Encore RV Offers ‘X-Trek’ Trailer at Lower Price Point

ELKHART, Ind. – When manufacturers cut features to lower a trailer’s price, quality often takes a hit, according to a press release from Encore RV.

“At Encore, we believe that’s never an option,” said company founder Rich Schnippel. “That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce the all-new ROG X-Trek Adventure Trailers, delivering exceptional value without compromising quality.”

The new units are available in two popular floor plans: the 12RK-XT, which sleeps 2 to 3; and the 12BH-XT, which sleeps 2 to 5.

X-Trek is lightweight, easy-to-tow, and fits inside a standard-size garage. As comfortable off-grid as it is in the campground you won’t find yourself sacrificing quality or amenities when you consider all that X-Trek has to offer, the release stated.

Standard features include:

  • 100% Wood-Free Construction
  • Roof Mount A/C
  • LP Furnace w/20# LP Tank
  • Roof Rack – Four Crossbars – 400lbs Total Capacity
  • Hi-Gloss Fiberglass Exterior
  • One-Piece Fiberglass Roof (Walk-On)
  • Seamless Composite Flooring
  • All-Aluminum, All-Tube Frame & Chassis
  • 60″ X 80″ X 8″ Futon/Mattress
  • 43-Gallons Freshwater (12RK-XT)
  • 26-Gallons Freshwater (12BH-XT)
  • 70″ X 54″ Elevated Bunk (12BH-XT)
  • Aluminum Cabinetry
  • Heavy-Duty, Walk-On Fenders
  • ST235/75R15 Off-Road Tires on Aluminum Wheels
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Full-Size Spare on Steel Wheel
  • Torsion Axle w/Electric Brakes
  • Tri-Bond 360 Construction
  • 2-Year Bumper-to-Hitch & 5-Year Structural Warranty

MSRP is $20,249.

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Airxcel Inc. Announces the Promotion of Keith Walker

Keith Walker

WICHITA, Kan. – Airxcel Inc. officials are pleased to announce the promotion of Keith Walker to Director of Product Marketing, Branding and Events, according to a release.

In his new role, Walker will execute strategic marketing initiatives across Airxcel’s diverse brand portfolio, with a keen focus on optimizing aftermarket sales and enhancing in-store retail merchandising. His expertise will also drive Airxcel’s evolving event strategies and high-impact product launches, reinforcing the company’s reputation for innovation and customer experiences.

Walker began his career at Airxcel in 2010 as a print shop team member at Suburban. In 2014, he was promoted to marketing manager for multiple brands, and in 2019, he took on a leadership role as Branding and Events Manager.

Commenting on Walker’s promotion, Piar Adams, Vice President of Marketing, Aftermarket and International Sales, said, “Walker’s promotion reflects Airxcel’s confidence in his leadership, strategic vision, and dedication to the company’s continued growth and innovation.”

About Airxcel, Inc.

Airxcel is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of the most critically functional products for the RV industry. Headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, the Airxcel family of brands includes 18 companies with 15 facilities across the U.S. and Europe. Airxcel.com

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Claude Donati: Making a Difference in the RV Industry

Claude Donati

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a News & Insights report by the RV Industry Association (RVIA).

Claude Donati, Managing Member at Nexus RV, has been making his mark on the RV industry for almost 30 years. 

After graduating from Indiana University Bloomington with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, he initially worked in the winery business. It was during this time he learned  the art of   selling and managing accounts—an important skill to have in his eventual career path.

Claude set his sights on the RV industry after conversations with his friends who were involved in the sector. “I met with a couple of my friends at a reunion. They were in the RV industry, and they shared the dynamics of the RV business with me,” he explains. 

Inspired, Claude made the decision to switch his career and join the RV world. He became part of the sales team at Gulf Stream Coach and spent 15 years with the company.

“At Gulf Stream, I started in the sales world and Class Cs in particular. A year into that I was promoted, and I’ve been in management ever since,” Claude explains. “My role at Gulf Stream evolved from a Regional Sales Manager to a National Sales Manager to Vice President of Sales to Vice President of the Motorhome Division.” 

Claude looks back on this time as a crucial part of his career path: ”While I was at Gulf Stream I had the fortunate opportunity to work with the Shea family. Jim Shea Sr., who had passed away during my final few years there, was legendary.” 

 “Being around those entrepreneurs helped me understand the business, and I learned a lot in those roles. I was in the room and allowed to observe when big decisions were being made, so it was a very rewarding period,” he adds.

In 2010, Claude started a new phase of his career by co-founding Nexus RV with Dave Middleton. “During the recession the whole environment changed dramatically, and it sparked an opportunity for me to consider going off on my own. As the market constricted, I knew that if I was ever going to do it, I should do it then— I was young enough to muscle through the process of starting a company.”

“And so, my business partner, Dave Middleton, who was my National Sales Manager at Gulf Stream, went with me to raise capital in the private sector in the middle of the recession.” Claude also notes he had the support of some longtime friends who were also involved in the industry, including Tim Hoffman, one of the founding members of Heartland RV, Joe Luther, an industry veteran who currently works for Keystone and many others.

“We were able to find good engineers, good workers, and good production people,” Claude says. “Although the market wasn’t buying units at the time, we were able to set up the company.”

As a result, for its first eight years, Nexus RV sold units factory direct. “We got to know our customers very well. We understood the dealer network, how to do a deal, and how to handle parts and service.” However, as Nexus RV continued to grow, the company changed its business model in 2018 and transitioned to a dealer model, connected with dealerships across the country. 

Now, 15 years since launching Nexus RV, Claude is looking forward to the possibilities ahead. “It feels like there’s been new opportunities every step of the way, from starting the company during the recession to changing from factory direct. And now there’s a second-generation joining Nexus RV who have a real interest in the company.”

As for what’s on the entrepreneurial horizon, Claude explains: “We are considering getting into the towable market or the commercial vehicle market. As a smaller company we can pivot quickly, and, with this second generation joining the company, it makes sense to expand our portfolio into the towable market.”

“Our vision is becoming longer-term in terms of product offering— Nexus RV has taken the last year to improve every product we make with new interiors, new paint schemes, better floorplans, and higher quality components, while lowering our prices.”

Currently, as Managing Member of Nexus RV, Claude oversees the entire company through a group of directors and a general manager. “This includes sales, production, finance, dealer network, investments, real estate, vendor relationships, product direction,” he says. He gives credit to the company’s five directors, who do “outstanding work”: Cindy Hathaway, Parts and Service; Rachel Baird, Director of Finance; Alexis Yeoman, Director of Purchasing and OPS; Rick Potter, General Manager; and Gary Yeoman, National Sales Manager.

In addition to his responsibilities at Nexus, Claude is eager to become more involved with the RV Industry Association. “I have been a huge supporter of the Association’s activities both early in my career and now as the owner of Nexus RV. Our company became a member of the Association almost immediately.” 

He continues: “I have a great relationship with their team. I’ve been super supportive of all the initiatives the Association put together. There are some awesome things that they’ve helped us accomplish in terms of their advocacy efforts, as well as with their advertising and industry awareness campaigns. I would love to become more involved.”

Additionally, Claude and Nexus RV are eager to make a difference in the local Elkhart community by supporting the YWCA and its Safe Haven program. The service provides a range of supportive resources for women who are experiencing domestic violence. “For us, it’s a big priority, partly because 50% of our workforce are women,” he says. “When we first introduced our involvement with the YWCA, the feedback I received was very rewarding.” He adds that he is currently a board member at the YWCA and a few Nexus RV employees are on committees there.

Ultimately, Claude aims to bring more awareness to domestic violence and provide women and children access to assistance in Elkhart through YWCA’s Safe Haven women’s shelter. His strategy for achieving this is a simple but effective one: “I would like for there to be a little pamphlet— the size of a business card— in the stall of every woman’s restroom in Elkhart county. It would have information to help women who are experiencing domestic violence— or a woman who knows someone experiencing it— and the sheet is discreet enough to hide in a pocket or shoe.” 

“I’d like us to start with Elkhart because this is the home of our industry,” he says. “Everyone— whether an operator, general manager, or company owner— can get on board with this effort. We’d like to see this idea expand and gain traction.” 

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Chandler McGhee Appointed COO at Fun Town RV

Chandler McGhee

Fun Town RV announces the appointment of Chandler McGhee as Chief Operating Officer, effective Dec. 1. Chandler currently serves as Chief Innovation Officer, a role he has held since 2022. Chandler has been an instrumental member of Fun Town RV, formally joining the team in 2018.

It is with mixed emotions that company officials also announce the retirement of esteemed COO Jeff England, the release continued. He has been an invaluable part of the company since 2019. Over the past years, England has made an extraordinary impact, helping to drive the company’s growth, strengthen its operations, and uphold its commitment to excellence.

“We are deeply grateful for Jeff’s vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication during his tenure,” the release stated. “While we will miss his day-to-day presence, we are thrilled that he will remain part of the team as an advisor to our new COO. His insights and expertise will continue to guide us as we navigate the path ahead.Please join us in thanking Jeff for his remarkable contributions and wishing him all the best in this next chapter. We look forward to celebrating his legacy and the continued partnership in this new capacity.”

Jeff England

“It has been a true pleasure to have had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most genuine and hardworking people that I have ever been associated with,” England said. “I truly feel that I can say that I learned as much from them as they did from me. Please join me in congratulating Chandler as he now takes over my current role as Chief Operating Officer at Fun Town RV”

“I am truly honored to accept this new position and to serve as second in command alongside my father Jarrod McGhee,” said Chandler McGhee. “His guidance and unwavering support has been instrumental in shaping my growth and success. I look forward to building on his incredible legacy and contributing to the continued success of the company. I also thank Jeff for his mentorship, friendship and am grateful to have his continued support in this new position”

“It’s with great excitement and pride that we make this announcement, Chandler has worked his way up through the ranks of the company diligently and become an essential part of the leadership team. On a personal note seeing my son feel the same passion and commitment to the company that he helped me build , fills me with a pride that is hard to put into words,” said Jarrod “The Mayor” McGhee.

“I would also like to thank Jeff for the dedication and service to the company he has shown over the years,” Jarrod McGhee continued. “It brings me great comfort knowing Chandler will have Jeff to mentor him as he takes on this new and challenging role in the company. I learned a lot of my good lessons and habits working for and with Jeff over the years and I am sure he will be a great asset to Chandler in the years to come.”

About Fun Town RV

Headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, Fun Town RV operates locations across Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, and Arkansas. Since its founding in 2010, Fun Town RV has seen explosive growth and continues to pursue an aggressive national expansion strategy. With ambitious plans to establish a dominant presence in key markets, Fun Town RV remains focused on becoming the go-to RV dealership across the U.S.

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David Epstein to Keynote 2025 Leadership Conference

David Epstein

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will be hosting its third annual Leadership Conference, March 4-6, 2025, at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, Ariz. This immersive two-day event offers meaningful networking opportunities and leadership development. Attendees will also hear from inspiring speakers such as David Epstein, who will be serving at the keynote speaker on March 6, according to an RVIA News & Insights report. 

David Epstein obsesses over mistranslations of scientific research and tries to temper the misconceptions that follow them. He is the author of the No. 1 New York Times bestseller “Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World” (which was a finalist for the Financial Times/McKinsey business book of the year) and of the New York Times bestseller “The Sports Gene: Inside the Science of Extraordinary Athletic Performance.” Both books have been translated into more than 30 languages, and the latter was purchased not only by his sister, but also by President Barack Obama and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. 

Epstein’s two TED Talks on human performance have been viewed more than 12 million times. He was previously an investigative reporter at ProPublica and a senior writer at Sports Illustrated

Click here to register for this conference.

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RVshare Travel Trend Report Sees Growth, Opportunity

AUSTIN, Texas and AKRON, Ohio – Today, RVshare, the largest community for RV owners and renters, unveiled The 2025 Travel Trend Report, the brand’s sixth annual research survey and data analysis.

This year’s Travel Trend Report forecasts a year of growth and opportunity for the travel industry. Conducted by Wakefield Research and commissioned by RVshare, the 2025 findings reveal Americans’ desire to travel remains strong with 90% of Americans planning to travel at least as much next year as they did in 2024.

However, 2025 is seeing shifts in consumer behavior as travelers will prioritize vacations that serve them more meaningfully next year, even if that means traveling less frequently and spending more.

In 2024, millions traveled for April’s total solar eclipse, heading to destinations along the path of totality, and the concerts and sporting events that fueled a record-breaking year of “gig-tripping.” Those intense passions will continue to influence purchase behavior for the year ahead, as Americans report growing interest in trips planned around food and music to history, favorite sports teams and books.

Enthusiasm for RV travel also remains exceptionally strong, pacing upward for the fourth consecutive year. More than half (60%) of people planning to travel next year are considering a road trip or vacation in an RV.As Americans channel their passions and allow those interests to fuel their 2025 travels, they will not sacrifice quality, opting to invest in longer, more meaningful trips, nomadic yet laid-back itineraries, and new experiences with loved ones. Americans value the opportunities travel provides and are ready to take a tactful approach to spending to make the most of their 2025 adventures, even if it means working while traveling next year.

“We’re constantly exploring consumer attitudes across the travel industry to better understand what drives Americans’ decisions and desires,” said RVshare’s CEO Jon Gray. “As we look to 2025 and the future of travel, we understand that quality reigns supreme. Rather than ticking off destinations, this year’s Trend Report illustrates that Americans are yearning for more intentional travel and captivating experiences – especially when it comes to road trips. It’s about cherishing time with loved ones, letting hobbies guide the way, and finding a balance between exploration and relaxation. Whether travelers are dreaming about indulging in a gourmet meal at a viral restaurant from social media, hiking a historic trail, or shopping for eclectic local finds, RVshare’s expansive inventory has an option for any road trip. We’re excited to fuel this new kind of adventure – where the journey itself becomes just as important as the destination, if not more.”

RVshare’s top five travel trends for the year ahead, pulled directly from original survey data provided by American travelers, are as follows:

Quality Takes Precedence

As travelers continue to evolve their preferences, an emphasis on quality over quantity is emerging. Nearly two-thirds of travelers plan to allocate their budgets this year toward fewer but more meaningful trips. This trend underscores a growing desire for more immersive, high-value experiences. Alongside this, the tradition of annual trips is experiencing a resurgence. Nearly half of the survey’s respondents are planning more leisure trips in 2025, and over half of travelers are planning a trip with family or friends, marking a 10-point increase from last year. RVshare welcomes guests of all ages to explore the wonder and excitement of RV travel, and is dedicated to making it more accessible for families and group travelers. In fact, RVshare is acclaimed for this commitment, having just recently been recognized as a third-time winner of Good Housekeeping’s Family Travel Awards.

  • Parents, specifically, are driving the surge in annual travel, with 67% planning to take part.
  • 65% of travelers are prioritizing spending quality time with family during 2025.

With high-quality experiences on travelers’ minds, it’s no surprise that they are also focused on planning trips around individual passions, hobbies, and interests – and will spend the money to make it happen.

Passion-Driven Travel

Passion-Driven travel is on the rise with avid pursuitists leading the charge. Younger travelers—notably Gen Z and Millennials—are seeking inspiration for their trips from personal passions. RVshare’s Trend Report found that travelers are most interested in planning trips around food, music, sports, movies, fashion, and wellness. Gen Z and Millennials are more inclined to plan trips around these specific interests; while Boomers, in contrast, primarily gravitate toward history-based travel, such as national monuments and historically significant sites. To that end, nearly all travelers (94%) say they would consider planning a trip centered around a passion and many are willing to travel great lengths to pursue these cravings.

  • More than half of respondents would take a cross-country or even international trip based around a passion.
  • While wellness tourism has been largely touted as the future of travel, just 1 in 5 people claim they would book a trip around wellness, compared to 3 in 5 who would book a trip around food and/or history.
  • Outside of individual passions and hobbies, first-hand travel recommendations from family and friends are still significantly influential. 71% of Boomers, 61% of Gen X, and 55% of Millennials report that they typically turn to family and friends when seeking travel inspiration and advice.
  • For Gen Z, viral content on social media is important inspiration, as 58% look to viral content for travel destinations and trip ideas.

Splurgecations

In order to up the enjoyment factor and indulge in memorable experiences that aren’t typically part of everyday life, travelers are willing to embrace “splurgecations.” Nearly three-quarters of travelers are eager to treat themselves by spending a little more. For many, though, splurging is not just about spending money—it’s about enhancing the overall travel experience; almost 70% of travelers say splurging makes their trip more enjoyable, while others are motivated by the desire to create lasting memories (59%), bond with family and friends (50%), or seize once-in-a-lifetime opportunities (49%). What’s more, Americans are so determined to take these amazing trips that they’re often willing to work while away; 62% of employed Americans are allowed to work remotely while on personal travel and almost 80% of these employees plan to do so in 2025.

  • The top four categories for splurging while traveling include dining (57%), attractions (51%), shopping (47%) and outdoor adventures (44%).

Nomadic Vibes, Restful Rides

While travelers are eager for adventure, they also seek a relaxed, stress-free experience—one that allows them to explore new destinations at their own pace, savoring each moment without the pressure of a packed itinerary. The Trend Report shows that while planning their next journey, travelers may be looking to balance the familiarity of family with the novelty of new places (from 46% last year to 54% this year). They are not looking to simply sit back and enjoy familiar settings, as there has been an increase in the desire to explore new places. That said, while 1 in 5 travelers are looking to meet new people and be more physically active, over half are looking for laid-back trips focused on relaxation, ensuring that comfort and quality continue to be at the heart of travel plans next year.

  • Top values travelers consider are spending quality time with family (65%), relaxing and unwinding (62%), and discovering new places and enjoying nature/wildlife (54%).
  • Americans seem ready to embrace a more nomadic approach to travel, as 44% of travelers are planning more domestic travel and 41% are planning longer trips for 2025 (a 10-point increase over last year).

And, the ways in which Americans are trip planning is also transforming. The Trend Report finds that many travelers believe that AI planning tools can help save money, save trip planning time, consider factors they would forget, and present hidden gems for itineraries. Nearly a third of Americans report already using AI tools for trip planning, up 12 points from last year’s report, and more than three-quarters of travelers are intrigued to use AI-based tools to plan their next trip, a 14-point spike over last year.

  • Millennials in particular are embracing AI, with close to half having done so already, compared to 35% of Gen Z, 25% of Gen X, and 10% of Boomers.
  • Around half of travelers are attracted to AI tools to help identify the most efficient itinerary (up 11 points) and to help choose the right destination for their dates and interest (up 12 points).More than half of travelers are also more keen on using AI-based travel guides this year (up 13 points).

RV Travel Trends

RVshare’s 2025 Travel Trend Report signifies another monumental year for RV travel with substantial interest in RVs, not only as a mode of transportation but also as a preferred choice for accommodations. Heading into 2025, American travelers explained their preference for road tripping over flying, noting they want to better predict travel costs, have the flexibility to change travel schedules and avoid additional fees for extra luggage. With hassle-free travel at the forefront, consumers are also increasingly choosing RVshare’s popular delivery amenity (offered by over 70% of RVshare’s inventory), which provides the most seamless travel experience; 44% of RVshare bookings this year opted to have their RV delivered to their campground or destination of choice. It’s perhaps because of these benefits that a majority of travelers (60%) are planning a road trip or vacation in an RV in the next 12 months, including a significant 12-point year-over-year uptick in the number of Gen X travelers planning these trips in 2025.

  • Nearly two-thirds of travelers would consider renting an RV for a future trip.
  • Interest in RVs as an accommodation also increased this year, up to 47%of travelers citing an RV or motorhome as a preferred type of accommodation for 2025 travels.
  • Travelers are considering RVs for trips beyond camping: to a national park or scenic area (67%), multi-day festival (63%), and tailgating event (53%).
  • According to RVshare, the top destination for 2025 is Grand Canyon, Arizona, with the top new destination to lookout for in 2025 as Acadia National Park, Maine.

RVshare’s full 2025 Travel Trend Report is viewable here. For additional information about RVshare, visit rvshare.com

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NHTSA Releases its Most Recent Installment of RV Recalls

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the latest list of RV recalls compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Per strict NHTSA protocols, manufacturers will next notify its dealer partners of the recall notice. Each notice will include details of the affected vehicles as well as the appropriate remedy.

Forest River Inc. is recalling two 2025 Cedar Creek CRT40RDE Fifth Wheel trailers. Undersized axles and tires may have been installed, which can lead to a tire detaching. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 120, “Wheels and Rims – Other Than Passenger Cars.” Dealers will replace axles and tires, free of charge. The two affected vehicles have not been sold from dealer inventory and therefore no owner letters will be mailed. Forest River’s customer service number is 1-260-593-4000. Forest River’s number for this recall is 20-1873.

Forest River Inc. is recalling 357 2024-2025 Viking and Clipper travel trailers. The fresh water holding tank support bracket may be the incorrect gauge and may break. Dealers will replace the support bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Dec. 31. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-269-467-8283. Forest River’s number for this recall is 51-1870.

Brinkley RV (Brinkley) is recalling 466 2024-2025 Model Z Fifth Wheel trailers equipped with Curt Helux Pin Boxes. The pin box fasteners may have been improperly tightened. Dealers will tighten the fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed in December 2024. Owners may contact Brinkley customer service at 1-574-501-4280. Brinkley’s number for this recall is REC-2405.

Winnebago Industries Inc. is recalling 632 2024-2025 Ekko travel trailers. The wheel bolts may not have been installed, allowing the spare tire to detach. Dealers will provide wheel bolts and wrench for installation, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed Jan. 23. Owners may contact Winnebago customer service at 1-800-537-1885. Winnebago’s number for this recall is 193.

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AL-KO Vehicle Technology Rebrands Bankside Patterson

AL-KO Vehicle Technology is rebranding its UK-based Bankside Patterson business to the trusted brand AL-KO, according to a release.

“For many years, AL-KO has been recognized as a leader and a strong and dependable brand within the transportation and mobility industry. During the past several years, AL-KO’s steady growth has added new teammates, new customers, and new product offerings. To reduce the complexity of AL-KO’s brand portfolio, we are rebranding Bankside Patterson to AL-KO. Merging our two brands will provide much needed clarity and make it easier for our customers and other stakeholders to navigate our product portfolio,” stated Harald Hiller, president and CEO AL-KO Vehicle Technology Group.

Established in 1959, Bankside Patterson Ltd., based in Brandesburton/UK, has been a leading manufacturer of holiday home, park home and park lodge chassis offering customized solutions for complex constructional requirements. Bankside Patterson’s products for the holiday home industry has expanded and differentiated AL-KO’s product offering into static chassis applications since the acquisition in 2019.

Peter Eustace, Managing Director of AL-KO UK, adds: “Customers expect their suppliers and partners to minimize efficiency losses and to increase effectiveness. A uniform brand and a consistent brand identity create trust and transparency. Furthermore, additional impetus and more momentum can be expected in the acquisition of new key accounts. We thank the loyal customers and other stakeholders as well as the staff of Bankside Patterson and look forward to continuing our long-lasting relationship.”

Changes have been starting with the website content. Over the coming weeks and months, you will notice updates, including new signage, business cards, order documentation and many other items like social media channels that will transition to the AL-KO logo and company name.

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J.D. Power: RV Valuations See Seasonal Slide in Q3 Report

Valuations turned downward in the 3rd quarter, following a typical seasonal pattern,  according to J.D. Power’s 2024 3rd Quarter Market Insights Report. Aside from Camping Trailers and Truck Campers, values are similar to this time last year.

Looking at individual segments, the most recent 10 years of Standard Hitch trailer values averaged 5.8% lower in the September-October period compared to July-August, and 3.6% lower year-over-year. Fifth-wheel units averaged 4.8% lower in September-October compared to July-August, and 0.2% higher year-over-year.

In the Motorhome segment, Class A vehicles averaged 3.3% lower in September-October compared to July-August, and 1.7% higher year-over-year. Class C motorhomes averaged 4.4% lower in September-October compared to July-August, and 2.8% lower year-over-year.

Camping Trailer values were 7.9% lower in September-October compared to July-August and 10.9% lower year-over-year. Truck Campers averaged 4.0% lower in September-October compared to July-August and 5.8% lower year-over-year.

J.D. Powers’ second-half valuation declines are on pace with last year. Inventories and customer demand continue to move in the wrong direction, but market conditions are manageable at present.

J.D. Power is the largest publisher of the most market-reflective vehicle pricing and information available for new and used cars, classic cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs and manufactured homes, offers in-depth shopping and research tools including a broad range of data, products and service and informational articles as well as tips and advice. J.D. Power also produces electronic products, mobile applications, raw data, web services, web-syndicated products and print guidebooks. 

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Molino RV Learning Center Seeks Support on ‘Giving Tuesday’

FAIRFAX, Va. – On Dec. 3 – “Giving Tuesday” – take the opportunity to make a meaningful, tax-deductible year-end contribution to the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, states a press release from the organization. At this time of the year, tax-deductible contributions help enhance continuing education, industry-leading best practices, enhance employee retention, and foster outstanding customer satisfaction across the RV industry.

Earlier this year, Wave Express, one of North America’s largest RV transporters, pledged $100,000 to the RV Learning Center to provide funding at a critical time of increasing demand for its fixed operations educational programs that serve front-line dealer personnel. With continued industry support, that momentum can continue in 2025.

A new program, the RV Dealership Employee Emergency Relief Program, was also established in 2024 thanks to the support of the Ron & Lisa Fenech Family Foundation.  The program provides financial assistance to RV dealership employees experiencing hardship due to natural disasters and other catastrophic events that lead to major expense or loss of income.

Throughout the past year, the RV Learning Center expanded its reach and assisted hundreds of dealership staff by generating new, substantive educational content and achieving new heights of professional development across and throughout the RVDA membership.

Among other 2024 highlights:

  • Four online fixed operations training courses including the newest for Warranty Administrators are available — with a fifth course for Service Managers coming in the first quarter of 2025.
  • More than 1,000 professionals have been trained using the RV Learning Center online courses and a record number of individuals have downloaded the RV Fixed Operations Today Mobile App which includes free readiness test to help prepare staff for certification.
  • Established the Jaime Pais Legacy Fund to honor the late RV industry executive from Protective Asset Protection who passed away in 2024.  

For complete information on RV Learning Center programs, visit www.rvlearningcenter.com or watch a video here. To support industry education for front-line RV dealership employees and make a year-end contribution to the RV Learning Center, click here.

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.

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