The RV/MH Hall of Fame hosted the largest crowd in its history at the 12th annual RV Industry Power Breakfast last week, signaling a robust interest in the recreational vehicle sector. More than 1,350 industry professionals gathered to discuss current challenges and emerging trends within the market.
Rick Kessler served as the emcee for the event, which has become a cornerstone for networking and insight into the RV industry. Kessler opened the breakfast by noting the unprecedented number of attendees and the optimistic atmosphere despite recent market fluctuations.
Darryl Searer, president of the RV/MH Hall of Fame, underscored the growth of the event and the industry in a video statement. He recalled a comment from a past breakfast suggesting the need for a larger venue, a reality that has come to fruition with the current space being more than double the size of previous venues.
The program featured a lineup of 13 distinguished speakers from various facets of the industry, including Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA, and Craig Kirby, president and CEO of the RV Industry Association. Their discussions focused on how the RV industry continues to adapt and thrive, particularly following the outdoor surge in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
O’Rourke, as quoted in an Elkhart Truth report, highlighted the increased interest in outdoor hospitality and camping, noting that one out of every three leisure trips last year involved camping. “This is quite phenomenal,” she stated. “We should all congratulate ourselves with how far this industry has come.”
Further emphasizing the evolution of the industry, O’Rourke presented data showing increased engagement among campers, the return of baby boomers to camping, and expansions in campground capacities. Notably, the industry has seen shifts toward shorter booking windows and a rise in same-day reservations.
A significant portion of the breakfast focused on the technological advancements impacting the RV industry. O’Rourke pointed out the adoption of artificial intelligence as a disruptive trend, with 50 percent of campers now using AI tools to plan their trips and for customer service enhancements.
The event concluded with a forward-looking analysis by Bernard Baumohl, chief global economist at The Economic Outlook Group.
This year’s RV Power Breakfast not only highlighted the enduring appeal and resilience of the RV market but also showcased the innovative approaches that leaders are taking to navigate the evolving landscape of outdoor recreation. The record attendance and comprehensive discussions reflect a sector that is not only recovering but thriving with renewed vigor and adaptability.