So how’s the RV business?

By Carla Waldemar

Josh Skiller, general manager of Countryside Interiors Inc., Junction City, Ore., launched in 1981, reports that following a market decline business has bounced back up. “It’s level again, and today people are asking for more upgrades too,” he says.

“It’s been a learning experience,” says Dave Ast, co-owner, Dave and LJ’s RV Interior Design, Woodland, Wash. “The business was started in bad times, but now it’s really flourishing. We haven’t had a slow day in 10 years.”

“Business had been growing until this past winter,” reports Ernie Bessant, owner of Len’s Alternative RV Parts and Service, Brandon, Man., Canada. “Now, again, the phone doesn’t stop ringing.”

Classic Coach Works, Lakeland, Fla., also has been “very busy,” says Stephanie Williams, vice president and co-owner. “Up since 2008. When the economy is down, people hang onto their RVs longer, putting money into refurbishing.”

Fabric Services, Bristol, Ind., also reports “a very busy year,” says Michele Kay, RV marketing manager. “As gas prices go up, spending on RVs usually goes down, but not this year.”

Carla Waldemar is a freelance writer based in Minneapolis, Minn.