As November draws to a close, MC Fireside Chats is set to culminate with an exciting and in-depth discussion on camping, glamping, and RV industries. Join us on November 29, 2023, at 2 pm EST; this episode promises to offer a wealth of insights from notable figures in the field.
Host Brian Searl will be joined by special guests: Alena Assante, Co-Founder of Lulu Glamping; Troy Haney, Owner of Kacie’s Campground; and Ken Walters, CEO and President of the Jayco Inc.
Alena Assante is set to provide illuminating insights into Lulu Glamping’s latest ventures and projects, promising to highlight their innovative approaches in the glamping sector.
Troy Haney will share how he successfully converted a three-acre former scrapyard into the flourishing “Kacie’s Campground.” This transformation highlights the untapped potential of underutilized spaces, offering RV spots, walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
Ken Walters is poised to enlighten us on the cutting-edge trends and technological advancements in RV manufacturing. His insights will delve into how these innovations are reshaping consumer expectations and experiences in the RV industry
Don’t miss this invaluable opportunity to delve into the latest developments and emerging trends in the outdoor hospitality sector. This session is an essential gathering for enthusiasts, professionals, and industry stakeholders alike, offering a unique platform to engage with experts and partake in meaningful dialogues about the evolving future of camping, glamping, and RV experiences.
November 22 Episode Recap
In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks, a discussion unfolds about the RV industry with notable guests including Phil Ingrassia (President of RVDA), Eleanore Hamm (President of RVDA of Canada), Shane Devenish (Executive Director at CRVA), and special guest Mike Wendland from RV Lifestyle.
Mike Wendland, with his extensive experience in the RV lifestyle, shares his journey from starting a blog to expanding into a comprehensive multi-platform presence. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to changes in audience behavior and platform algorithms, highlighting the need for content diversification. Wendland’s perspective is particularly valuable, given his direct engagement with a broad RV audience through various digital channels.
The conversation then shifts to the broader challenges facing the RV industry. One significant issue discussed is the quality of RVs, particularly those manufactured during the COVID-19 pandemic years (2020 and 2021). Wendland notes an improvement in quality post-2021 but maintains that quality remains a concern. This point underscores the industry’s need to maintain high standards to ensure consumer satisfaction and industry growth.
Another critical topic is the state of campgrounds, both private and public. The panel agrees that the quality of campgrounds plays a crucial role in the overall RV experience. Brian Searl acknowledges the existence of both good and bad campgrounds, indicating that the impression they leave on RVers can significantly impact the industry’s perception.
The discussion also delves into the challenges of RV servicing and the supply of parts. Eleanore Hamm from RVDA of Canada addresses the difficulty dealers face in finding enough qualified technicians. This shortage, coupled with supply chain issues, has led to extended repair times, affecting the overall RV experience. Phil Ingrassia adds that the industry is focusing on reducing repair event cycle times, a critical factor for customer satisfaction.
Mike Wendland brings up the seasonal nature of the RV business, particularly in regions north of the Mason-Dixon line. He notes the challenges dealers face in maintaining staff for peak seasons and suggests that more publicity about employment opportunities as RV technicians could help alleviate some of these issues. He also mentions innovative training programs, including those reaching out to prisons, as a way to address the technician shortage.
A significant part of the discussion revolves around attracting new demographics to the RV lifestyle. The panel recognizes the importance of engaging younger generations and urban dwellers, who might not traditionally consider RV activities. Wendland and others emphasize the need for early exposure to outdoor activities and the industry’s efforts to make RVing more accessible and appealing.
Shane Devenish highlights the importance of addressing current problems while also creating a pipeline for future RV buyers. This dual focus is essential for the long-term success of the industry, balancing immediate needs with strategic future planning.
Mike Wendland also touches on the impact of remote work on the RV industry. He notes the improvement in campground internet access, which has facilitated remote work from RVs. Wendland suggests that advocating for remote work can help sustain and grow the RV industry, as it allows more people to integrate RVing into their lifestyles.
In his closing remarks, Brian Searl reiterates the value of diverse perspectives in understanding and addressing the challenges facing the RV industry. He acknowledges his own strong opinions but emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and considering different viewpoints.
The conversation concludes with acknowledgments of the insights shared and the importance of these discussions for the future of the RV industry. The participants express gratitude for the perspectives offered, highlighting the collaborative nature of addressing the industry’s challenges and opportunities.
Overall, the MC Fireside Chat provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the RV industry, covering a range of topics from quality control and service challenges to demographic engagement and the impact of remote work. The insights from industry leaders and experts like Mike Wendland offer valuable perspectives on both the challenges and opportunities facing the RV world today.
About MC Fireside Chats
MC Fireside Chats is a weekly show devoted to the outdoor hospitality industry. The show is hosted by Brian Searl, the founder and CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground.
Airing live every Wednesday at 2 p.m. (ET), MC Fireside Chats features guests from the camping and RV industry who share their take on the current state of the camping, glamping, and RVing sectors as well as upcoming innovations in RV parks, campgrounds, outdoor resorts, glamping, and the RV industry.
To listen to previous episodes of MC Fireside Chats, visit: https://moderncampground.com/mc-fireside-chats/