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Articles by Jim Mac
Keller Marine & RV Dealer Show Opens Monday in Fla. - Woodall's Campground Magazine
Keller Marine & RV, the Port Trevorton, Penn.-based family-owned distributor with warehouses in Pennsylvania, Florida, and Louisiana, kicks off its annual dealer show Monday, Nov. 2, in Palmetto, Fla., at the newly renovated Bradenton Convention Center. "In an increasingly competitive marketplace, dealership success requires more than selling quality product," said Lori Morrow, Keller's director of marketing.
Baird Analyst Antonelli Sees Significant Opportunities
Michael Antonelli, Market Strategist at Baird Private Wealth Management, concluded the Power Breakfast on a positive note, encouraging RV executives to recognize the significant opportunities in today’s market and in the decades ahead. Instead of presenting typical, dry financial charts, Antonelli took a different approach. Using demographic data, he focused on the factors he claims could drive another golden age of RV sales in the near future.
Outdoorsy Pivots, Intros Broader Mobility Ecosystem Strategy
Outdoorsy, a peer-to-peer RV rental company, is expanding beyond its original RV-focused marketplace. The company is moving into a broader mobility ecosystem that encompasses auto rentals and management of autonomous vehicle fleets, according to a press release. Outdoorsy announced its business expansion at its inaugural Business of Travel Summit last month in Austin, Texas.
Outdoorsy Broadens its Business & Promotes RV Deliveries
Outdoorsy, a leader in the peer-to-peer RV rental industry, is expanding beyond its original RV-focused marketplace. The company is moving into a broader mobility ecosystem that encompasses auto rentals and management of autonomous vehicle fleets. Outdoorsy announced its business expansion at its inaugural Business of Travel Summit last month in Austin, Texas.
Outdoorsy Wraps Up Its Inaugural Business of Travel Summit
Concluding April 8 in Austin, Texas, the Outdoorsy Group wrapped up its inaugural two-and-a-half-day Business of Travel Summit with what the company described as “incredible energy.” The event brought together over 400 guests, including Superhosts, industry visionaries and partners, to discuss how to gain a competitive advantage in 2026 and beyond, including the roles that AI and autonomous technology are playing in reshaping the category.
Outdoorsy Group Wraps Up ‘Business of Travel Summit’
Jeff Cavins, CEO and co-founder, and Jen Young, CMO and co-founder of The Outdoorsy Group Concluding April 8 in Austin, Texas, the Outdoorsy Group wrapped up its inaugural two-and-a-half-day Business of Travel Summit with what the company described as “incredible energy.” The event brought together over 400 guests, including Superhosts, industry visionaries, and partners, to discuss how to gain a competitive advantage in 2026 and beyond, including the roles that AI and autonomous technology...
Calif. RV Show Draws 20,000-Plus Despite Rising Gas Prices
Despite rising gas prices and war, the California RV Show, held March 20-22, drew more than 20,000 paying visitors. The event, which took place at the Pomona Fairplex, was the first major RV show in Southern California in almost six years. “Given there hadn’t been anything in California for years, I thought anything over 10,000 attendees would be a success,” said RV Supershows President Rob Lynch. “The fact that we exceeded my expectations by more than double truly excites me for the future.
California RV Show Reports Huge Attendance in Pomona
POMONA, Calif. – Despite rising gas prices and war, the California RV Show, held March 20-22, drew more than 20,000 paying visitors. The event, which took place at the Pomona Fairplex, was the first major RV show in Southern California in almost six years. “Given there hadn’t been anything in California for years, I thought anything over 10,000 attendees would be a success,” said RV Supershows President Rob Lynch.
Iran War Doesn’t Seem to Affect Several Recent RV Shows
Despite the conflict in Iran and the Middle East beginning this past weekend, RV show attendees appeared unconcerned, as the positive attendance and sales trend the industry has observed since January continued. Attendance records and strong sales were set during a handful of consumers shows this past weekend in: the Pennsylvania RV Supershow, Feb. 26 to March 1, at the Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg, Pa., the Philadelphia RV Show, Feb.
Near Record Traffic Highlights Toronto’s ‘Big One’ Show
The Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show, billed as Canada’s largest RV show, wrapped up Sunday, March 1, marked by bustling crowds and interested shoppers. The four-day event, held at the International Center in the Toronto suburb of Mississauga, drew 27,378 attendees, just 600 short of the all-time high set in 2024. The show covered approximately 400,000 square feet and featured over 500 RVs on display, with 27 dealers participating. “It was wonderful.
Abbotsford’s Early Bird RV Show Continues Positive Trend
One of the premier RV shows in Western Canada concluded on Sunday, Feb. 22, and the Early Bird RV Show and Sale at the TRADEX center in Abbotsford, British Columbia, wrapped up with encouraging results. The four-day event, hosted by MTD Promotions, attracted about 7,000 visitors and featured four dealerships showcasing over 200 units. Additionally, 25 exhibitors provided a range of offerings, including campgrounds, insurance, parts and accessories.
Springfield RV Show Brings Good Weather, Smiles & Sales
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – The Springfield RV, Camping and Outdoor Show concluded its four-day run on President’s Day, with what show co-chairperson Sherrie Vilbon described as “wonderful weather, lots of people, and smiles on our exhibitors’ faces.” Since 1963, the show has been produced by members of the Pioneer Valley Chapter 8 of the North American Family Camper’s Association (NAFCA) and is run entirely by volunteers.
Sales Up, Attendance Down Slightly at Houston RV Show
Although traffic was down slightly, the five-day Houston RV Show, which ran Feb. 11-15, ended up with stronger-than-expected sales, leaving dealers and the show organizers in an upbeat mood.
NCRVDA Raleigh RV Show Comes Up Big in North Carolina
After rolling snake-eyes on the weather-stricken Charlotte Show, the North Carolina RV Dealers Association hit all sevens-and-11s this weekend with the Progressive NCRVDA Raleigh Show. Held from Feb. 13-15 at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, the event delivered impressive results, according to NCRVDA Director Jeff Haughton. Attendance on Saturday increased by 18% compared to the previous year, contributing to an overall growth of nearly 10%. In total, more than 9,200 people attended the show.
Clearsource RV Water Filters Celebrates 10th Anniversary
More RV owners are recognizing the importance of ensuring safe and clean water during their camping adventures. This increasing awareness is driven by several factors, including health and safety concerns, a desire for better-tasting hydration, and a commitment to reducing waste from single-use plastic water bottles. While some RVers take their chances without a water filter, and others choose a basic in-line filter, a growing number are opting for advanced systems.
Chicago RV & Camping Show Said to be the ‘Best In Years’
ROSEMONT, Ill. — The 57th Annual Chicago RV & Camping Show, held Feb. 12-15 in the Chicagoland suburb of Rosemont, saw a significant increase in attendance as well as strong sales. The event, held at the Stephens Convention Center in the shadow of O’Hare International Airport, is touted as the largest RV show in the Midwest. It featured 11 dealerships, showcased over 400 RVs, included more than 65 vendors, and occupied more than 700,000 square feet of the expansive suburban Chicago facility.
Fort Myers & Jacksonville Shows Mixed, But Mostly Positive
Attendees take in the displays at the Ft. Myers RV Show. Recent Florida-based RV shows in Fort Myers (Jan. 29 to Feb. 1) and Jacksonville (Feb. 5-8) showed mixed but generally positive results. “Overall, dealers seemed quite pleased with what they were seeing,” said Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) Executive Director Dave Kelly. “We are continuing the positive trend we noticed at the SuperShow in Tampa; attitudes are improving, and people are more optimistic and very upbeat.
RV Education 101’s Mark Polk Launching ‘RV 101 Podcast’
Since 1999, Mark and Dawn Polk have passionately dedicated themselves to educating RV owners about their vehicles. Long before influencers popularized the subject or it became a trend, the Polks taught consumers virtually everything about RVs. So, it’s no surprise that Polk has launched a video podcast aimed at addressing topics of concern for most RV owners. The first podcast, published Feb.
Smaller Crowds, More Buyers at 2026 Fort Wayne RV Show
Although the Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show in Indiana this past weekend (Jan. 29 to Feb. 1) did not break attendance records, the results were still encouraging, potentially signaling a busy selling season ahead. “Our attendance was off a little bit — perhaps due to the cold, cold weather — but it was a very enthusiastic crowd, a very educated crowd,” said Matt Rose, associate executive director of the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association-Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council (IMHA/RVIA).
Alabama, Georgia, Iowa Supershows Draw Crowds, Buyers
EDITOR’S NOTE: In our review of early-season retail shows across the country, RVBusiness aims to provide a snapshot of the market at a micro level. While conditions can change and opinions may differ, we hope these insights provide valuable information on retail shows in the U.S. and Canada. The results of three RV shows held in smaller markets — Huntsville, Ala.; Dalton, Ga.; and Davenport, Iowa — this past weekend suggest a positive outlook for the RV industry in 2026.
Smaller Crowds, More Buyers at 2026 Fort Wayne RV Show
Although the Fort Wayne RV & Camping Show in Indiana this past weekend (Jan. 29 to Feb. 1) did not break attendance records, the results were still encouraging, potentially signaling a busy selling season ahead. “Our attendance was off a little bit — perhaps due to the cold, cold weather — but it was a very enthusiastic crowd, a very educated crowd,” said Matt Rose, associate executive director of the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association-Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council (IMHA/RVIA).
Dealers Leave Kansas City Show Upbeat Despite Winter Storm
Attendees at RV shows across the eastern United States faced winter storms and sub-zero temperatures this weekend. Despite the harsh conditions, those who visited the Kansas RV Show were generally serious buyers. This insight was shared by Valarie Clark, the event manager for the Kansas City RV Show, which took place from January 23 to 25 at the KC Convention Center and featured 14 dealerships.
Charlotte RV Show Rescheduled Due to Potential Ice Storm
Jeff Haughton, director of the North Carolina RV Dealers Association, announced that the Charlotte RV Show — one of the largest RV events in the region — has been rescheduled from the weekend of Jan. 23-25 to the following weekend due to an impending winter storm. “There’s a potential for severe weather, including ice,” Haughton stated.
Despite Winter Storms, New England RV Show Called a Success
The New England RV Supershow, which concluded Monday, Jan. 19, following a four-day run at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center that showcased nine dealers and a wide variety of national manufacturers. This year’s event — it’s annually one of the industry’s leading shows and a key indicator for the upcoming season — was a resounding success, officials noted.
Encouraging Signs from Indianapolis & South Bend RV Shows
This past weekend wrapped up two major shows sponsored by the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association – Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council (IMHA-RVIC). Officials involved with the Indy RV Expo and Sale and the Valley RV and Camping Show report substantial traffic, sales, and an overall upbeat attitude among both dealers and show attendees.
Encouraging Signs from Indianapolis, South Bend RV Shows
This past weekend wrapped up two major shows sponsored by the Indiana Manufactured Housing Association – Recreation Vehicle Indiana Council (IMHA-RVIC). Officials involved with the Indy RV Expo and Sale and the Valley RV and Camping Show report substantial traffic, sales, and an overall upbeat attitude among both dealers and show attendees.
Meyer Mega Show Well Received, Welcomes New Dealers
FRENCH LICK, Ind. — Highlighted by a surprise visit and brief remarks by Indiana Gov. Mike Braun, dealers, vendors and distributor staff gathered at the historic French Lick Hotel in southern Indiana for the annual two-day Meyer Distributing RV Mega Show. Braun was the owner and CEO of Meyer Distributing until his political career began, at which time he stepped from the company.
‘Positive’ Chicago RV Show a Sign of Better Times Ahead?
While one show does not define an entire year, reports from this past weekend’s Chicago RV Show suggest that 2026 could be the kind of year the RV industry has been looking for. Held Jan. 9-11 at the Renaissance Convention Center in Schaumburg, Ill., the event set a record for attendance, increasing by 20% compared to last year, according to Ryan Lynch, owner of RV Supershows.
Meyer Distributing’s 2026 Mega Show Starts Next Week
FRENCH LICK, Ind. — The first distributor show of 2026 is about to begin, as Meyer Distributing will hold its annual Mega Show Jan. 12 -14 at the French Lick Resort and Casino in southern Indiana. 2025 was a year of growth for the Jasper, Ind.-based company, which included adding several distribution locations and acquiring Oklahoma-based Arrow Distribution. Company officials say dealers and vendors can expect an optimistic, upbeat show.
Elderly Woman Found Alive at Her Funeral in Nonthaburi
Pictures courtesy of Amarin An elderly woman was discovered alive just before her cremation at Wat Rat Prakong Tham in Nonthaburi on 23 November 2025. Relatives had brought her from Phitsanulok, believing she had died the previous night. Staff at the temple were shocked to find her moving and breathing normally when the coffin was opened. The woman had been pronounced dead in Phitsanulok and her body was transported by her family in a coffin on a vehicle for cremation.
Season 7 of ‘The RVers’ Show Premieres Sunday on Discovery
Producer Anthony Nalli’s “The RVers” television show begins Season 7 at 7:30 a.m., (ET) Sunday, Nov. 23, on the Discovery Channel. In today’s world of social media, influencers and short attention spans, it is remarkable that a one-hour program focused on the RV lifestyle has achieved such longevity and success. Nalli, an enthusiastic RV owner, attributes the show’s success to its documentary style and to its active engagement with viewers about their preferences.
Coachmen, Other OEMs Address Loss of GM BrightDrop
In a surprising turn of events, General Motors CEO Mary Barra announced on Oct. 21 that the company will cease production of the BrightDrop electric van. This decision is expected to have significant repercussions for specific segments of the RV industry, particularly for two RV manufacturers closely associated with this innovative vehicle. One of those manufacturers affected is Middlebury, Ind.-based Coachmen RV, a division of Forest River Inc.
Laurelhurst Distributors to Host an Open House on Oct. 3
PORTLAND, Ore. – Laurelhurst Distributors will hold an open house on Oct. 3 at its facilities, located at 8904 NE Alderwood Road in Portland, Ore. The event will feature vendor representation from approximately 80 brands. Tech school sessions will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the opening of the show floor at 10 a.m.. A food truck lunch will begin around noon. Additionally, at the start of each hour, representatives will conduct product seminars to educate dealers.
Breakfast: Pair of RVIA Leaders Provide Industry Updates
RVIA Chair Mary Pouliot and RVIA Executive Director Craig Kirby brought the attendees up to date on some of the initiatives the association is conducting on behalf of its members, highlighting the collaborative nature of the work and the importance of each member’s contribution. Pouliot, executive vice president of Thetford North America, specifically addressed the activity of RVIA’s government affairs teams.
Hipcamp, REI Partner to Promote ‘Favorite’ Camping Spots
Hipcamp, the San Francisco-based company that pioneered the Airbnb model for camping, has partnered with REI, the outdoor gear and apparel co-op with 24 million members. Together, they will promote some of the favorite camping spots chosen by REI members. “We’ve built a collection of REI member favorite camping spots,” explained Hipcamp’s head of partnerships, Kristen Vasan.
Blu Tech Intros Compact UV Water Protection for Whole RV
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Blu Technology, the manufacturer of BluTech multi-stage compact RV water filtration systems, has announced the addition of the AR3 LED UVC advanced pathogen protection system. “With the introduction of the AR3 LED UVC, we have enhanced our popular 3-stage filtration system,” said Blu Tech President Corbin Collet.
Liquified RV ‘Punches Its Golden Ticket’ with Walmart
Liquified RV, a Florida-based company that specializes in enzyme- and bacteria-based RV holding tank treatments, has announced a significant partnership with Walmart. Starting Saturday, March 15, its products will be available in over 1,700 Walmart stores. “We got the Golden Ticket,” exclaimed Liquified owner Matt Foxcroft, referring to the coveted contracts awarded following Walmart’s Open Call.
Serial Entrepreneur Heath Padgett Launches ‘RV Help’
Heath Padgett and co-founders Josiah Mann and Dennis Lankes have launched RV Help, a solution for connecting RV owners with certified mobile technicians and inspectors. With a strong history of successful startups in the RV industry, Padgett hopes to transform how RV owners access essential services. At the recent Florida RV SuperShow, Padgett and his partners unveiled their new venture to the media, industry professionals, and consumers. “It went really well,” explained Padgett.
Serial Entrepreneur Heath Padgett Launches ‘RV Help’
Heath Padgett and co-founders Josiah Mann and Dennis Lankes have launched RV Help, a solution for connecting RV owners with certified mobile technicians and inspectors. With a strong history of successful startups in the RV industry, Padgett hopes to transform how RV owners access essential services. At the recent Florida RV SuperShow, Padgett and his partners unveiled their new venture to the media, industry professionals, and consumers. “It went really well,” explained Padgett.
Meyer RV Mega Show Attendees Buoyed by ‘Promising’ 2025
FRENCH LICK, Ind. – While it is difficult to predict what 2025 will bring – it’s only 15 days into the new year and many dealers have yet to start the show season – but those attending the Meyer Mega Show in French Lick, Ind., expressed optimism about improving conditions. However, the degree of that improvement remains uncertain. “I think people are just glad that the election is over,” one well-respected industry executive told RVBusiness while standing in his show display.
Meyer Distributing’s RV Mega Show is Underway in Indiana
FRENCH LICK, Ind. – The blanket of snow with temperatures in the teens did not dampen the enthusiasm of dealers and vendors for the start of the Meyer Distributing RV Mega Show, a two-day event that began Tuesday (Jan. 14) at the French Lick Hotel Event Center in French Lick in southern Indiana. As is customary, opening day was filled with seminars. Vendors conducted over 30 sessions, providing dealers with a wealth of information.
RVshare’s ‘What’s Next in Travel’ Webinar Identifies Trends
RVshare, a major peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, conducted its annual “What’s Next” webinar on Wednesday, Dec. 11, discussing the latest travel trends, data-driven insight, and forecasts for 2025. Insights from the webinar (and related Travel Trend Report) can help educate planning and forecasting for RV OEMs, suppliers, dealers, and campgrounds, RVshare stated.
Season 6 of ‘The RVers’ Television Show to Premiere Sunday
Season six of The RVers will launch at 8:30 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 24, on Discovery’s Destination America. The popular series will showcase some new cast members while taking “a deeper delve into the captivating word or RVing” and feature some stunning destinations and incredible stories of the people they meet. In the fast-paced world of television, six seasons is no mean feat (Friends, The Office, Breaking Bad, Grey’s Anatomy, and Game of Thrones ended on this milestone).
ReFresh RV Offering New Dealership Participation Program
ReFresh RV, the Omaha, Neb.-based company with a proprietary solution to revitalize and protect RV exteriors, will introduce a dealer-direct program this month. Company president and co-founder Jason Grimm told RVBusiness that the timing is ideal as dealers look for more ways to boost income when new and used RV sales are depressed. Until now, ReFresh was available only through company employees and subcontractors, severely limiting the number of customers the company could accommodate.
Keystone to Debut Stars ‘n Stripes-Themed Toy Hauler on 9/11
GOSHEN, Ind. – On Sept. 11, opening day of the America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, Pa., Keystone RV’s Fuzion brand will unveil its patriotically themed fifth wheel, according to a press release. The 40-plusd feet toy hauler will feature bold, American flag-inspired graphics, a field of iridescent stars and a matte-grey on matte-black paint scheme.
Startup Aims to Reinvigorate Dealers’ Aged Inventory
OMAHA, Neb. – New RVs can prematurely show their age after months of sitting on a dealer’s lot. The same goes for used inventory. The result is that sales associates shy away from showing a long-in-the-tooth coach, while dealership profit goes in the tank when the RV finally sells or is wholesaled. One company aims to change all of this with its proprietary process, which, it claims, restores the RV exterior like new and lasts for years.
Escapees RV Club 63rd Annual ‘Escapade’ Opens Sunday
The Escapees RV Club’s 63rd Annual Escapade Rally will be held June 16-21 at the Sweetwater Events Complex in Rock Springs, Wyo. The six-day event will include 67 technical and educational seminars, daily live entertainment, vendors, and plenty of opportunities for attendees to socialize, share experiences, and learn from one another.
RV Lifestyle Show ‘The RVers’ Sweep Annual Telly Awards
The RVers, an RV lifestyle show, has recently been honored with a string of prestigious Telly Awards. These include a Gold in the TV Series: Education and Discover category, a Silver in the TV Series: Culture and Lifestyle category, and a Bronze in the Travel and Tourism category. This recognition is a testament to the show’s quality and ability to captivate audiences, especially considering it was chosen from over 13,000 entries.
Overland Expo West a Success for Dometic and Winnebago
By all accounts, Overland Expo West was a resounding success, according to show officials. Celebrating 15 years in Flagstaff, Ariz., the three-day gathering that concluded Sunday, May 19, drew just under 30,000 outdoor adventure-loving attendees –a near record – along with 415 registered exhibitors, 119 presenters, trainers and VIPs, and hosted 318 classes, seminars and activities.
Overland Expo West Opens in Ariz.; Dometic, GMC Partner
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Starting today (May 17), Overland Expo West kicks off with three days of camping, exhibits and education for overlanding enthusiasts at the Ft. Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff, Ariz. The event will run through Sunday, May 19. In a separate release, Dometic, a leader in outdoor tech solutions, announces availability of its premium overlanding and outdoor lineup on select GMC products. (scroll down for more).
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