Those who monitor LinkedIn may have noticed the recent milestone reached by Lippert Components Inc. (LCI) Senior Vice President of Operations and Customer Support Services Marc Grimes: His 25^th anniversary with the Elkhart, Ind.-based component supplier and as an executive within the RV industry.

Curious about his perspective, RVBusiness spoke with Grimes, who was a leadership trainee in January of 2000 when he first joined Lippert, now a 70-year-old, publicly held, 13,000-employee firm with more than 100 locations in the U.S. and overseas in the RV, marine and other markets.

In his current position, Grimes oversees some manufacturing locations around the country, works with LCI’s dealer relations, OEM support, pricing, product development  and “a little bit of everything.”

And that, from all indications, will remain the status quo for the foreseeable future for Grimes, a father of four who works at the company’s Elkhart headquarters and lives in nearby Nappanee with his family including spouse and fellow Lippert team member Michilah Grimes,

It’s worth noting that Michilah, who’s been with LCI herself for nearly 10 years and currently serves as LCI’s social impact strategist and corporate partnerships, is well known to a lot of industry people because of the central role she’s played in hosting LCI’s numerous charitable events including the annual Boys & Girls Club auction.

Suffice to say that Marc Grimes has seen a lot of changes over the years at Lippert – far more than he was able to summarize in a quick telephone interview.

“Wow. I mean, obviously one of the key takeaways over the years is the fact that we have built relationships with a lot of our manufacturing partners,” Grimes responded. “We’ve cultivated a variety of different product lines. And as we’ve developed those relationships and grown the product lines, it’s just exponentially expanded our influence on the community and just everything that we do.

“It’s been an amazing ride,” he added. “There are always going to be challenges, but there are also incredible opportunities and the people that I’ve met, and the partnerships I’ve formed have been invaluable. I genuinely believe that the strength of our team is rooted in these connections, and it’s rewarding to see how our collective efforts have not only strengthened our company but also enhanced our community.”

That’s saying something after 25 years, isn’t it? “I think so,” Grimes confided. “I’ve raised a family here, and built a career I am proud of, have a wonderful wife, and we’re heavily involved in our communities, the schools and the nonprofits.”

And one of his chief takeaways at this point regarding LCI as a company looking down the road is to continue his long-term working relationship with LCI President & CEO Jason Lippert. “Yes,” noted Grimes, “he’s one of the reasons that I stay at Lippert and why I’ve stayed there as long as I have. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in guiding the company through various challenges. Working alongside him has not only shaped my career, but has reinforced my commitment to the company’s mission.”

“Yes,” Grimes continued, “I think that’s one thing about the RV industry is that it’s a family and that’s one of the things that makes it great. I’ve learned so much from my experiences and from the people around me. It’s not just achieving milestones; it’s about the journey and relationships that have been built along the way. I love seeing the success that everyone’s had and want to do everything I can to support it in the future. And that’s what gets me up every day.”

That’s even more the case in a charitable-minded company like LCI, maintained Grimes. “Business as a force for good is one of the things that, really, over the last decade we’ve tried to perpetuate in the industry — just what can we do to make our communities, our people and our relationships better. And it just travels down the line, people pay it forward. So that’s the exciting part.”

As for his 25^th anniversary, Grimes said he’s been gratified by the response of his fellow workers. “After they posted something on LinkedIn, I was overwhelmed by the number of thank-you messages from team members, both current and former. It meant a lot to me, the relationships that I’ve built, that people I haven’t talked to in 10, 15 years reached out and said thank you for being a part of my journey at Lippert.”

The post Marc Grimes Reflects on 25 Years at Lippert Components first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

In this episode of RVBusiness Capitol Talk, Toby O’Rourke, president of the Kampgrounds of America (KOA), tells Rick Kessler of RVBusiness and Ben Quiggle of Woodall’s Campground Magazine that 2025 should be another good year for her company and the campground industry in general.

The RVBusiness Capitol Talk video series is sponsored by Airxcel Inc.

The post Capitol Talk: KOA’s Toby O’Rourke Sees Good Year Ahead first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

BEIJING — China countered President Donald Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on Chinese products with tariffs on select U.S. imports Tuesday, as well as announcing an antitrust investigation into Google and other trade measures, according to an Associated Press report.

U.S. tariffs on products from Canada and Mexico were also set to go into effect Tuesday before Trump agreed to a 30-day pause as the two countries acted to appease his concerns about border security and drug trafficking. Trump planned to talk with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the next few days.

The Chinese response was “measured,” said John Gong, a professor at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing. “I don’t think they want the trade war escalating,” he said. “And they see this example from Canada and Mexico and probably they are hoping for the same thing.”

This isn’t the first round of tit-for-tat actions between the two countries. China and the U.S. had engaged in a trade war in 2018 when Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods and China responded in kind.

This time, analysts said, China is much better prepared to counter, with the government announcing a slew of measures that cut across different sectors of the economy, from energy to individual U.S. companies.

Click here to read the full Associated Press report.

The post China Retaliates; Canada, Mexico Tariffs on 30-Day Delay first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Members of the RV industry relaxed a little Monday afternoon as President Trump announced a 30-day pause in levying 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and 10% on oil, natural gas and electricity from Canada.

All of this came after a phone call between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that tackled immigration and fentanyl smuggling concerns Trump had hoped to settle.

In a post on social media site X, Trudeau said, “Canada is implementing our $1.3 billion border plan — reinforcing the border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl… we will list cartels as terrorists, ensure 24/7 eyes on the border, launch a Canada- U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering. I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl and we will be backing it with $200 million.”

In response, Trump amended Saturday’s executive order to state tariffs would not take effect until March 4 and that the situation would continue to be assessed in the meantime.

“As president, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that,” Trump said on Truth Social. “I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final economic deal with Canada can be structured.”

Those in the RV industry who were contacted were somewhat relieved, but with so much uncertainty still in the air, they also were cautious about believing everything was solved.

“I know it could hurt the RV business if it goes on too long,” said Bob Brammer of Stromberg Carlson. “On the other hand the package that was passed and hopefully will stay intact will definitely benefit myself and the dealers and distributors who handle our accessories like they do – anybody else that goes through two step distribution. It would help us compete against e-commerce. That’s really my focus. They don’t pay tariffs and we do pay tariffs. That’s just not right.”

Brammer said both countries are proud of their cultures, and rightfully so, but there likely will be anxiety until the situation gets resolved.

Eleanore Hamm, president of the RV Dealers Association of Canada, said the organization will keep its members informed as well as it can to the evolving situation.

But she said she is much more upbeat than she was Saturday.

“It is excellent news because obviously the economic impact on both sides of the border by the tariff would be devastating. So, we really pleased that the conversation has continued at the political level,” she said. “And hopefully in the long run, we can avoid the tariffs altogether.”

Hamm said RVDA of Canada will hold a webinar Thursday for its members to keep them in the loop as to what the association is working on. Those interested in viewing the webinar can click here. (Scroll to the bottom for more information.)

She said advocacy is taking place in Ottawa to ensure Parliament is aware of the economic impact of outdoor recreation and the impacts a 25% tariff would have on dealers who are reliant upon U.S.-made RVs coming into the country.

“We don’t have the manufacturing capability in Canada to supply the product,” Hamm said, while acknowledging Canada’s Class B manufacturers. “So it’s not like there’s an alternative.”

Phil Ingrassia, president of the U.S. RVDA also pointed to the fluidity of the situation while acknowledging that Monday’s actions seem to be a step in the right direction.

“There’s a a lot of unknowns at this point, but it gives it gives it a little bit more time to negotiate before any tariff would go into place,” he said. “They could potentially obviously impact dealers pricing situations if prices go up on imported components and materials that manufacturers need. Some of van campers from the Canadian manufacturers would likely be impacted. We’re monitoring the situation and I certainly want to work with our industry partners at RVIA and RVDA of Canada to provide the best information we can to the dealers.”

Shane Devenish, president of the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association, said the CRVA “highly welcomes” the announcement yesterday that the Canadian and U.S. governments have agreed to postpone the implementation of tariffs for 30 days following productive discussions between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Donald Trump.

“The CRVA would like to express its appreciation to both administrations for the decision to engage in meaningful dialogue that works towards a resolution that avoids any unnecessary economic disruption,” Devenish said in a statement issued this morning (Feb. 4). “We strongly support these continued discussions to ensure that fair trade policies can remain in place to benefit businesses and consumers on both sides of the border.”

The RV Industry in Canada and the United States has “thrived under decades of mutually beneficial free trade policies,” Devenish continued. “The North American RV industry’s ability to provide our families with outdoor enjoyment is critically dependent on fair and stable trade policies to maintain production, sales, and investment.”

Trade barriers, if implemented, would significantly impact consumers, limit product availability, and reduce industry competitiveness, he added.

“We are optimistic that governments will use this extension period productively to explore equitable solutions that address the concerns of the US and Canada, which do not place undue burden and stress on our businesses and consumers,” Devenish said. “The CRVA remains committed to working with our industry partners, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure that the interests of RV manufacturers, dealers, and owners are represented in any future trade negotiations.”

At Go Power!, a division of Dometic, plans are being made in advance just in case a settlement isn’t forthcoming.

“We were actively preparing our U.S. inventory levels prior to these announcements and are in a good position right now,” said Mark Spilsbury, RV Division manager, Go Power! “While the talks of tariffs and updates to trade policies are ongoing, we are actively evaluating our supply chain and the impacts on our business. Our priority is, and has always been, to ensure that our customer’s experience is top-tier, and this is no exception.”

RVDA of Canada, CRVA to Host Webinar

Join the RVDA of Canada and the CRVA for an important webinar on the upcoming U.S.-Canada tariffs and their impact on the RV industry. With the U.S. set to impose a 25% surtax on Canadian imports and Canada responding with similar measures – all of which has been placed on a 30-day delay – these changes could significantly affect businesses across the sector.

The webinar is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. PT, Thursday, Feb. 6. Presenters include Hamm, Devenish and Charles Bernard, a lead economist for Impact Pubic Affairs.

Key Topics

• Breakdown of the new tariffs effective February 4, 2025
• Products impacted, including RV appliances and components
• Canada’s response and potential future tariff expansions
• Business implications
• Advocacy efforts and steps RVDA of Canada is taking on your behalf

For any questions, email [email protected].

The post RV Industry Takes a Breath, But Tariffs Threat Still Looms first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is the latest list of RV and RV-related 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.

Winnebago Towable is recalling 144 2025 Winnebago Minnie travel trailers. The cooktop flame may invert when the stove and furnace are operated at the same time. Dealers will install a panel to separate the furnace and cooktop, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 23. Owners may contact Winnebago customer service at 1-574-825-5280 Ext. 5220. Winnebago’s number for this recall is CAM0000041.

Forest River Inc. is recalling 144 2025 Coachmen Catalina travel trailers. The Federal Placard label lists an incorrect vehicle dry weight. Dealers will replace the label, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 5. Owners may contact Forest River customer service at 1-574-825-4995. Forest River’s number for this recall is 203-1889.

The post NHTSA Releases its Most Recent Installment of RV Recalls first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

From Airxcel: Discover why partnering with Airxcel means choosing better brands and creating better experiences. In this video, we delve into Airxcel’s rich history of excellence and innovation. Explore our diverse portfolio of leading brands that continue to set the standard in quality and performance. Learn about our commitment to the four retail pillars of success: innovation, training, merchandising, and marketing. See how these pillars drive our mission to deliver unparalleled value and support to our partners, ensuring mutual growth and success. Join us on this journey and find out why Airxcel is the partner of choice for those who demand the best.

The post Video: Airxcel Features ‘Better Brands, Better Experiences’ first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following is a communication from the Indiana Manufactured Housing Council-RV Indiana Council (IMHA-RVIC) and the Indiana Campground Owners Association (ICOA) to its members.

Gov. Mike Braun detailed his first budget proposal prioritizing small education increases and covering Medicaid while demanding big savings from agencies and cuts to a public health program.

Braun challenged his eight cabinet secretaries to identify 5% savings — “on average” — across the state agencies they oversee to pay for priorities like education spending, universal vouchers, and tax reform.  HB 1001 will face many changes as hearings begin in the House Ways and Means Committee. Several bills have been filed on tax credits for Hoosiers and more specifically property tax relief.

Speaking of property tax relief, SB 1 by Senator Travis Holdman (R-Markle), Chair of the Senate Tax & Fiscal Committee, amends the homestead standard deduction amount to equal either: (1) 60% of the homestead’s assessed value (AV), in the case of a homestead with an AV that exceeds $125,000; or (2) $48,000 plus 60% of the remaining AV, in the case of a homestead with an AV of $125,000 or less. Repeals the supplemental homestead deduction. The bill provides a maximum property tax liability credit for all taxable real property. Specifies the credit amount for homesteads and specifies the credit amount for all other taxable property. SB 1 is scheduled for a committee hearing on Tuesday, February 3, 2025, and will be the bill to watch on property tax relief.

Our RV industry is seeing progress on its legislative agenda. SB 484, authored by State Senator Blake Doriot (R-Goshen), establishes recreational vehicle dealer/manufacturer agreements for the sale of recreational vehicles in Indiana. SB 484 successfully passed the Indiana State Senate by a 47-1 vote and is headed to the Indiana House of Representatives for further consideration.

This is the first effort to provide an RV specific dealer/manufacturer agreement in Indiana law. In the past, you have seen auto manufacturer/dealer agreement legislation that didn’t include RVs. The reason is the RV industry has a completely different business model for manufacturer/dealer relationships. Auto dealerships have specific franchise agreements with a specific brand. RV dealers have relationships with multiple manufacturers and brands.

This is good for consumers, Manufacturers and Dealers as it guarantees fair and equitable treatment for all entities. We have had input and received the endorsement of this legislation from the RV Indiana Council, the RV Industry Association representing manufacturers, and the national RV Dealer Association.

SB 73, authored by State Senator Dan Dernulc (R-Highland), addresses the sale of utility trailers. It amends the definition of “motor vehicle” for purposes of dealer services provisions governing unfair practices and the succession to franchise by designated family members. It amends the definition of “trailer” and states that the requirement that a dealer does not have to have an established place of business; unless the dealer is required to be licensed for another purpose. Provides that a dealer selling trailers does not have to file certain information with the secretary of state. The bill is on the calendar for a final vote in the State Senate next week.

SB37, authored by State Senator Sue Glick (R-LaGrange), addresses tort reform for the commercial trucking industry. It creates a procedure to bifurcate a trial of a civil action filed against the operator of a commercial motor vehicle and the employer of the operator or the owner of the commercial motor vehicle involved in a motor vehicle accident. Allows a defendant to file a motion to bifurcate within a specified period of time. Provides that certain evidence may be presented in the first phase of a bifurcated trial. Allows a plaintiff to pursue punitive damages in the second phase of a bifurcated trial. This bill has been assigned to the Senate Judiciary Committee. At this time, it is awaiting a hearing.

HB1688, authored by State Representative Dave Heine (R-Fort Wayne), addresses sales a sales tax exemption on recreation vehicles. Provides that the purchase of a recreational vehicle or cargo trailer that is transported out of Indiana for registration and use in another state or foreign country is exempt from the state gross retail tax regardless of whether the destination state or country provides a similar exemption for Indiana residents. The bill is assigned to the House Committee on Ways and Means and awaits a hearing.

The post Indiana Governor, Legislation Making Waves in RV Industry first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LONSDALE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – With over 45 years of innovation in rugged mobile power solutions, REDARC is thrilled to announce its latest advancement in charging, the BCDC Alpha R. Now available in a 50A model, the BCDC Alpha R enhances the capabilities of REDARC’s BCDC range, offering unprecedented smart charging and monitoring features.

It’s more than a charger; it’s a mini vehicle power management system.  The BCDC Alpha R is a cutting-edge DC-DC charger designed to keep your auxiliary battery charged using power from both your vehicle’s alternator and solar panels. This ensures you always have reliable energy for your essential off-grid needs, such as powering fridges, lights, laptops, and even household appliances. Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or working remotely, the BCDC Alpha R keeps your power system running smoothly and worry-free.

The BCDC Alpha R represents the pinnacle of charging technology in the BCDC lineup. This model builds on the key features of the original BCDC Alpha while introducing additional functionality. The BCDC Alpha R will give you:

• Instant Insight: Monitor your setup remotely via the RedVision app or display. Similar to the monitoring capabilities of the Manager Alpha, this system provides instant insight into battery percentage, remaining charge, and current flow per input/output, ensuring detailed oversight of your power needs. Avoid ‘power anxiety’ by always knowing how much power you are using and what you have left.
• Total System Connectivity: Seamless integration with RedVision and TVMS products for a comprehensive power management system, and on-air updates ensure you always have the most updated technology. When used with the TVMS, users have the ability to switch on/off systems like lights and appliances directly through the RedVision app or display.
• Never worry about a dead vehicle start battery: The REDARC BCDC Alpha range are the only DC-DC chargers that offers both start battery charging and recovery.  Recover your flat start battery in just 15 minutes with the push of a button, getting you back on the road quickly and safely.
• Optimized Charging: Automatically adjusts charge mode in real time to meet a battery’s needs, maximizing efficiency and extending battery life.

The BCDC Alpha R retains the renowned functionalities of the BCDC Alpha, including compatibility with hybrid and electric vehicles, start battery recovery and charging, plus the capability for over-the-air updates. Installation is simple with pushbutton interface and screw connections, with no need for soldering.

“The BCDC Alpha R is our most sophisticated BCDC yet, enhancing the original model by integrating advanced system connectivity and control,” said Peter Favilla, REDARC’s Global President. “With visibility to battery state of charge, start battery recovery, and vastly simplified installation, this offering enables the end user to power their adventures and remove power anxiety.”  

The BCDC Alpha R, designed for in-cabin installation, comes packaged with REDARC’s Smart Battery Monitor (BSEN500) for advanced state of charge monitoring. For those looking to customize their setup further, optional TVMS systems and RedVision displays are available. Discover more about the BCDC Alpha Series and explore REDARC’s full range of innovative products by visiting www.redarcelectronics.com/bcdc-alpha

About REDARC

For over 45 years, REDARC has been a trusted name in power management and towing solutions, allowing adventurers to bring the comforts of modern living to the most remote locations. With products engineered, tested, and manufactured in Australia, REDARC delivers power systems that charge and manage batteries through vehicle, solar, or utility power. These systems power everything from essential safety equipment to household appliances, making outdoor adventures safer, longer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or touring, REDARC ensures that you have the power to enjoy your outdoor experience with confidence.

The post REDARC Releases BCDC Alpha R with Advanced Features first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

CWR Wholesale is hosting its CWR Dealer Training & Expo in Atlantic City, New Jersey for the RV and marine markets this week, Feb. 3-7 at the Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino & Marina.

The CWR Dealer Training & Expo is a five-day training and networking event focusing on dealer education. This is not a direct sales event, but there will be incentives, raffles, and giveaways during the manufacturer training sessions and expo.

“We firmly believe that education is the key to long-term success. After hosting several highly-acclaimed expositions elsewhere in the country, CWR, with the support of our manufacturers, representatives, and industry trade groups, is excited to provide this opportunity in Atlantic City,” according to the press release.

The event features training and product presentations from manufacturers, networking with vendors representing over 200 products lines, NMEA training courses, cocktail receptions, and get 5% of an entire order if you attend.

For more information and to register, go to https://cwrdistribution.com/expo.

The post CWR Dealer Training & Expo in Atlantic City Starts Today first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

CWR Wholesale is hosting its CWR Dealer Training & Expo in Atlantic City, New Jersey for the RV and marine markets this week, Feb. 3-7 at the Golden Nugget Atlantic City Hotel, Casino & Marina.

The CWR Dealer Training & Expo is a five-day training and networking event focusing on dealer education. This is not a direct sales event, but there will be incentives, raffles, and giveaways during the manufacturer training sessions and expo.

“We firmly believe that education is the key to long-term success. After hosting several highly-acclaimed expositions elsewhere in the country, CWR, with the support of our manufacturers, representatives, and industry trade groups, is excited to provide this opportunity in Atlantic City,” according to the press release.

The event features training and product presentations from manufacturers, networking with vendors representing over 200 products lines, NMEA training courses, cocktail receptions, and get 5% of an entire order if you attend.

For more information and to register, go to https://cwrdistribution.com/expo.

The post CWR Dealer Training & Expo in Atlantic City Starts Today first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.