender, sexual orientation, work status or other demographic identifiers.

“Congratulations to the Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “These companies not only outperform the average for their industry but have created workplaces that outshine the average in every category, proving the importance of building trust with workers, no matter the industry.”

Earlier this year, Brown & Brown was also named to Great Place To Work and Fortune’s 2024 Best Workplaces for Women and Best Workplaces for Millennials lists and awarded the 2023-2024 Platinum Level Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA) for the second year in a row. In addition, Brown & Brown was Certified by Great Place To Work® for the fifth consecutive year in October 2023.

The post Brown & Brown on Fortune Best Workplaces 5 Consecutive Years first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – J. Powell Brown, president and chief executive officer, and Julie Turpin, chief people officer, announced that Brown & Brown, Inc. (“Brown & Brown”) and our team of companies have been selected by Great Place To Work® and Fortune for the prestigious 2024 Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance List for the fifth consecutive year.

“Our unique culture puts our team, customers and communities first—and differentiates us from other organizations,” says Brown. “We prioritize the team’s well-being and embrace the diversity of talent and thought that contribute to our shared accomplishments and The Power of WE.” He adds, “This recognition as a Best Workplace in Financial Services & Insurance underscores our dedication to inclusivity and providing opportunities for success for all of our teammates now and in the future.”

Turpin shares, “We are a people-first organization and recognition like this would not be possible without our 16,000+ truly inspiring and talented teammates. Embracing the evolving insurance landscape, we are committed to nurturing our talent and continuing our work to become the employer of choice for professionals at every career stage. Together, we’re shaping the future of insurance with unwavering dedication to our people and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”

The Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance list is highly competitive and based on analysis of survey responses from over 194,000 employees at Great Place To Work Certified companies in the financial services and insurance industry. Survey responses reflect a comprehensive picture of the workplace experience. Honorees were selected based on their ability to offer positive outcomes for employees regardless of job role, race, gender, sexual orientation, work status or other demographic identifiers.

“Congratulations to the Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance,” says Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work. “These companies not only outperform the average for their industry but have created workplaces that outshine the average in every category, proving the importance of building trust with workers, no matter the industry.”

Earlier this year, Brown & Brown was also named to Great Place To Work and Fortune’s 2024 Best Workplaces for Women and Best Workplaces for Millennials lists and awarded the 2023-2024 Platinum Level Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health by Mental Health America (MHA) for the second year in a row. In addition, Brown & Brown was Certified by Great Place To Work® for the fifth consecutive year in October 2023.

The post Brown & Brown on Fortune Best Workplaces 5 Consecutive Years first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Glamping Show Americas is coming together with Emerald, America’s largest producer of business-to-business trade shows, and their associated conferences, content and commerce, to grow and elevate the luxury camping business, according to a press release.

“Glamping Show Americas has been a cornerstone of the industry for six years,” states the release. “Renowned for attracting the most prominent names and brands, the conference offers attendees the opportunity to explore glamping business basics, how to secure funding, sourcing structures and amenities, market trends and more.”

This year, Glamping Show Americas will take place Oct. 1-2 at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds in Aurora, Colo. The event will feature pre-show workshops, a two-day conference, an indoor/outdoor expo hall and the luxury camping industry’s most innovative products from glamping tents and wagons to sustainable products servicing the outdoor hospitality sector.

The 2024 Glamping Show Americas will maintain the look and feel that attendees have come to expect and the familiar faces of the team will be seen throughout the show — including GSA show co-founder David Korse, who will also continue to be involved in the event.

“We are thrilled about the future of the show as part of Emerald’s Connections business under the sports and outdoor portfolio, ” said David Korse, co-founder of Glamping Show Americas. “The combination of  Emerald’s Outdoor industry experience, their resources, and their reputation for producing value for the  communities they serve represent a bright future for Glamping Show Americas.”

GSA comes together with Emerald’s Sports and Outdoor portfolio including business-to-business and business-to-consumer event and content properties including Outdoor Retailer, Surf Expo, Shop Eat Surf and the Overland Expo series of events and content channels.

Moving into 2025, the Glamping Show Americas event team will have access to new event production and marketing resources to enhance both the conference and expo by increasing the show’s reach and impact while providing greater value to exhibitors, attendees and industry partners, explained the release.

To register as an exhibitor or attendee, visit The Glamping Show Americas.

The post Trade Show Co. ‘Emerald’ Acquires Glamping Show Americas first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

PUEBLO, Colo. – Boreas Campers is excited to add the UB Ultra-Base as the newest and most affordable addition to its model lineup. At $14,990 the UB features the same robust chassis, offroad suspension and composite panel construction as the other models from Boreas Campers making it an incredibly capable camper at a price point meant to open up the brand to a new category of adventure seekers

The cabin features a completely open area for adventurers to make the space their own. Built with Boreas composite panels that are 1.8” thick with a woven FRP exterior and XPS foam, the cabin is highly insulated to allow for comfortable trips well past the traditional camping season. The 57”W x 106”L x 45”H open area offers a great space for carrying bulky gear and equipment for custom adventures. DIY builders especially will appreciate the blank slate to build their custom setup.

Just like the flagship Boreas Campers XT, the UB rides on 17” steel wheels, BFGoodrich All Terrain Ko2 tires and Cruisemaster CRS2 independent suspension, electric brakes and fully articulating D035 hitch. The frame offers 20” of ground clearance and front and rear hitch receivers perfect for storage boxes, bikes or adventure bikes up to 400 lbs with the optional custom moto tray. 

“We’re excited to offer the high-level offroad performance Boreas Campers is known for while targeting a broader market based on a more affordable price,” said Matt Reichel, Founder and President of Boreas Campers. “The UB is a great way for newer campers to get into a Boreas and start exploring off road, seasoned campers to upgrade their rig and bring their existing gear, and DIY builders to have a rock solid foundation to build upon. It is a really great option for a wide range of folks to get out and enjoy nature and the adventures that are waiting out there.” 

At 16’ long, 7’ wide, 80” tall and a dry weight of 1,425 lbs the UB easily navigates tight trails and is towable by a wide range of mid-size vehicles. With limited add-on options available the UB can be customized at the factory while maintaining its low price point. 

Other key features include the double doors with Tern Overland windows with integrated black out shade, bug screen and vent, MaxxAir 6200 All Weather fan and parking brake. And owners can rest assured with Boreas Campers lifetime chassis warranty.

Learn more about the UB at boreascampers.com and schedule an appointment for an in-person or virtual walk through. See Boreas Campers next at Overland Expo East in Arrington, VA at the Roadtrip Camping booth October 4-6, 2024.

Founded in 2015 and based in Pueblo, Colorado, Boreas Campers is a leading manufacturer of off-road camper trailers, dedicated to providing adventurers with the tools they need to explore the world around them. With a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, Boreas Campers continues to push the boundaries of adventure and redefine the outdoor experience for enthusiasts worldwide.

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BRISTOL, Ind. – Renegade RV, pioneer of the Super C motorhome and part of REV Group, Inc., has opened its expansive Customer Experience Center in Elkhart, Ind., nearby to its manufacturing facility in Bristol, Ind., according to a release The Center will display MY25 motorized motorhomes from REV Recreational Vehicles Segment motorized brands Fleetwood RV, Holiday Rambler, American Coach, Renegade RV, and Midwest Automotive Designs during the Elkhart RV Open House from Sept. 23-25.*

The new Renegade RV Customer Experience Center is just over 44,000 square feet and includes 10 service bays. Currently, the facility services Renegade RV products only and is operating six bays with 18 employees. When the Center is at full capacity, the team expects to have 29 employees. In addition, Renegade is planning to add a customer lounge next year, which will offer amenities such as showers and television.

“We are delighted to offer a dedicated Renegade RV service center for our customers that is close to Renegade’s headquarters and manufacturing facility,” said Jeremy Slinker, director of customer & product support, Renegade RV. “Equally, we are proud to host all the other motorized REV Group RV brands at our brand new center for the upcoming Dealer Open House. It’s a great opportunity for attendees take a look at the center as well as see our MY25 models!”

The Renegade RV Customer Experience Center is located at 2707 CR 15, Elkhart, IN 46514, and operating hours are Monday to Thursday, from 7am to 4pm ET and Friday, 7am to 3pm ET. To book an appointment, customers can visit https://www.renegaderv.com/contact/.

*Lance Camper’s MY25 travel trailers and truck campers will be displayed on Executive Parkway, across from the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum.

The post Renegade RV Expands to Open Customer Experience Center first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.