Knaus Tabbert AG announced key leadership changes on Nov. 22 as part of its strategic plan to secure a sustainable and profitable future, according to a release from the European RV manufacturer. Wim de Pundert, a significant shareholder and current member of the supervisory board, has been appointed as the new CEO and CFO, effective immediately. Additionally, Radim Ševčík has been named Financial Director, reporting directly to the new CFO. Radim brings extensive financial expertise, having worked with firms such as Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Merrill Lynch, and most recently serving as investment officer for HTP Investments for the past four years.
Following those announcements, Knaus Tabbert AG issued a release to provide further details on the investigation by the public prosecutor and updates regarding the most recent decision by the Supervisory Board.
The Supervisory Board has been informed that two individuals within the company are currently subject to the ongoing investigation. As a result, the Supervisory Board has decided to terminate the contracts of Chief Operating Officer Werner Vaterl and Chief Sales Officer Gerd Adamietzki with immediate effect. Their direct reports will temporarily assume their operating responsibilities.
Regarding the investigation, the release continued, Knaus Tabbert is fully cooperating with the authorities. It is essential to emphasize that the company itself is currently not accused of any wrongdoing and is instead an injured party that has incurred damages. The extent of these damages remains under evaluation. We ask for your understanding that we are unable to provide any further information at early stage of the investigation.
This decision comes during a period of significant transformation. As noted earlier, Wim de Pundert has taken on the dual role of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, marking a change of direction in the company’s journey. In alignment with these changes, we have already initiated efforts to further strengthen our leadership team. This unexpected event will accelerate these efforts.
“We have initiated an internal review to identify any underlying causes that may have contributed to this situation. We are committed to implementing additional measures to prevent similar issues in the future, including the enhancement of internal processes and controls,” the release stated. “While this development is undoubtedly a challenge, it reaffirms our commitment to driving meaningful change within Knaus Tabbert and advancing the company’s strategic goals. We remain dedicated to shaping a robust and resilient organization, equipped to deliver on its vision for the future.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is from the RVDA of Canada.
The RVDA of Canada mourns the loss of Eldo Kunz, a beloved figure and tireless advocate for the RV industry. Eldo passed away on November 16, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of service, innovation, and community spirit.
A Passion for the RV Industry
Eldo Kunz’s journey from humble beginnings in Manitoba to becoming a trailblazer in the RV industry is a testament to his passion and determination. His early love for mechanics and engineering set the foundation for a career that spanned the automotive and recreational vehicle industries, where he quickly earned respect as a leader and innovator.
As an avid outdoorsman and camper, the RV industry was a natural fit for Eldo. In 1976, he and his wife, Betty, founded Hi-Way RV Land, combining their skills and dedication to build a thriving business. Eldo’s influence extended far beyond his company. He served on the RVDA of BC board and led as RVDA of Canada President from 1989 to 1990. He played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry, including helping to develop the Recreation Vehicle Technician apprenticeship program at Okanagan College and serving on the Trade Advisory Committee to the Provincial Apprenticeship Board.
His vision and dedication ensured that the industry would continue to thrive for generations to come.
A Legacy of Service and Community
Eldo’s commitment to community service was a defining aspect of his life. He was an active member of the Kinsmen Club, the Rotary Club of Langley, and K40. A devout Lutheran, Eldo was instrumental in establishing Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, where he served as Chairman of the church board and remained a dedicated member for over 50 years. His volunteerism also extended to the BC Vintage Truck Museum and cancer fundraising events such as Relay for Life.
Known for his kindness, humour, and love of storytelling, Eldo left behind a remarkable legacy of service and community involvement. He was celebrated for his reliability, honesty, and dependability, as well as his infectious laugh, love of music, patience, and generosity in sharing his knowledge and skills. Eldo’s warmth and storytelling ability made him a cherished presence in every community he touched.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Eldo’s family and friends. His profound contributions to the RV industry and his unwavering commitment to service will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
Campground owners and their guests will meet with quality vendors, learn about changes in camper demographics, and enjoy a happy hour with other friends in the industry, according to MARVAC officials.
Last year, the event hosted 13 vendors and had over 40 registered park owners.
Vendors still have a chance to register for the event and/or sponsor the event.
Booth prices for the event sit at $199 for members and $399 for non-members. with discounts available for those participating in the Detroit RV & Camping Show.
For campground owners/operators who want to attend the event, the cost to register is $24 (up to four attendees) for MARVAC members and $49 for non-MARVAC members.
The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index increased in November to 111.7, up 2.1 points from 109.6 in October. The Present Situation Index — based on consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions — increased by 4.8 points to 140.9. The Expectations Index — based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions — ticked up 0.4 points to 92.3, well above the threshold of 80 that usually signals a recession ahead. The cutoff date for preliminary results was Nov. 18.
“Consumer confidence continued to improve in November and reached the top of the range that has prevailed over the past two years,” said Dana M. Peterson, chief economist at The Conference Board. “November’s increase was mainly driven by more positive consumer assessments of the present situation, particularly regarding the labor market. Compared to October, consumers were also substantially more optimistic about future job availability, which reached its highest level in almost three years. Meanwhile, consumers’ expectations about future business conditions were unchanged and they were slightly less positive about future income.”
Among age groups, November’s gains were led by a large jump in confidence for consumers under 35 years old. Meanwhile, confidence among consumers aged 35 to 54 declined slightly after surging last month. All income groups reported higher confidence except those at the very top (earning over $125K) and bottom (earning less than $15K). On a six-month moving average basis, householders aged under 35 and those earning over $100K remained the most confident.
Peterson added: “The proportion of consumers anticipating a recession over the next 12 months fell further in November and was the lowest since we first asked the question in July 2022. Consumers’ assessments of their Family’s Current Financial Situation fell slightly but optimism for their finances over the next six months reached a new high. (These measures are not included in calculating the Consumer Confidence Index®).”
Consumers became even more optimistic about the stock market: 56.4% of consumers expected stock prices to increase over the year ahead, another record high for this measure. Only 21.3% expected stock prices to decline. The share of consumers expecting higher interest rates over the next 12 months declined to 43.6%. The share expecting lower rates increased to 34.6%, the highest since April 2020.
Meanwhile, average 12-month inflation expectations declined from 5.3% last month to 4.9% in November, the lowest since March 2020. In addition, references to inflation and prices declined in write-in responses, as attention and focus shifted to the US November elections. However, elevated prices remain top of mind: In a special question about concerns and hopes for 2025, consumers overwhelmingly selected higher prices as their top concern and lower prices as their top wish for the new year; this was true across all income and age groups. That same question found higher taxes, wars and conflict, and social unrest are other major—although less acute—concerns for consumers. Meanwhile, household finances completed the top of consumers’ wish list for 2025, including being able to save more money, paying lower taxes, and paying off debt.
On a six-month moving average basis, purchasing plans for homes stalled in November, while purchasing plans for autos were up slightly. When asked about plans to buy more durable goods or services over the next six months, consumers continued to express a slightly greater preference for purchasing goods. In addition, more consumers expressed uncertainty about future purchases. Consumer buying plans for most appliances and electronics were down. Regarding services, consumers’ priorities were little changed, but they planned to spend a bit less in most categories going forward, except for travel and health care.
Write-in responses about politics, including the November elections, surged to above 2020 levels but were below 2016 levels.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is hosting a critical webinar on the latest developments concerning the (California Air Resources Board (CARB) Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024.
During the webinar, participants will hear the latest on the regulation and the industry’s discussion with CARB. Webinar presenters will be RVIADirector of State Affairs Mike Ochs, and Jason Rano, RVIA’svice president of Government Affairs.
In 2025, California’s Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation, aimed at promoting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), will create a near-total “ban” on motorhome sales in the state, as well as in additional states that follow the California Air Resource Board (CARB) regulations. While the regulation does not specifically ban motorhome sales, the ACT regulation mandates manufacturers of medium and heavy-duty vehicles to sell an increasing percentage of ZEVs each year. This has led chassis manufacturers to halt sales of traditional internal combustion engine chassis for motorhomes in California, stemming from the lack of ZEV chassis suitable for motorhomes.
The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA) reports that RV wholesale shipments into Canada for the 3rd quarter, ending Sept. 30, totaled 5,552 units compared to 4,459 units in 2023, representing an increase of 24.5% year over year.
In addition, according data from Statistical Surveys Inc., the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based sub subsidiary of Trader Interactive that monitors retail and consumer data for the RV industry, RVDA of Canada reported that retail activity during the 3rd quarter totaled 10,826 units and when compared to the wholesale shipment figure of 5,552 units. Canadian RV Dealer Inventory levels significantly decreased during the period which would be considered normal historically.
The positive trend for the quarter contributed to a YTD shipment increase of 15.1%, or 22,860 units YTD, in 2024 vs. 19,865 units in 2023. Lower borrowing costs have made RV ownership more accessible, further fueling demand.
Fall RV shows across Canada attracted substantial consumer interest, facilitated dealer-consumer connections, and generated increased sales, providing a boost to the industry.
Looking ahead to the 4th quarter, officials anticipate continued steady demand as dealers replenish inventory to meet end-of-year and stocking for early RV shows in the new year.
With continued consumer interest, favorable financing conditions and the positive momentum seen from Fall RV shows across Canada, the Canadian RV industry is well-positioned for more growth in 2025.
Please contact CRVA or RVDA of Canada should you need any further information.
The staff at RVBusiness wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving. We will resume our daily newsfeed on Monday, Dec. 2, following the holiday break.
This Friday IDS will be hosting another installment of its Dealership Insights Forum. This month’s discussion, which will be at 11:30 a.m., EST, Friday, Dec. 20, will focus on: “RECT Recap: let’s take a look at Repair Event Cycle Times over the past year. What have been the biggest factors impacting RECT? What can we learn from this as we head into 2025?”
The IDS Dealership Insights Forum is a monthly meeting of minds with fellow dealers to discuss market trends, share best practices, and gain insight into how other dealers are running their day-to-day operations. In each session, officials will dive into topics like market trends and data, including RECT, sales and warranty, technology innovations, customer engagement strategies, and more.
The host is Don Miller, a senior data consultant at Constellation Dealer Group. With more than 30 years of experience in the industry, Miller provides training, consulting and analytical services to dealerships. He specializes in data analysis and works extensively to educate dealerships on adopting a data-driven decision model. Miller created the IDS RECT report, an RVDA Chairman’s Service Award-winning report. The report is used globally by dealerships to deliver better customer experiences.
RED BLUFF, Calif. — Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine announces the 2025 Boot Camp, offering two incredible opportunities to dive into the world of vintage trailer restoration. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just getting started, this year’s Boot Camp provides the “perfect combination of online accessibility and hands-on learning to equip attendees with the skills they need to restore and enjoy their vintage campers,” according to a release.
Online Restoration Summit Dates: March 1-2, 2025 Location: Online Learn the art and science of trailer restoration from the comfort of your own home! This two-day virtual summit features top-tier professionals sharing their expertise on everything from revamping interiors to mastering exterior repairs. Whether you want to spruce up a well-loved trailer or undertake a complete overhaul, this summit delivers the tools and know-how to succeed.
In-Person Boot Camp Dates: May 1-4, 2025 Location: Red Bluff, CA Join us for the 9th Annual Boot Camp, a fully immersive learning experience. Tailored to beginners and intermediate restorers, the event features courses by professionals covering the most popular aspects of vintage trailer restoration and Field Training Events where you can engage in practical, informal workshops to fine-tune your skills. Community Events include a potluck and evening gatherings, where you can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow trailer enthusiasts.
Thanks to its compact size, the RHC control panel can be easily installed in the driver’s cabin, providing maximum ease of use.
For many years, auxiliary air suspension systems have proven to be an effective solution for counteracting the heavy loads of motorhomes and commercial vehicles. By installing air-filled spring elements, the standard steel suspension is supported, and the rear of the vehicle is reliably raised. The control is manual, with the air pressure monitored via pressure gauges.
This practice, which has been in operation for decades, requires manual adjustments to ensure optimal air pressure for various load conditions. However, the pressure in the bellows only provides limited insight into the actual vehicle height. Even digital controls with analogue pressure displays cannot change this fact.
But what would actually provide the driver with more ease? The clear answer is an automatic solution that does not rely on the air pressure in the bellows, but directly takes the actual vehicle height into account. This is where Goldschmitt’s innovative RHC control system comes into play: Using precise height sensors, the actual vehicle height is monitored and automatically adjusted without the need for manual intervention.
“Pressure measurement thus becomes redundant – a huge relief in everyday use,” explained Markus Mairon, managing director of Goldschmitt techmobil GmbH, stated in a release from the Germany-based manufacturer of chassis and suspension technology, leveling systems and payload increases for motorhomes and transporter vans as well as ambulance, industrial and special vehicles.
Goldschmitt RHC Control System: Innovation and Comfort Combined
The new control system, called RHC (RideHeightControl), takes the use and operation of auxiliary air springs to the next level. Gone are the days of manual height adjustment and pressure monitoring via bulky gauges and pressure sensors. The RHC control system automatically maintains the optimal ride height under all loading conditions. Weight changes at the rear axle are detected by level sensors and passed to the control unit. This unit processes all relevant data, analyses it, and, if necessary, issues commands to adjust the pressure in the air springs. Load imbalances are automatically compensated, eliminating the risk of user error. Manual control is still possible, however. While stationary, the vehicle’s rear can be raised or lowered, for example, to make it easier to cross ramps or other obstacles. An LED light indicates when the vehicle is not at the preset ride height. The preset level can easily be recalled with the press of a button.
The smartphone app, available for both Android and iOS, offers the user even more functionality.
Sleek Control Panel and Intuitive Smartphone App
Aesthetics are not neglected with the RHC system either. Unlike conventional air suspension controls, the compact and extremely slim RHC control panel (57 x 32 x 2.5 mm) takes up little space in the vehicle’s interior and can be installed on any available flat surface. Installation is also simplified as there is no need for air hoses to be routed into the cab. Even more control options are available with the free smartphone app (iOS/Android). The app allows the user to control the functions of the control panel (level adjustment, raising and lowering) via their phone. Furthermore, users can independently adjust the left and right sides of the vehicle, and store an additional position. The app also provides access to extra information, including live data and an event log. Additionally, every installation service benefits from the plug-and-play solution and the simple commissioning interface.
Available from January 2025 at the introductory price of €1,399
The new auxiliary air suspension systems will be available from January 2025 for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper (from 2006), and Opel Mo- vano (from 2021). The introductory price (valid until 31st March 2025) is €1,399 (about $1,503 U.S.) plus installation and TÜV inspection. These systems will be exclusively available at the Goldschmitt Technik-Centres in Walldürn, Polch, and Leutkirch, as well as from all Goldschmitt Premium Partners. The complete price, including installation at the Goldschmitt Technik-Centres, is €1,999 ($2,158 U.S.) at launch. The RHC systems will initially be available for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Jumper (from 2006), and Opel Movano (from 2021).
The heart of the RHC® system is the compact valve block, which combines both air distribution and control in a single housing.
Key Advantages of the RHC Control System:
Automatic Level Control: Measurement via level sensors, not pressure sensors. This ensures the RHC control system automatically maintains the defined ride height, even when the vehicle height changes due to loading.
Compact Control Panel: With a width of just 57 mm, a height of 32 mm, and a thickness of 2.5 mm, the RHC control panel is aesthetically pleasing and space-saving.
Safety: The RHC system prevents user errors and alerts the driver with an LED light on the control panel when the ride height deviates.
Ease of Use: A simple tap of the finger is all it takes to activate the ride height, raise, or lower the rear of the vehicle. This improves the approach angle, making it easier to traverse ramps or steep inclines.
Intuitive Smartphone App: The smartphone app allows not only the activation of the ride height but also independent adjustment of the left and right sides. Additionally, an extra individual position can be stored.
Ease of Installation: The RHC air suspension systems are available as plug-and-play kits, significantly simplifying installation. The com- pressor and valve block come pre-assembled on a vehicle-specific mounting console, eliminating the need to route air lines into the driver’s cab.
Availability: The new RHC air suspension systems will be available from January 2025 for the Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, and Citroën Jumper (from 2006), as well as the Opel Movano (from 2021). Additional vehicle types will follow.
Introductory Price Until March 31, 2025: €1,399, plus installation and TÜV inspection. The complete price, including installation at Goldschmitt Technik-Centres, is €1,999.
