The 2023 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, held at the illustrious Paris Las Vegas, marked a significant gathering in the recreational vehicle (RV) industry.
Spanning from November 6 to 10, this annual event, organized by the RV Dealers Association (RVDA), RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, served as a pivotal platform for dealers, manufacturers, and industry partners.
Despite a 10% decrease in attendance compared to the previous year, the event drew 1,645 registered dealers, exhibitors, and industry partners. This turnout underscored the event’s enduring relevance in an industry adapting to changing market dynamics and consumer preferences, according to a press release.
Under the stewardship of Chris Andro, chair of the RVDA Convention/Expo Committee, and the guidance of RVDA President Phil Ingrassia, the event was meticulously crafted to cater to a diverse range of dealer needs. Their leadership was instrumental in orchestrating an event that balanced educational enrichment with industry networking.
The Convention/Expo garnered substantial support from industry partners, a testament to its importance in preparing dealers for upcoming market challenges and opportunities. This collaboration highlighted the industry’s commitment to collective growth and advancement.
A highlight of the event was the election of Ryan Horsey as the 2023-24 RVDA chairman. Additionally, the convention was a stage for honoring excellence within the industry.
Mike Regan of Crestview RV received the James B. Summers Award, the association’s highest honor, while Sherman Goldenberg and the late Dan Pearson were bestowed with Titan awards.
These awards recognized individuals who have significantly contributed to the RV industry. The RVDA Chairman’s Service Award, presented by outgoing chairman Nathan Hart, further acknowledged the dedication and efforts of industry veterans, including Chris Andro, Jeff Hirsch, Ryan Horsey, and Bob Martin.
The event’s educational aspect was highlighted through various workshops covering key dealership operations areas such as finance and insurance (F&I), digital marketing, fixed operations, sales, and general management. These sessions provided valuable insights and strategies for enhancing dealership efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The workshops, led by industry experts, offered practical solutions and innovative approaches to everyday challenges faced by dealerships. This focus on education and skill development was a cornerstone of the event, aiming to elevate the standard of dealership operations across the industry.
Another significant feature of the event was the Vendor Training +Plus sessions. These exhibitor-led workshops provided a unique opportunity for dealership management to stay abreast of the latest industry products and services, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.
The exhibition hall was a bustling hub of activity, showcasing the latest offerings from top companies in the RV industry. It provided a dynamic space for attendees to explore new products, engage in business discussions, and forge valuable connections, reinforcing the event’s role as a key networking opportunity.
Looking ahead, the next RV Dealers Convention/Expo is scheduled for November 11-15, 2024, at Paris Las Vegas.
For those interested in partnership or sponsorship opportunities, Julie Newhouse can be contacted at (703) 364-5518 or [email protected]. The RVDA is located at 3930 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, reachable at (703) 591-7130.
Featured image from RV Dealers Association.