Breaking News

Performance Brokerage Services, North America’s highest volume dealership brokerage firm, announces the sale of Wisconsin RV World in DeForest, Wis., from Christine Eagan and the Eagan Family to Kunes Auto & RV, according to a release.

RVBusiness first reported this acquisition on Dec. 6 (See: “Kunes RV Group Announces Wisconsin RV World Acquisition”).

Wisconsin RV World is Wisconsin’s oldest licensed towable dealer. It was founded in 1945 by Navy pilot, Jack Eagan, and entrepreneurs, Bill and Romie Schneider, to meet the rising demand for affordable housing in Madison, Wisconsin. In 1957, the company expanded its offerings to include RVs and in 1966, sold its first Winnebago motorhome.

In 1984, Jack’s son, Michael, and son-in-law, Dick Hoffmann, purchased the company. In 1986, the dealership relocated to its current location at the corner of Interstate 90/94 and Highway 51 and was renamed Wisconsin RV World. Michael’s daughter, Christine Eagan, joined the family business in 1991, and in 2001, she became President, continuing the family’s legacy of servicing the Madison community.

After the sale, Christine shared, “Jesse Stopnitzky came highly recommended from a friend in the RV industry, as he has always heard great things about Jesse and his company. So, when it came time to make one of the most significant decisions in my company’s history, I knew I needed guidance from someone who truly understood both the industry and our values. Jesse Stopnitzky at Performance Brokerage Services turned out to be that perfect partner. The entire process was seamless and transparent, and Jesse’s expertise and personal touch made a complex journey feel manageable. We felt supported every step of the way, and his dedication to ensuring a smooth transition for all parties involved was unmatched. It’s not easy to close a chapter on 80 years of history, but with Jesse and Performance Brokerage Services, we felt confident that we were making the right choice for the future of our business, our employees, and our customers. We’re grateful for his guidance and partnership during this milestone moment.”

Over the last five years, Performance Brokerage Services has advised on the sale of over 300 dealerships, making it the highest volume dealership brokerage firm in North America, the release continued. Jesse Stopnitzky, co-owner and director of the RV Division for Performance Brokerage Services, and Jon Couwenberg, partner, were the exclusive sell-side advisors for this transaction.

Stopnitzky commented, “We are privileged to often be involved in lifechanging events for our clients, though it is rare to advise on a business with a history as rich as Wisconsin RV World. For nearly 80 years, the Eagan family serviced their Madison community with great pride. Their deep-rooted family values are immeasurable and are a true testament to their success over so many years. It was an honor to have been entrusted by the Eagan family with facilitating the transition to Kunes Auto & RV.”

Kunes Auto & RV, founded by Gregg Kunes in 1996 in Delavan, Wis., is the top-selling RV dealership in Wisconsin, making up 24% of the state’s RV sales. With over 40 automotive and RV locations across the Midwest, Kunes Auto & RV employs over 1,800 people and donates 10% of its annual profits to local charities.

Kunes Auto Group is ranked No. 110 on the 2024 Automotive News Top 150 Dealership Groups based on 2023 new vehicle retail sales units. The company has earned over 30 Automotive News “Best Dealerships to Work For” awards, which are awarded to 100 dealers nationwide each year.

Ron Baker, chief operating officer of the RV Division at Kunes Auto & RV stated, “We are honored to continue the legacy that Wisconsin RV World has built over eight decades of family ownership. Their commitment to customer service and family values perfectly aligns with our own mission and the initiatives we’ve launched to enhance the RV ownership experience.”

Wisconsin RV World will remain at its current location at 5920 Haase Road in DeForest, Wisconsin.

The post Performance Brokerage Services Advises on Kunes Acquisition first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

WILMINGTON, N.C. — Walex Products Company, a leader in commercial, RV and marine sanitation solutions, announces the appointment of Kristopher Johnson as its new Marketing Manager. With a wealth of experience in product marketing, digital strategy, and branding, Kristopher joins Walex to enhance further the company’s customer relationships, brand positioning, and marketing initiatives.

“We are excited to welcome Kristopher to Walex,” said RV & Marine Sales Manager Tony Butler. “His strong background in marketing strategy and innovative approach will be instrumental in expanding our reach in the RV and marine markets. Kristopher’s leadership will help drive product awareness and align with our long-term brand vision.”

As Marketing Manager, Johnson will lead the development of company-wide brand and product marketing strategies, executing multi-platform campaigns that build upon Walex’s established reputation. His experience in both B2B and B2C marketing will ensure that Walex’s product lines retain their premium status while expanding into new customer segments.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Walex, a brand trusted by many in the commercial, RV, and marine communities,” says Johnson. “I look forward to leveraging my digital marketing and brand development expertise to help drive Walex’s continued growth and innovation.”

Johnson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Design and Visual Communications from San Diego State University. He has previously held senior marketing roles across industries, including medical devices, technology, and sporting goods. Outside of work, he enjoys surfing, paddleboarding, fishing, and spending time with his two daughters. Kristopher can be reached directly at [email protected] or 910-371-2242 ext. 118.

About Walex Products Company Inc.

Walex Products Company Inc. is a global leader in manufacturing sanitation solutions and environmental odor control products. With a strong focus on innovation, quality, and customer service, Walex serves portable sanitation, RV, marine, and industrial markets with eco-friendly products designed to meet its customers’ diverse needs. Committed to environmental stewardship, Walex is dedicated to developing sustainable practices across all areas of its business. 100% of manufacturing is solar-powered.

The post Walex Appoints Kristopher Johnson as Marketing Manager first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ATHENS, Texas — In a remarkable display of generosity, RV Technician Association of America (RVTAA) certified RV technicians and National RV Inspectors Association (NRVIA) certified RV inspectors collectively raised nearly $13,000 for the Abundant Life Pregnancy Resource Center during the 2024 RVTAA & NRVIA EXPO.

The event, held Dec. 6-8 at the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) campus in Athens, Texas, brought together professionals dedicated to both their craft and their community, according to a release.

The fundraising initiative was ignited by Terry “The Texas RV Professor” Cooper, who, during a session, presented a donation bucket and emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting others, invoking the principle that “to whom much is given, much is required.” This heartfelt appeal resonated deeply with attendees, sparking a wave of contributions. One attendee’s pledge to match donations up to $5,000 further amplified the collective effort, culminating in a total of nearly $13,000 raised for the center.

The Abundant Life Pregnancy Resource Center, located in Athens, Texas, offers free and confidential services to individuals facing unplanned pregnancies. Their comprehensive support includes medical-grade pregnancy tests, parenting education classes, community referrals, and material assistance through their Baby Boutique, which provides infant and toddler supplies. The center is committed to empowering women and men throughout pregnancy, ensuring they have access to the resources and support needed during challenging times.

The 2024 EXPO provided RV technicians and inspectors with in-depth training, certification opportunities, and industry networking. The event featured hands-on training sessions, professional development workshops, and keynote addresses from industry leaders, all aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of attendees.

The success of this fundraising effort underscores the commitment of RVTAA and NRVIA members to making a positive impact beyond their professional responsibilities. Their collective generosity will significantly aid the Abundant Life Pregnancy Resource Center in continuing its vital services to the community.

For more information about the Abundant Life Pregnancy Resource Center and their services, please visit www.abundantlifeprc.com.

For details about the RVTAA & NRVIA EXPO and the National RV Training Academy, visit www.nrvtaexpo.com.

Media Contact: Tony Flammia [email protected]

Image: Terry Cooper speaking to the EXPO Attendees

The post RV Techs, Inspectors Raise Nearly $13K for Pregnancy Center first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Lippert Components, Inc. (Lippert), announced the successful completion of its latest Built to Serve event in Fort Wayne. Lippert leadership from northern Indiana and Ohio came together to support Shepherd’s House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing long-term residential support for homeless veterans struggling with alcohol and chemical dependencies, as well as mental health challenges. 

As part of Lippert’s ongoing Built to Serve initiative, which encourages team members to give back to the communities where they live and work, leaders from across the company volunteered their time and resources to assist Shepherd’s House in enhancing its facility and supporting its mission of veteran recovery. The day’s activities included organizing donations, assisting with maintenance projects, and providing support to staff who work tirelessly to help these men and women regain their independence. 

“At Lippert, we are deeply committed to supporting those who have served our country,” said Michilah Grimes, Social Impact Strategist at Lippert. “Our Built to Serve events are an important part of our company culture, and we are proud to collaborate with organizations like Shepherd’s House, whose work is vital in providing a path to recovery for veterans in need.” 

Shepherd’s House offers a structured, long-term residential program for veterans recovering from alcoholism, chemical dependency, or mental health issues. The program emphasizes dignity, self-sufficiency, and the development of a solid foundation of sobriety. Veterans participating in the program work closely with professional staff to create personalized recovery plans, focusing on education, therapy, and building effective support systems. 

“We are incredibly grateful for Lippert’s support,” said Tracey Barr, Director of Veteran Outreach for Shepherd’s House. “Their generosity not only impacts the physical environment here but also reminds our veterans that they are valued members of the community. This partnership helps us move closer to our vision of empowering veterans to become self-sufficient, employed, and hopeful for their future.” 

The Built to Serve initiative, launched in October 2023, continues to strengthen Lippert’s commitment to community service and team unity. As the third event in this ongoing program, it brings together Lippert leaders and team members from different locations to address critical community needs while fostering deeper connections across its diverse workforce. Through hands-on engagement and shared experiences, Lippert is not just building a team; it is nurturing a family united by its vision of using Business as a Force for Good in the World.

The post Lippert Teams with Shepherd’s House Nonprofit in Ft. Wayne first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is holding its third annual Leadership Conference at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, Ariz., on Tuesday, March 4-6, 2025.

This two-day event provides attendees with networking and leadership development opportunities. Attendees will also experience motivating presentations from speakers such as Chris Duffy, who will be the keynote speaker on Wednesday, March 5, according to an RVIA News & Insights report.

Chris Duffy is a comedian, television writer, and radio/podcast host. Chris currently hosts the hit podcast “How to Be a Better Human”. You can watch his comedic TED talk, “How to find laughter anywhere” online. He has appeared on Good Morning America, ABC News, NPR, and National Geographic Explorer. Chris wrote for both seasons of Wyatt Cenac’s Problem Areas on HBO, executive produced by John Oliver. 

Chris is the creator/host of the streaming game show Wrong Answers Only, where three comedians try to understand what a leading scientist does all day, in partnership with LabX at the National Academy of Sciences. Chris is both a former fifth grade teacher and a former fifth grade student. 

Registration is still open for the 2025 Leadership Conference! Register here.

The post Chris Duffy to Keynote RV Leadership Conference in Arizona first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

New federally backed electric vehicle chargers will continue to appear along U.S. highways no matter which president sits in the Oval Office, according to a report by Automotive News.

The Biden administration’s plan to line highways across the U.S. with federally funded electric vehicle chargers will remain in place once Donald Trump becomes president next month, experts say.

“It would take almost an act of God for Trump or Congress to overturn” the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program, said Loren McDonald, chief analyst at Paren, which recently acquired McDonald’s EV Adoption firm.

That’s because much of the $5 billion that underpins the initiative has already been doled out to the states. The remainder was preapproved. Policymakers designed the five-year program, which started in 2021, to help states create a network of public charging stations in 50-mile intervals along interstates.

Click here to reads the full report by Automotive News.

The post EV Infrastructure Should Continue to Expand Under Trump? first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

In this episode of the “OEM Showcase: On Location,” a video series produced by RVBusiness, Trent Brickner of Heartland RV highlights the 2025 features for the Corterra brand of fifth0wheels and travel trailers.

The post OEM Showcase: Overview of the 2025 Heartland Corterra first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a Dec. 16 communication from the RV Dealers Association of Canada to its members.

This afternoon, government House Leader Karina Gould tabled the Fall Economic Statement (FES) on behalf of the new Minister of Finance, Dominic LeBlanc, and the federal government. The FES follows the resignation of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon. Chrystia Freeland, earlier this morning. Minister LeBlanc will now serve as the Prime Minister’s steady hand as Minister of Finance, in addition to his roles as Minister of Public Safety and Intergovernmental Affairs.

The FES provides an opportunity for the federal government to share an update on current finances and highlight priorities. Compared to typical timelines for the release, this year’s announcement comes after a significant delay and during a period of great uncertainty for the federal government. Affordability and the cost-of-living crisis remain top-line agenda items, with Prime Minister Trudeau recently announcing measures such as the GST/HST break and business-focused tax breaks and incentives. The FES also features updates and commitments to housing and infrastructure development, capital investment in Canadian innovation, and investment tax credits to support the industrial transition, among other key priorities, to increase productivity and sustain wage growth.

In response to the looming 25% tariffs promised by President-elect Donald Trump and pressure from Premiers, the federal government plans to invest in supporting the Canada Border Services Agency, the RCMP, Public Safety Canada, and the Communications Security Establishment, although the details of this remain vague. They are “focused on countering the U.S. threat of tariffs while fostering a stable and competitive business investment climate.”

In areas of particular concern to the RVDA of Canada, the 2024 Fall Economic Statement announces that the federal government is considering further measures to create a more nimble and resilient labour market that supports newcomer integration into their chosen professions. This includes removing the tax-exempt status of regulatory colleges that do not accelerate credential recognition and publishing a national credential recognition performance framework.

RVDA of Canada has been heavily involved in workforce development discussions with this government. While the difficulties highlighted by the industry seem to have been understood, details on these changes will only be presented in the next federal budget. It will be interesting to see how these promises are maintained if the current government sustains a loss of confidence and elections are triggered.

The Leader of the Official Opposition, the Hon. Pierre Poilievre, posted online that the Liberals forced former Minister Freeland “through the fiscal guardrail and Canadians off the debt cliff” and reiterated the Conservatives’ intention to take a common-sense approach to supporting Canadians.

The federal government has failed to hold its commitment to keep the deficit at or below $40.1 billion. The deficit for the 2023-2024 fiscal year totaled $62 billion. Last week, the Bank of Canada cut interest rates from 3.75% to 3.25% — factors that influenced this decision included weaker-than-expected GDP and slowing economic growth. Ahead of 2025, the federal government continues to contend with the ongoing affordability and cost-of-living crisis, rising unemployment rates, and pressure from opposition parties and the public alike to deliver relief and support to Canadians. The federal cabinet is also in significant disarray and is expected to be shuffled shortly.

Other measures in the Fall Economic Statement (FES) potentially of interest to RVDA of Canada include:

The government’s intent to introduce legislative amendments to the Customs Act to grant the Canada Border Services Agency new authorities to inspect goods destined for export as a means to crack down on auto theft. This will include requiring warehouse operators and shippers to provide adequate accommodations for CBSA officers to carry out their mandate.

The government’s intention to amend the Criminal Code to make bail and sentencing laws stricter to better respond to the severity of auto theft, break and enter, extortion, and arson crimes committed by repeat, violent, and organized crime offenders.

The post Canadian Government Generates Fall Economic Statement first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a release from the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). You can watch OIA’s full webinar recording here.

The 2024 election resulted in a dynamic political landscape with significant policy implications for outdoor industry businesses, particularly in overseas manufacturing and exporting. During our industry-wide webinar this December, OIA convened policy experts, government affairs representatives, and attendees to share insights and answer questions about tariffs, trade policies, and broader regulatory challenges under the new administration. Read on for key takeaways from the session and answers to some of the industry’s most pressing questions. 

Key Takeaways 

• The outdoor recreation industry contributes $1.2 trillion to U.S. GDP and supports over 5 million jobs, underscoring its importance as an economic driver. 
• Early and consistent engagement with the new administration and 119th Congress is critical to ensure the industry’s voice is heard on issues like trade, public land management, and sustainability. 
• Businesses should prepare for potential new tariffs on China, Vietnam, and Mexico, emphasizing the need for supply chain diversification and proactive communication with policymakers and consumers. 
• Circularity, product durability, and recyclable materials are becoming regulatory priorities, offering both challenges and opportunities for companies to innovate. 
• Leveraging robust economic and sustainability data is essential for advancing policy goals and demonstrating the industry’s contributions. 

Tariffs and Trade Policy

How soon could the administration implement tariffs on outdoor products? 

The administration is expected to act quickly on tariffs, with announcements potentially coming as early as Inauguration Day. Tariffs targeting countries with significant trade deficits, such as China, Vietnam, and Mexico, are anticipated. Businesses should be prepared for swift changes. 

Should manufacturers move operations out of China? 

While moving operations out of China may help mitigate risks, it’s important to avoid over-reliance on a single alternative, such as Vietnam, which may also face tariffs. Companies are encouraged to adopt a diversified multi-country sourcing strategy and consider onshoring and nearshoring opportunities to reduce dependency on high-risk regions. 

Mitigating Tariff Impacts

What can companies do to mitigate the impacts of increased tariffs? 

Diversifying supply chains is critical. Businesses should explore sourcing alternatives, including domestic production. Additionally, clear communication with consumers about the impacts of tariffs—such as breaking down costs on receipts—can raise awareness and drive advocacy. 

Will there be reforms to the 321 Program? 

Changes to the de minimis program under Section 321 are likely, with restrictions expected on categories like apparel and footwear. Companies should monitor legislative developments to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Advocacy and Engagement

How can companies advocate for their policy priorities and when should they engage with the new administration? 

Early engagement is essential. Advocacy efforts should begin as soon as the administration and Congress take office, emphasizing the industry’s economic contributions and the impacts of proposed policies. Coordinated campaigns, like participation in OIA’s Capitol Summit, are effective in amplifying these efforts. 

Will there be opportunities for coordinated advocacy efforts? 

Yes, coordinated advocacy initiatives, such as Capitol Summit and coalition campaigns, will provide platforms for engaging policymakers. Businesses are encouraged to join these efforts to ensure their voices are heard. OIA is here to facilitate any advocacy efforts that members are interested in. 

Broader Sustainability and Regulatory Trends

Do you see a shift in how retailers approach sustainability and climate goals? 

 Retailers were the among the first to incentivize sustainable practices, such as circularity, setting targets for emissions, and reduced packaging, from their supplying brands. After the election, there has been no indication that outdoor retailers will de-emphasize their sustainability and climate goals. They are committed to science-based targets and still have to comply with European regulations. 

What trends in sustainability should companies prepare for? 

 Regulatory focus is shifting toward circularity, with initiatives like California’s textile circularity laws paving the way. Businesses should prepare to align with sustainability goals through durable, repairable, and recyclable product designs. European regulation if often reflected in emerging state regulations, so supply chain traceability and data transparency could also be on the horizon. 

Looking Ahead

The post-election environment presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Tariffs, trade policies, and sustainability regulations will require strategic planning and advocacy. By staying informed and engaged, companies can navigate these changes effectively, ensuring resilience and long-term success. 

For further discussion or questions, feel free to reach out to [email protected] or join our upcoming webinars to stay ahead of policy developments! 

The post Key Post-Election Policy Implications for Outdoor Industry first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

On Jan. 1, the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) will be changing its prices, according to a News & Insights report by the RV Industry Association (RVIA). Individual Subscriptions will now cost $630 and the Location Subscription will be $1,575. Additionally, the price to become an Authorized Learning Partner will be $3,150 and the retest fee will go from $75 to $80. 

Please note that you can still sign up for an Individual Subscription, Location Subscription, or Authorized Learning Partnership through the end of 2024 to receive the current rate.

The RV Technical Institute’s technician training program is the RV industry’s gold standard. We leveraged decades of industry experience and partnered with the top RV manufacturer and supplier leaders in the field to develop the most up-to-date and influential RV technician training program ever built. 

Learn more about the RV Technical Institute here.

The post RV Technical Institute Sets Modest Price Increase for 2025 first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.