MOUNT PLEASANT, PA. – “Aliner would like to announce a new chapter in our journey as we welcome an incredible team of more than a dozen new dealers all across the United States,” notes Aliner CMO Jana Randall in a press release.
“As we continue our commitment to expanding access to high-quality campers across America in 2024, we are grateful to have these dedicated partners on board, sharing our passion for the great outdoors and bringing the adventure of Aliner to their communities,” Randall stated.
“In 2025, we feel it holds even more excitement for us as we look forward to the partnership ahead with our expanding network. Together, we’re poised to inspire and engage new customers, introducing them to the freedom and possibilities that Aliner represents,” she noted, adding, “In line with our drive for innovation, we are especially proud to unveil our all-new interiors for the 2025 lineup – thoughtfully designed to captivate audiences and enhance the camping experience with a fresh aesthetic and practical amenities.”
Allan Reeping, Director of Sales, added, “It’s the perfect time of year to show gratitude, and we want to extend our sincere thanks to these new dealers for embracing the Aliner vision. We are excited to see what the future holds as we grow and explore together.”
Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA), kicked off the annual KOA Convention on Tuesday (Nov. 19) by highlighting the positives in a year marked by slower traffic at campgrounds nationwide.
She noted that KOA’s NPS score, a data set used to measure guest satisfaction, had moved up one point in 2024 to 71. That is up from 70 in 2023 and significantly up from 53 in 2011 when the company started measuring NPS.
Total system registrations over a trailing 12-month period are still up, marking a record for the company at over 5.6 million, while year-end registration numbers are on par with last year’s record numbers.
When it comes to registration revenue, O’Rourke explained that 45% of parks were ahead in 2024, while 11% were flat and 44% were behind.
Toby O’Rourke
On the overall revenue front, O’Rourke noted the complex balance that exists between occupancy numbers and revenue.
“We can see what a unique year it has been,” she said. “Twenty-seven percent of parks are ahead of last year in terms of occupancy, 8% were flat and 65% were below in camper nights. On stage last year I talked about a goal to increase camper nights by 2%, but overall, we saw decreasing nights again this year.
“Half of our parks are above occupancy from 2019 and half of our parks are below,” O’Rourke added. “When you see these numbers, it underscores how impressive revenue growth has been. During this same cycle, we’ve increased revenue by 134%. Parks have found ways to increase their ADR despite decreasing occupancy. Ninety-two percent of campgrounds have increased their overall revenue during this pandemic cycle. The fact that KOA continues to grow despite lower occupancies speaks volumes about our value. Campers are looking for experiences and we are here to deliver.”
Of course, everyone is wondering when the decline in occupancy will reverse itself and O’Rourke said it isn’t an easy question to answer.
“We’re not alone in these occupancy declines,” she explained. “All of our peers across the industry are seeing the same levels of decreases, if not more. There are a lot of macro-level factors at play.”
O’Rourke highlighted that international travel is up 33% from where it was in 2019 with one in five people saying they plan to travel abroad in the next 12 months. Inbound international travel on the flipside has not rebounded and is still lagging behind 2019 levels.
Cruising is also up 6% over 2019 with 10 million new cruisers in the past few years and a younger demographic.
KOA’s President and CEO Toby O’Rourke gives a speech during the convention.
“I think all of these factors have had an impact, but I also think it’s a short-term headwind,” she said. “This business is going to return. We haven’t lost the camper. They’re simply taking in other forms of travel that were more heavily impacted during the pandemic.
“Cruising and international travel is expensive and that was taken in by those who could afford it, and that is a proportion of our camper base,” O’Rourke added. “But another trend that I’d like to talk about is this disparity we’re seeing in travel behavior between lower-income households and upper-income households.”
She highlighted credit card debt is at its highest level in 12 years and personal savings are dropping, with lower-income households experiencing the most pain from higher inflation.
“That impacts a significant portion of our camper base with 36% of our campers having an average annual household income of $50,000 or below,” O’Rourke noted. “Fifty-nine percent of our campers have a household income of below $75,000 and one-third of campers feel that their financial situation has worsened this year.”
All of this, she told attendees, impacts discretionary spending and how people travel.
“Families are making tough decisions about how and where to spend their money, and for many, that means looking at their travel budgets,” O’Rourke explained. “We see KOA campers opting for shorter stays, camping closer to home, looking for discounts, looking for promotions or seeking out lower-cost camping options. Half of our campers said that inflation has caused them to wait longer to book, and they’re not buying new RVs.”
She also addressed the fact that park owners are also feeling a financial pinch in their wallets.
“Your expenses are increasing, and your margins are being compressed,” O’Rourke said.
Time to Rebound
O’Rourke explained that it is time for park owners to realize that the playing field has changed and that it is no longer business as usual.
“When the playing field has changed, we need to change the game,” she noted. “We’ve been in this cycle long enough. There’s a lot of talk, we’re always looking backward, we’re always comparing. It’s time to move on, look forward and move this cycle back up and start a new business cycle, set a new baseline, and grow from there, and to do that, we need to change the game.”
O’Rourke told attendees that it isn’t just campgrounds that parks are competing against. It is every option in a particular market that people can choose to spend their time and money with.
“Camping has always been a budget-friendly alternative to travel, and we need to lean into that strength,” she explained. “We need to get existing campers to camp more. One more night, one more stay. We need to bring new campers in, and appeal to those who want to take a vacation but aren’t sure they can afford to take a cruise or go to a theme park this year.
“COVID brought so many people to camping, so they already have context and experience about being outdoors and they might be doing something else right now, but it is not hard to remind them about the fun they had and invite them back,” O’Rourke added.
Hundreds of park owners/operators are in San Antonio for this year’s convention.
What is the Game Plan?
O’Rourke said that the KOA system was going to lean into value to attract cost-conscious campers.
“We need to send a clear and authentic message that KOA is an affordable, high-quality experience that’s worth every dollar,” she noted. “Our amenities and our services need to reflect that value, build loyalty and differentiate in a crowded marketplace. When dollars are tight, campers, like all consumers, are selective in what they choose to do. They will look for brands that deliver a sense of trust, reliability and value.”
O’Rourke said the company is also going to leverage its loyalty program, KOA Rewards.
“KOA rewards offer substantial value not just in building revenue, but in securing long-term relationships,” she highlighted. “When faced with options, a loyalty program will provide competitive differentiation.”
For KOA, campers who are a part of the KOA Rewards program account for 59% of all camper nights.
O’Rourke also highlighted how parks can leverage recent travel trends to give people a reason to come to a particular park, drive more revenue through better revenue management and take advantage of the KOA marketing team, which has seen tremendous success in making sure KOA parks are ranked higher and are easier for campers to find.
Convention Highlights
Besides O’Rourke, other KOA officials including Diane Eichler, senior vice president of marketing; Andy Metroka, chief information officer; Aaron Williamson, vice president of franchise services; Kim Wootteon, vice president of commercial strategy for KOA; and Mark Lemoine, senior vice president of franchise operations; all spoke on different projects KOA is focused on to improve the system and help franchisees continue to grow.
Ryan Estis gave a keynote speech during lunch on Tuesday that focused on human-centered leadership and how park owners can pour into their staff and campers to create a better hospitality mindset and park.
Workshops were also held throughout the day on Tuesday, along with an event supporting the KOA Owners Association (KOA) in the evening.
Today (Nov. 20), KOA will be handing out its new ICON Awards, which will celebrate the parks at the very top of the system as it relates to customer service and performance. During lunch, KOA will be handing out its Presidents and Founders Awards, Rising Star Award, Park of the Year Award and Partnership Awards.
Workshops will also be held throughout the day, along with the opening of the expo this evening. The expo is expected to have more than 145 booths and will include a full camp store set up this year to help KOA train franchisees on how to better operate their stores.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Campers Inn RV is proud to announce the acquisition of Right Stop RV, a respected family dealership in Lebanon Junction, Ky., founded by Bob and Sherry Tobbe, according to a press release.
Known for their unwavering commitment to treating customers and employees with fairness and respect, Bob and Sherry built a business that thrived on trust and strong relationships. With this acquisition, Campers Inn RV not only continues its strategic growth, now operating in 18 states, but also honors and builds upon the legacy of family dealerships like Right Stop RV. Their values align seamlessly with Campers Inn’s mission to provide outstanding service and create an environment where employees and customers feel valued.
This acquisition further underscores Campers Inn RV’s dedication to becoming a truly nationwide organization while preserving the principles that have made independent dealerships so vital to the RV industry. By integrating Right Stop RV into our network, we are reaffirming our commitment to expanding thoughtfully and responsibly, with a clear focus on dealerships that embody a customer-first approach and a strong internal culture. For RV manufacturers and dealers alike, this acquisition demonstrates our readiness to partner with like-minded businesses to deliver growth, innovation, and an unmatched RV experience for customers across the nation.
“Right Stop RV has been more than a dealership – it’s been our life’s dream, our ‘farm,’ and our family.” Says Robert & Sherry Tobbe. “Selling to Jeff Hirsch and Campers Inn RV, a family-owned business with heart, feels like passing on a legacy, knowing it’s in good hands. Our journey, from campfire memories across the country to making customers part of our RV family, now closes with pride and gratitude, leaving us ready to savor our memories and step into retirement.”
Campers Inn RV recognizes the importance of preserving the legacy of family-owned dealerships within the RV industry. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to honoring the traditions and values that make these businesses so impactful in their communities. For family dealerships considering their next steps or succession planning, we welcome conversations about how Campers Inn RV can help carry forward their vision. Feel free to reach out to Jeff Hirsch at [email protected] for a confidential discussion about potential opportunities.
Headquartered in Jacksonville, Fla., Campers Inn RV was established in 1966 and has grown to become the nation’s largest family-operated dealership group with 36 locations throughout the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions. In 2010 and consecutively since 2014, Campers Inn RV has been selected as one of RVBusiness Magazine’s Top50 Dealers in North America and was named a Top 5 Blue Ribbon Award winner in 2023 marking the fifth time Campers Inn RV has earned this prestigious honor. For more information about Campers Inn RV, visit www.campersinn.com or find Campers Inn RV on Facebook
Indeed, the tributes acknowledging Liegl’s accomplishments at Forest River and his deep-felt impact on the North American RV sector have been pouring in from colleagues and competitors.
“He’s the George Washington on the Mount Rushmore of the RV industry,” said Jarrod McGhee, founder and CEO of Fun Town RV, which hasover 20 stores in Texas and five other states.
Liegl’s iconic status in the RV industry cannot be overstated. He founded Forest River in 1996, which he continued to lead even after selling the company to Berkshire Hathaway in 2005. Under his leadership, Forest River grew to be one of the largest RV manufacturers in North America, producing motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheels, toy haulers, camping trailers and destination trailers.
Headquartered in Elkhart, Ind., Forest River employs over 14,000 people in 100-plus facilities in more than a half dozen states.
“When I founded Forest River, I had a vision of a company dedicated to helping people experience the joy of the outdoors by building better recreational vehicles and assuring that every family that desires quality recreation would find a product that serves their needs, interests, budget and lifestyle,” Liegl stated in a 2016 letter to employees for the company’s 20th Anniversary.
Born April 30, 1944, in Petoskey, Mich., Liegl is survived by his wife Sharon, daughter Lisa L. Rees – who is the co-founder and general manager of East to West RV, a division of Forest River – son-in-law Logan Rees, grandchildren Adrienne (6) and Ryan (3) and brother-in-law Gary Chamberlin.
Liegl, who earned an undergraduate degree in 1968 from Northern Michigan University in Marquette, Mich., and an MBA in 1971 from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich., was also active in a number of philanthropic and civic-minded efforts, including the Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center near downtown Elkhart.
Flanked by two past RVDA Chairmen of the Board, Jeff Hirsch of Campers Inn (left) and Mike Pearo of Hilltop Camper & RV, Forest River’s Pete Liegl (center) received the association’s Titan Award at the RVBusiness RV Power Breakfast in 2021.
Awards & Accolades
In 2022, Liegl received the Distinguished Service Award from the RV IndustryAssociation – RVIA’s highest honor – which is presented to an individual within the RV industry who has set himself or herself apart by outstanding service.
Craig Kirby
RVIA President Craig Kirby said the association was “deeply saddened” to learn of Liegl’s passing.
“Pete was an industry titan in every sense of the word, and for nearly three decades, he’s built Forest River into one of the world’s most well-known, respected, and successful RV manufacturers,” Kirby said. “His entrepreneurial leadership and innovative ideas were major drivers of the RV industry’s growth, and his vision for Forest River helped introduce RV travel and camping to millions of families and outdoor enthusiasts.
“Pete was a steadfast advocate for our association and always generously encouraged many talented people within Forest River to be active on the Association’s Board and on many committees,” Kirby continued. “Pete was also a generous benefactor and patron for many deserving causes nationally as well as in the greater Elkhart area. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his loving family, as well as to everyone at Forest River. He will be deeply missed, but his impact and legacy of leadership both professionally and personally will forever endure.”
Phil Ingrassia
In 2021, Liegl received the Titan Award from the national RV Dealers Association – RVDA’s highest honor – at the RVBusiness Power Breakfast in Elkhart, Ind., for his “pioneering efforts to make RV travel a preferred leisure activity for millions of Americans.”
“Pete Liegl’s innovative product ideas and business savvy had a major impact on the RV industry’s growth this century,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “He helped make the dream of RV travel attainable for people from all walks of life.”
Liegl was elected to the RV/MH Hall of Fame in 2009. His Hall of Fame plaque reads:
“Pete is a long-time industry executive and promoter having developed several companies. Starting in 1996, he built his current company through development and acquisition into the nation’s largest manufacturer of towable RVs and Elkhart County’s largest employer, providing jobs for over 6,500 workers. He has, for many years, been an imaginative entrepreneur and active cheerleader for the RV industry. He is most publicly recognized for building his company into the industry’s largest privately owned manufacturer and selling it to Warren Buffett, bringing the prestige of Berkshire Hathaway into the RV industry.”
Friends & Colleagues
THOR Industries President Bob Martin at the 2024 Elkhart RV Open House. (RVBusiness file photo)
In a sterling example of how things often go within the North American RV industry, THOR Industries Inc. President & CEO Bob Martin first met Pete Liegl back in the day when Liegl was at Cobra Van America and Martin was in his earliest days at Coachmen Industries Inc. before the two evolved into friends and generally amicable competitors.
While their companies eventually represented the top two OEM’s in terms of volume, in fact, Martin said he and Liegl generally worked well together on some vital projects including the timing of the Elkhart RV Open House and some philanthropic initiatives.
Liegl, for instance, joined Martin in shoring up financial support for a new football field at Elkhart High School as well as an Elkhart Health & Aquatics Center that has contributed to the vitality of Elkhart’s downtown. Both, in turn, have played key roles in supporting a joint foundation that provides financial assistance to employees and others faced with major problems like house fires, family crises and medical setbacks.
“Yes,” Martin told RVB, “I think I met Pete back in 1993 in my first week on the job at Coachmen and just had interactions with him throughout my entire career, and I’ve always admired him and held him in the highest regard. And he had always been just a great person to me and a great competitor. We would have our differences at times, but more often than not, we found our way to see eye to eye most of the time.
“Pete was a fierce competitor,” added Martin, who, as well as Liegl, was inducted into the RV/MH Hall of Fame. “He has always run just a great company. And I mean that — the fact that he built up Forest River from the ashes of Cobra and ultimately (in 2005) sold it to Berkshire and did very well for himself. And he just had such a loyal following. He had people that had worked for him for many, many years, and they were dedicated to Pete and very loyal.
“And for us, as competitors we’d still find ways to do the right things in business,” he said, pointing out that September’s industry-wide Open House (Forest River still calls it the “Expo”) was indeed originally Liegl’s idea coming out of the Recession. “And if there were issues, we’d sit down and we’d talk through them and we’d find solutions. Bottom line, there was a side of Pete that I saw that was just a softer side and very generous.”
Pete Liegl was on hand to support Don Gunden at his RV/MH Hall of Fame induction in 2023. (RVBusiness file photo)
What Don Gunden, a Forest River veteran who served as general manager of the company’s Rockwood, Flagstaff and Palomino lines for years before his February retirement, will remember most about Pete is that “he afforded all of us opportunities we probably would never have gotten any place else. He was a damn good leader and he’s going to be sorely missed and people don’t know how much yet.”
What made him a good leader?
“He was a good leader because, A, he had good ideas. And B, if he disagreed with you or you disagreed with him, he always heard you out and you always heard him out. And whoever had the better idea won.”
Long story short, again, said Gunden, Liegl will be earnestly missed. “Yes, you know, Pete really had a big heart. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for you if you needed it. Bottom line, we lost a boss, but we also lost a friend.”
This “Self Made Man” statue was a gift from Liegl that McGhee has proudly on display in his lobby.
Calling him “a dear friend, a visionary leader, and a mentor to so many” including himself,Fun Town RV‘s McGhee,said Liegl was “more than just a pioneer in our industry; he was our North Star, guiding the RV world with wisdom, determination and a sense of purpose that set the standard for decades.”
McGhee credited Liegl’s “unwavering faith” and “invaluable advice” were instrumental in the dealership’s success. “His support was not just professional but deeply personal – a testament to the kind of man he was,” he said.
“Pete was not only an incredible businessman but also a person who deeply cared for the people and companies he worked with,” McGhee continued. “True to his brilliance, he placed the right leaders in the right roles to ensure Forest River will continue to grow and thrive, a legacy that speaks to his forward-thinking vision.”
McGhee said his relationship with the “Big Dog” – his nickname for Liegl – grew into a solid friendship.
“Pete took to (McGhee’s son) Chandler when he was real young and we started to come up to Open House and me and Chandler would stay at the house with him and Sharon,” McGhee said. “We got pretty close to him over the years. Poor Sharon had to go out to dinner with me and Pete all the time and listen to us talk forever and ever. I felt so bad for her over the years.”
Jason Lippert
Jason Lippert, president and CEOofLippert Components Inc., Elkhart, Ind., said he’s learned a lot from Liegl, especially how he always seemed to have a different angle when approaching a challenge.
“And I learned a lot just by listening to the questions that he’d ask; that was a big thing for me,” Lippert said. “And he really taught me how a business can be run efficiently. I don’t know of a business that ran more efficiently than his. I watched a lot of the things he did and a lot of ways he ran his business, and tried to mimic as much as we could.”
He also noted that Liegl had a lot of “Pete-isms.”
“His best one that he used with me a lot is, ‘Pigs get fat and hogs get slaughtered.’ He used that all the time. It was always a warning: You can make a reasonable profit, but just don’t go over the edge,” Lippert chuckled.
When asked to put into perspective his impact on the North American RV industry, Lippert said Liegl’s “aggressive” stance on price is responsible for tens of thousands of units each year.
“He created a lot of product that customers wanted and got aggressive on price often to make sure that anything that they tried in the market sold,” Lippert explained. “They just drove a lot of sales because of his aggressiveness. And, I don’t know, we might be sitting on a 250,000-unit market right now versus 350 because of how aggressive he was. Whether it was innovation, whether it was new product, whether it was affordability – he hit it from all angles.”
Jeff Hirsch
Jeff Hirsch of Campers Inn RV, the Jacksonville, Fla.-based dealer group with 37 locations across the U.S., said Liegl was a “positive disruptor who challenged the industry on many fronts” and a “risk-taker” for, among other things, founding Forest River with not much more than a “very clear vision for what he wanted for the company” which was to be both “value-oriented and innovative.”
“Obviously, that took a lot of guts to go ahead and go after it,” Hirsch told RVBusiness, adding that some of his most cherished moments with Liegl are when the two of them would meet for personal, meaningful conversations.
“We talked about life in general, and how he reflected on his life and his vision for Forest River going forward,” Hirsch said. “One of the things he said that he wanted to accomplish was that he wanted to see Forest River be more focused on quality, continue to be innovative in floorplans, to be more focused on the customer, and to make sure that the customer truly had a good experience. And he started to shape his company with a commitment to parts, warranty and service – and he did that.”
Hirsch also singled out Liegl’s “passion” for Forest River.
“I don’t think that anybody in the industry today that works for Forest River, I should say, had the love that he had for his company, even after he sold it to Warren Buffett,” he said. “He wanted to make sure that his legacy was defined by his accomplishments with Forest River – and I think he achieved that because the Forest River that we know today is different than the one we knew yesterday. I think that’s one of his greatest accomplishments: transitioning the company to be more focused on the end-user, our customer.”
Michael Happe
Calling him a “visionary leader and innovator whose contributions profoundly shaped our industry,” Winnebago Industries President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Happe said he and the rest of the company were “saddened to hear of the passing of Liegl.
“His passion and larger-than-life presence will be greatly missed. Pete’s determination throughout his career inspired countless individuals and left an indelible mark on everyone who had the opportunity to work with or compete against him,” Happe said. “On behalf of Winnebago Industries, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his loving wife, daughter and son-in-law, grandchildren, and all those who cherished him. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Forest River team during this difficult time.
“Pete’s legacy will continue to remind us all of the transformative power of bold leadership and dedication to making the outdoors a place for fun and connection,” he added.
Ron Hoover
“I text-visited with Lisa (Liegl’s daughter Lisa Rees) this morning and I just told her that her dad was my favorite human being on the planet,” said Rockport, Texas-based dealer Ron Hoover, CEO of Ron Hoover RV& Marine Centers with 18 locations throughout the Lone Star State. “I just loved talking to him – an unbelievable person, just brilliant.”
Hoover, who worked with Liegl for a bunch of years as a key Forest River dealer, considered him “an icon in our industry that nobody will ever replace.”
“Yeah, you know a lot of people were afraid of Pete, but Pete and I had a great relationship,” said Hoover. “Every time I went to Elkhart, I’d go visit with him and we’d just talk for hours. And he was a visionary. He was always thinking about down the road and planning for the future. That’s what we’d talk about, not what was going on today; but what was going to happen in three or four years from now. He’d listen and ask good questions, and I’m going to miss him.”
Jeff Rodino
On behalf of Patrick Industries, President Jeff Rodino expressed his company’s condolences.
“We are mourning the loss of Pete Liegl, a visionary leader who profoundly shaped the RV industry in ways that will resonate for generations. We are deeply grateful for everything he has done to pave the way for our success and inspire countless others to make their mark. Mr. Liegl’s influence will remain a cornerstone of our industry and community, today and forever,” Rodino said.
Forest River, Inc. Mourns the Passing of Founder Pete Liegl, Celebrating His Visionary Leadership and Philanthropy
ELKHART, Ind. – It is with deep sadness that Forest River, Inc. announces the passing of its founder, Peter J. Liegl. Pete not only was a visionary leader who transformed the RV industry, but one of Indiana’s proudest citizens and most generous philanthropists. He is survived by his wife Sharon, daughter Lisa L. Rees, son-in-law Logan Rees, and grandchildren Adrienne (6) and Ryan (3) and brother-in-law Gary Chamberlin.
Pete is best known as the founder of Forest River, Inc., and the man who in 2005 sold Forest River to famed investor Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. But his legendary role in building the RV industry into a multibillion-dollar enterprise began from humble beginnings. Sales and management positions brought him valuable experience in production, operations, and customer service. He worked his way to the role of president at Midas Motorhomes and then on to Shasta, a Coachmen-owned company, before deciding to venture out on his own when he co-founded Cobra Industries. Cobra Industries went public and Pete was “fired.” This led him to build his first RV by hand in a barn. Driven to succeed, Liegl brought his first units to Louisville and sold them outside under a lamp post – which was the beginning of “Where the forest meets the river.”
In 1996, Liegl established Forest River, Inc. in Elkhart, Indiana, with the vision of bringing the power of nature to as many Americans as possible. His goal was to create a company that could meet a wide range of consumer needs, and he did just that. Forest River grew rapidly under his leadership, expanding its product range to include not only RVs but also buses, cargo trailers, and marine products. He believed in providing the best product at the best price. His strategic acquisitions and commitment to innovation helped Forest River to become one of the largest RV manufacturers in North America.
His management philosophy emphasized empowering employees, fostering a culture of accountability, and always focusing on the needs of the consumer. “We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” he said recently. “But we’re very serious about what we do.”
Pete Liegl
In 2024, despite announcing a succession plan for the company, Pete Liegl remained at the helm of what he called “the quiet company,” working every day – including Saturdays and Sundays – while presiding over a slate of internal innovations and investments that will provide the foundation for growth and excellence for years to come.
Pete, to anyone that knew him for more than a minute, found meaning and inspiration from his namesake, the Apostle Peter. Peter’s story inspired transformation, and Pete’s journey inspired many, while highlighting themes of redemption, leadership, and unwavering commitment to one’s beliefs.
Pete was very proud of his roots in Elkhart, and privately made generous philanthropic contributions, supporting causes in education, healthcare, conservation and local communities. In the end, it is his determined strength of character, booming laugh and a twinkle in the eye that will leave a lasting impact on those who knew him best.
About Forest River, Inc.
Founded in 1996 by Pete Liegl, Forest River, Inc. has evolved into North America’s largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles, cargo trailers, pontoon boats, and commercial vehicles including buses, vans, and trucks. Its portfolio includes market share leaders in every category, and it is the country’s leading manufacturer of buses and vans for both the private and public sectors. Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Forest River employs 14,000+ employees in 100+ facilities in more than a half dozen states. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, Forest River is proud to be a Berkshire Hathaway company.
REDMOND, Ore. – Expion360 Inc. (Nasdaq: XPON), an industry leader in lithium-ion battery power storage solutions, announced significant growth within its OEM and distribution network. In addition to strengthening the company’s relationships with existing OEM partners, Expion360 has recently added several new OEMs and one new distributor, following its attendance at the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House in September and resulting from its ongoing sales efforts to expand the company’s customer base across the United States.
The Elkhart event showcased Expion360’s batteries installed in demonstration vehicles, highlighting their performance and versatility, according to a release, which resonated strongly with attendees. This momentum, combined with the company’s strategic outreach efforts nationwide, has significantly bolstered its footprint in the RV markets, the release continued.
In addition to the three recently announced new OEM customers, Scout Campers, Alaskan Campers, LLC d/b/a Alaskan Campers, and K-Z Recreational Vehicles, Expion360 has secured several new OEM customers and one new distributor.
“We expect these new relationships to generate incremental revenue of approximately $5.0 million for fiscal year 2025,” the release stated. “These efforts underscore our commitment to expanding our reach and delivering quality power solutions across a wider range of industries and sales channels. The anticipated revenue growth is expected to increase gross profits by an estimated $1.4 million for fiscal year 2025. In addition, we expect to finish fiscal year 2024 on a strong note, following increased sales during the fourth quarter of 2024 as a result of these new relationships.”
“We are very pleased to see such strong momentum with our new customers who have expressed interest across our product line, including our next generation GC2, Group 27, and new Edge batteries,” said Brian Schaffner, chief executive officer of Expion360. “These new relationships expand our customer base as our recently introduced batteries and enhanced features continue to gain traction in the marketplace. We believe this growth is a testament to the quality of our products and features and the trust our customers place in us. We look forward to supporting these new relationships and continuing to advance our shared vision of advanced, reliable power solutions, while seeking to drive meaningful incremental revenue for our business.
“These new customers reflect our dedication to advancing energy solutions and meeting the increasing demand for high-quality lithium battery technology. This expanded OEM network strengthens our presence in the recreational vehicle (RV), off-grid, and surveillance industries, showcasing our versatility in providing reliable energy solutions tailored to diverse applications. Through the addition of a new distributor, we are aiming to broaden access to our dependable and innovative power solutions. With these developments, we believe we are well-positioned to further enhance our market presence and continue delivering advanced energy solutions that meet the unique needs of customers,” Schaffner concluded.
About Expion360
Expion360 is an industry leader in premium lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries and accessories for recreational vehicles and marine applications, with residential and industrial applications under development. On December 19, 2023, the Company announced its entrance into the home energy storage market with the introduction of two premium LiFePO4 battery storage systems that enable residential and small business customers to create their own stable micro-energy grid and lessen the impact of increasing power fluctuations and outages.
The company’s lithium-ion batteries feature half the weight of standard lead-acid batteries while delivering three times the power and ten times the number of charging cycles. Expion360 batteries also feature better construction and reliability compared to other lithium-ion batteries on the market due to their superior design and quality materials. Specially reinforced, fiberglass-infused, premium ABS and solid mechanical connections help provide top performance and safety. With Expion360 batteries, adventurers can enjoy the most beautiful and remote places on Earth even longer.
The company is headquartered in Redmond, Oregon. Expion360 lithium-ion batteries are available today through more than 300 dealers, wholesalers, private-label customers, and OEMs across the country.
SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – KZ Recreational Vehicles, a community-minded organization, announced its recent donation to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Goshen, Ind. The contribution was made possible through the sale of custom “Support Our Veterans” T-shirts, a fundraiser designed to honor and support our nation’s veterans, according to a release.
Proceeds from the T-shirt sales were donated to the DAV organization in Goshen as a way for KZ Recreational Vehicles to show its gratitude and commitment to veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. The initiative also reflects KZ’s ongoing dedication to giving back to the community and supporting causes that make a positive impact.
Ryan Juday
“We wanted to find a meaningful way to give back to veterans in our community,” said Ryan Juday, president of KZ RV. “Through this fundraiser, we were able to engage our employees, raise awareness, and ultimately provide some financial support to the Disabled American Veterans, an organization that does so much for those who have served.”
Disabled American Veterans is a nonprofit organization that provides vital support to disabled veterans, including access to essential services, benefits assistance, and community engagement opportunities. KZ’s donation aims to assist DAV in its mission and ensure that veterans in the Goshen, Indiana area receive the recognition and support they deserve.
KZ is grateful to everyone who participated in this fundraiser and looks forward to continuing its efforts to support local heroes in the future.
For more information about KZ Recreational Vehicles and its award-winning product lines, visit www.kz-rv.com.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) will host a webinar on Wednesday, November 20, at 11:00 a.m. ET on new economic data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). This briefing will cover essential economic trends, regional impacts, and the sector’s resilience and growth despite economic challenges. With the outdoor economy contributing significantly to the national and local economies, the data underscores the need for continued federal investment in outdoor infrastructure and policies that support recreation access for all Americans. Speakers will include ORR members, policymakers, and BEA economists.
Of Note: ORR and its members will also discuss the continued push for the U.S. Senate to pass the bipartisan EXPLORE Act before the end of the year. It was passed by unanimous consent in the House of Representatives in April 2024.
Editors: This event is a unique opportunity to gain insights into the economic strength of the outdoor recreation industry. The new data release will provide the latest on the industry’s impact, underscoring its importance to diverse communities across the U.S.
Members of the media can register for the November 20th webinar here and directly after, attend a media only Q/A with BEA staff and ORR members by dialing 303-416-5839 (no pin).
Who: Industry experts from the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable and representatives from the Bureau of Economic Analysis will participate in a discussion panel.
Amy Allison, Director, North Carolina Outdoor Economy Office
Connor Franks, Economist, BEA
Glenn Hughes, President, American Sportfishing Association
Jason Rano, VP of Government Affairs, RV Industry Association
Scott Schloegel, SVP, Motorcycle Industry Council
Stanislaw Rzeznik, Economist, BEA
When: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, at 11:00 AM Eastern/9:00 AM Mountain
Where: Register for the Zoomhere for the 11:00 AM Eastern webinar and then directly after for a media only Q/A on line 303-416-5839 at approximately 12:00 PM Eastern.
NAPPANEE, Ind. and STATESVILLE, N.C. – LEGACY MOTOR CLUB today announced that Newmar Corporation, a premium manufacturer of luxury recreational vehicles and fully-owned subsidiary of Winnebago industries (NYSE: WGO) has been named the official luxury motor coach provider of the CLUB in a new one-year partnership.
For more than 50 years, Newmar has manufactured recreational vehicles that are the pinnacle of luxury, comfort, performance and design, giving their customers an unrivaled luxury outdoor experience. Now, LEGACY M.C. teammates and guests will have access to an elevated race-day experience with a new, custom-built King Aire coach designed specifically for the hospitality and corporate needs of the team. This 45-foot RV will feature a full custom graphics package in the CLUB’s black, gold, and white color pallet and will travel to 20-plus events in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series, providing a space for entertainment and trackside hosting.
“Like LEGACY M.C., Newmar has a rich tradition of performance and a deep commitment to excellence,” said Newmar President Casey Tubman. “We are thrilled to partner with the team, building on our shared values while celebrating the past and future legacies of our companies. We cannot thank Cal, Jimmie and team enough for the warm welcome into the LEGACY family and look forward to an amazing 2025.”
The new Newmar coach will provide LEGACY M.C. with a guest experience solution that will set it apart from typical at-race entertainment of the past. Designed to fit LEGACY M.C.’s specifications and need to double as an entertainment space and office meeting area, Newmar once again proves itself to be the most customizable production coach on the market today, able to take on any challenge to create the ultimate home away from home.
“Having been involved in motorsport for close to 50 years I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to work within the Formula One, IndyCar, off-road, sports car, and NASCAR spaces,” said Cal Wells III, chief executive officer of LEGACY M.C. “In each discipline our operations were critically affected by having a connected space that provides a quality environment for everything from engineering processes to hospitality. LEGACY M.C.’s new partnership with Newmar will provide an extraordinary platform to conduct all aspects of our motorsports business. We are so excited to have them aboard.”
Additionally, LEGACY M.C. will utilize this fully customized corporate coach for its at-track engineering meeting place and commercial operations activities and meetings, allowing the CLUB members to stay connected to the core product both on and off the track.
“Our team takes great pride in every build, from our superior quality to the wood craftsmanship we are known for,” said Tubman. “We know what it takes to deliver a luxurious home away from home and are eager to bring that experience to the track this season.”
LEGACY M.C. team will take ownership of their 45-foot 2025 Newmar King Aire in early February, and it will debut for partners and guests of the CLUB at the 2025 DAYTONA 500.
Winnebago Industries, Inc. is a leading North American manufacturer of outdoor lifestyle products under the Winnebago, Grand Design, Chris-Craft, Newmar and Barletta brands, which are used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company builds high-quality motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth-wheel products, outboard and sterndrive powerboats, pontoons, and commercial community outreach vehicles. Committed to advancing sustainable innovation and leveraging vertical integration in key component areas, Winnebago Industries has multiple facilities in Iowa, Indiana, Minnesota, and Florida. The Company’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and traded under the symbol WGO. For access to Winnebago Industries’ investor relations materials visit www.winnebagoind.com/investors.
LEGACY MOTOR CLUB is a professional auto racing club owned by businessman and entrepreneur Maurice “Maury” J. Gallagher and seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. The CLUB competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series fielding the No. 42 Toyota Camry XSE of John Hunter Nemechek, the No. 43 Toyota Camry XSE of Erik Jones, and the No. 84 limited schedule entry for Johnson. LEGACY M.C. also competes in the Extreme E Series. Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty “The King” serves as CLUB Ambassador. With a unique title signifying a nod to car clubs of past eras, LEGACY M.C. is an inclusive club for all motorsport enthusiasts to celebrate the past and future legacies of its members, while competing for wins and championships at NASCAR’s elite level. To keep up-to-date with the latest news, information and exclusive content, follow LEGACY MOTOR CLUB on Facebook, X, Instagram and at www.LEGACYMOTORCLUB.com.
Jeff Sims, right, was a familiar face in Washington D.C. as an advocate for the campground industry.
OHI announces the retirement of Jeff Sims, its revered Director of State Relations and Program Advocacy, who will officially retire in mid-January 2025. With a career spanning over five decades, Sims has left an indelible mark on the Outdoor Hospitality Industry, tirelessly advocating for policies that support RV parks and campgrounds nationwide.
Jeff Sims is a household name in the industry, having dedicated his life to advancing and advocating for outdoor hospitality. His journey began in his youth watching on when his father Dean cofounded the Missouri Campground Owners Association, and later his co-ownership and operation of Compton Ridge Campgrounds, Lodge & Convention Center in Branson, Missouri, from 1967 to 2007. His leadership extended to a national level, serving as chairman of the National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds (ARVC) from 1997 to 1999 and later on the ARVC Foundation board.
Since stepping into his role as Director of State Relations and Program Advocacy in January 2011, Sims has consistently championed issues critical to the industry. His efforts include the careful review of thousands of legislative bills annually, bolstering OHI’s voice in Washington, D.C., and fostering strong relationships with policymakers. Sims played a pivotal role in the annual Advocacy Day, helping transform it from a single-day event to a robust, week-long series of meetings on Capitol Hill. His tireless and, often thankless, work has helped shape policies that affect the livelihoods of outdoor hospitality businesses across the U.S for decades, with an influence that will last even longer.
Jeff Sims, left.
“As advocates for the entire Outdoor Hospitality Industry, staying abreast of policy and legal changes at all levels is integral to OHI’s mission of propelling the industry forward,” says Sims. “It’s been a privilege to work alongside dedicated professionals and contribute to an industry I care about deeply.”
In recognition of his legacy, OHI is proud to announce the creation of the Jeff Sims Advocacy in Action Award, which will be awarded annually at OHI’s annual Outdoor Hospitality Conference and Expo (OHCE) starting next year. The award will honor an industry member who demonstrates the same dedication and commitment to advocacy that Jeff has exemplified throughout his career.
“Jeff’s impact on the Outdoor Hospitality Industry is beyond measure. He’s not only been a pillar of knowledge and integrity but also a friend and mentor to so many of us.” says Paul Bambei, President and CEO of OHI. “Jeff’s dedication runs deep. His work, his wisdom, and his passion have left an indelible mark on our industry and on all who’ve had the privilege to know him. We’re grateful for every moment he’s given, and while we’ll miss him greatly, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind.”
To ensure a smooth transition, Sims has handpicked his successor, Julia Canady King, who joined OHI as Government Affairs Manager this week. King brings with her extensive knowledge of federal and state relations from her tenure as the Federal Affairs Coordinator for the Florida Governor’s Office. With a passion for camping and a commitment to advocacy, King will continue Sims’ legacy of advancing OHI’s legislative agenda. She will work closely with Sims in the coming months to carry forward the high standards he has set for this role.
Jeff is supported by his loving wife, Susie, and family, as he enters this new chapter of life. His unwavering dedication and strategic insight for those in the Outdoor Hospitality Industry leave an unmatched legacy that will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
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