The following was issued by Craig Kirby, president and CEO of the RV Industry Association.
As we head into the 4th of July holiday, I wanted to send a note to our membership to thank you for your support of the organization and our member-driven mission to promote and protect the RV industry. We had a great RVs Move America Week earlier this month in our nation’s capital. It was so rewarding to once again be able to personally engage with so many of our members while moving the needle on Capitol Hill with several policy priorities.
Over the past several years, we’ve seen millions of new people become RVers. They find enjoyment and freedom through not only our products, but also in the incredible physical and mental health benefits that come from living an active outdoor lifestyle.
While early 2022 RV shipment results have been strong, all of us in the industry see that the market is leveling off against 2021’s record numbers – the fact is you cannot endlessly maintain a record-breaking pace. However, despite any cooling the industry is experiencing, we’re still on pace for one of the best years the industry has ever seen, building on more than 40 years of sustained growth.
Through innovation and collaboration with all industry segments, we are elevating the consumer experience and, as a result, paving the way for continued long-term success.
The RV industry is healthy. We’re more resilient than ever with younger and more diverse owners entering the RV lifestyle every day. The association’s recent RVs Move America Economic Impact Study also showed we contribute an overall annual impact to the US economy of $140 billion. The industry supports nearly 680,000 jobs, paying more than $48 billion in wages. These are incredible figures – and they cement the fact that the RV industry is a major player in the overall outdoor recreation economy.
Hopefully, each of you will be able to take a break to enjoy the 4th of July holiday. Please take a moment to not only think about the health and strength of our amazing industry, but also about the millions of consumers who will be out in campgrounds enjoying the holiday with family and friends in the RV products that our great industry brings to market.
Thank you and I hope you and yours have a happy 4th of July!
