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Grand Design RV officials are proud to announce the launch of Transcend Lite, a new addition to its Transcend lineup thoughtfully designed to make RV ownership more attainable for a wider range of travelers. The company aims to provide an affordable entry point into the RV lifestyle without compromising on quality and comfort. The first floorplan, the 121RBL, features a compact, easy-to-manage design built with simplicity and convenience in mind. This approach is expected to appeal to campers transitioning from tent or pop-up camping, who are looking for a comfortable and approachable step up into RV ownership. Transcend Lite units are designed to be lightweight and manageable in size, making them towable by a wider range of vehicles. This combination of ease of towing and user-friendly design helps remove common barriers for first-time buyers, opening the door to more families and adventurers looking to hit the road and explore the outdoors. The new model focuses on practical features, ease of use, and quality construction, delivering an exceptional balance of affordability and comfort. This makes it one of the best values for those beginning their RV journey. Transcend Lite is designed to make getting into the RV lifestyle more attainable without losing sight of what matters most to customers,

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) Governance Committee has begun working on this year's board of directors election, marking an important milestone in the industry's organizational structure. The committee is responsible for overseeing the nomination process and preparing a ballot of qualified RV industry leaders. This process ensures that only strong candidates are considered for the positions available, which will be filled by the end of 2026. The three seats up for election represent different segments of the RV industry: one manufacturer, one park model RV manufacturer, and one supplier. The successful candidates will take office on January 1, 2027, and begin serving their three-year terms. This transition is crucial for maintaining the association's momentum and ensuring its continued growth. The nomination process is designed to identify strong candidates from member companies that are interested in upholding the responsibilities of the board of directors. The RVIA Bylaws provide a clear framework for this process, including requirements for nominations and review by the Governance Committee. The election takes place during late August and early September, with results announced near the end of that month. This timeline allows the newly elected board members to settle into their roles before taking on the association's key responsibilities. The RVIA board of directors is responsible for setting and overseeing strategy and policies related to critical topics such as standards, marketing, government affairs, industry education, statistical data, and association finances. The board plays a crucial role in shaping the association's direction and ensuring its continued success. The election process is an important part of this, as it allows new members to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. Former board chairs who are still active in the industry are welcome to continue serving, providing valuable experience and expertise to the organization. The nomination deadline for qualified nominees is July 3, with submissions sent to RV Industry Association Vice President and General Counsel Kyle Correa-Brady. This ensures that all nominations are thoroughly reviewed and considered before the final ballot is prepared. By following this process, the RVIA Governance Committee aims to identify strong candidates who will uphold the association's responsibilities and drive its continued growth and success.

Auto-Motion Shade has launched its new SCP/TCP737 Day/Night Shade, a sleek and modern window shading solution designed for marine and recreational vehicles. The shade features slim-line extrusions and a refined profile that maximizes window coverage and usability. The SCP/TCP737 is engineered for simplicity, with a quick front facing 4-screw installation system that allows for fast and secure mounting with minimal effort. This installer-friendly design reduces setup time while ensuring a durable, professional finish. Available in multiple configurations, the 737 series offers flexible day/night light management options, including cellular fabric with screen fabric for privacy, insulation, and nighttime blackout, or cellular and screen fabrics for mosquito protection in the daytime and blackout at night. The dual-shade system allows users to transition seamlessly between filtered daylight and nighttime privacy, delivering comfort and convenience throughout the day. With its compact profile and versatile fabric options, the SCS/TCS737 Day/Night Shade sets a new benchmark for modern window shading systems. According to Christian Knapp, owner of Auto-Motion Shade, the SCS/TCS737 reflects the company's commitment to combining innovative affordable engineering with elevated design. OEMs and their customers want products that are easy to install, stylish, and highly functional—and this new shade delivers on all three. The SCP/TCP737 Day/Night Shade is an ideal choice for marine and recreational vehicle applications where style and space efficiency matter. Its modern European look and slim-line extrusions make it a popular choice among boat owners and RV enthusiasts. By introducing the SCP/TCP737 Day/Night Shade, Auto-Motion Shade has expanded its product range to cater to the growing demand for innovative window shading solutions in the marine recreational vehicle industry. The company's focus on simplicity, flexibility, and durability has positioned it as a leader in the market. The SCS/TCS737 Day/Night Shade is just one example of the company's commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet the needs of its customers. For more information about the 737 series of day/night shades or the full range of AMS shading solutions, contact your local representative or Auto-Motion Shade directly. The introduction of the SCP/TCP737 Day/Night Shade marks a significant milestone in the evolution of window shading systems for marine and recreational vehicles. With its sleek design and versatile features, it is poised to revolutionize the industry.

KOA Holiday's Thousand Islands / Ivy Lea KOA Holiday campground has seen a dramatic improvement in guest satisfaction under new ownership, with a Net Promoter Score (NPS) rising from 29.9 to 70. This significant increase is a benchmark for excellence, and it reflects the efforts of Shawn and Christine Kim, who have brought a shared love of the outdoors and a clear vision for the future to the campground. The campground's NPS improvement is a direct result of the Kim family's focus on enhancing the guest experience while positioning the campground for growth. Guests can enjoy easy access to boating, fishing, hiking, and the Thousand Islands National Park, making it an ideal destination for families and friends looking to unplug and reconnect. The location's blend of natural beauty and small-town charm serves as a perfect backdrop for creating lifelong memories. Shawn Kim, owner of the KOA Holiday, expressed his excitement about creating a welcoming space for all ages and camping styles. He noted that the local support has been invaluable and that he is eager to grow alongside this community. Campgrounds like the Thousand Islands / Ivy Lea KOA Holiday have a significant economic and cultural impact on local communities. According to KOA's annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers injected $66 billion into local economies in 2025.

The recent Executive Order issued by President Donald Trump marks a significant shift in U.S. customs enforcement policies. The order aims to strengthen the country's border security by imposing stricter requirements on all importers of record. This move is part of a broader effort to combat smuggling, intellectual property theft, and other forms of illicit activity that can undermine national security and economic interests. The Executive Order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to enhance customs enforcement by implementing stricter requirements for importers of record. This includes increasing the minimum level of assets required in the United States, as well as expanding screening and verification procedures for individuals and companies involved in importing goods. The new regulations will also limit the use of informal entry procedures to U.S.-based importers, while imposing additional requirements on foreign importers using the formal entry process. This change is intended to reduce the risk of smuggling and ensure that all importers comply with relevant laws and regulations. Furthermore, the Executive Order requires all importers to remain in 'good standing' to conduct import activities. This means that importers must maintain higher customs bonds or meet specific asset requirements to avoid penalties and fines. The impact of these new regulations will be felt across various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and e-commerce. Small and medium-sized businesses may face particular challenges in complying with the increased screening and verification procedures. In addition to the regulatory changes, the Executive Order also highlights the importance of effective communication and collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and importers themselves. The RV Industry Association has announced that it will continue to provide information as it becomes available on the new regulations. The association's Tariffs Tracker offers a comprehensive overview of tariffs currently enacted, which may be useful for businesses looking to navigate the changing regulatory landscape. s warn that the new regulations could lead to increased costs and complexity for importers, particularly those with limited resources or experience in complying with customs regulations. The implementation of these new regulations will require significant investments of time and resources from importers, as well as a commitment to ongoing compliance and training. As the U.S. economy continues to evolve, it is essential that customs enforcement policies remain agile and responsive to emerging threats and opportunities.

Iowa has officially become the 25th state to establish a dedicated Office of Outdoor Recreation (OREC), marking a major step forward for the outdoor economy. This development is expected to have a positive impact on the state's tourism industry, as well as its overall economic growth. The OREC will focus on promoting and supporting outdoor recreation activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing, which are already popular in Iowa. By providing resources and infrastructure for these activities, the OREC aims to increase participation and accessibility for residents and visitors alike. The announcement was made by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds at Lake Ahquabi State Park on June 8, a location that has been designated as a key outdoor recreation site. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for fishing and boating. Its designation as a state park highlights the importance of preserving and promoting Iowa's natural resources for future generations. The establishment of the OREC is also seen as a way to promote sustainable tourism practices in Iowa. By supporting environmentally-friendly outdoor recreation activities, the office aims to reduce the state's carbon footprint and promote eco-tourism. This approach aligns with growing consumer demand for responsible travel options that minimize environmental impact. While the exact details of the OREC's operations are still being finalized, it is clear that this development will have a significant impact on Iowa's outdoor economy. As the 25th state to establish an OREC, Iowa joins a growing list of states that recognize the importance of outdoor recreation in driving economic growth and quality of life. The growth of the outdoor economy has been steadily increasing over the past few years, with more Americans turning to outdoor activities as a way to stay active and connected. The establishment of the OREC is a key step forward in this trend, providing Iowa residents and visitors with access to a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. In addition to promoting outdoor recreation, the OREC will also focus on supporting local communities that rely on tourism for their economic development. By providing resources and infrastructure for outdoor recreation activities, the office aims to increase economic benefits for rural areas and small towns across Iowa. The establishment of the OREC is a significant milestone for Iowa's outdoor economy, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of outdoor recreation in driving economic growth and quality of life. As the state continues to promote its natural resources and outdoor recreation opportunities, it is likely that the OREC will play an increasingly important role in shaping Iowa's tourism industry. Overall, the establishment of the Office of Outdoor Recreation in Iowa marks a major step forward for the state's outdoor economy. By providing resources and infrastructure for outdoor recreation activities, the office aims to increase participation and accessibility for residents and visitors alike, while also promoting sustainable tourism practices that minimize environmental impact. As the OREC continues to develop its operations, it is likely that we will see increased investment in Iowa's natural resources and outdoor recreation infrastructure. This could include new park developments, trail expansions, and other initiatives that support outdoor recreation activities. By supporting these efforts, the OREC aims to create a more vibrant and sustainable outdoor economy for Iowa residents and visitors.

The outdoor hospitality industry is under pressure as small businesses struggle with the financial burden of high swipe fees. The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) aims to inject competition into the market, but its passage remains uncertain. OHI's Capitol Hill fly-in brought together 17 campground owners and operators from across the country to advocate for the legislation. The CCPA is a bipartisan bill that would require VISA and Mastercard to offer merchants a choice of at least two unaffiliated processing networks. This move could bring about much-needed competition and transparency to the credit card payments market, which is currently dominated by a handful of powerful companies. According to OHI's Chief Strategy Officer David Basler, swipe fees are one of the largest expenses outdoor hospitality businesses face, with costs rising year after year. The lack of meaningful competition in the market has allowed fees to rise unchecked, resulting in higher prices for consumers. The Credit Card Competition Act is a common-sense fix that brings fairness and real competition back to the market,

Trek Systems, a Denver-based company, has formed a strategic partnership with Victron to provide comprehensive training on power systems for vehicles. According to Trek Systems' president, Caza Gomis, the company works closely with Victron to implement systems that meet user needs in the RV industry and beyond. This partnership demonstrates Victron's commitment to providing high-quality products that require proper implementation. The training programs offered by Trek Systems cover a wide range of Victron components, including batteries, shunt regulators, disconnect switches, and inverter chargers. The training is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to troubleshoot and design power systems for various applications, from RVs to mobile medical units and security trailers. The partnership between Trek Systems and Victron is significant, as it highlights the importance of technical expertise in the RV industry. With the increasing demand for reliable and efficient power systems, this collaboration will undoubtedly benefit professionals in the field. Trek Systems offers quarterly hands-on training events that bring together professionals from various backgrounds, including RV technicians, food truck builders, and municipalities. These events are designed to familiarize attendees with Victron systems and provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the components involved. The training programs are structured to maximize knowledge retention, with a focus on assembling, troubleshooting, and designing power systems. Attendees receive hands-on experience with Victron components, including batteries, solar chargers, and inverter chargers. According to Caza Gomis, president of Trek Systems, the training is designed to provide attendees with an understanding of the components that they'll find in a system, as well as the ability to troubleshoot existing systems. This expertise will enable professionals to design systems that meet customer needs and expectations. The partnership between Trek Systems and Victron demonstrates the importance of technical collaboration in the RV industry. By working together, these companies can provide comprehensive training programs that equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to implement high-quality power systems.

National Go RVing Day is just around the corner, set to take place this Saturday, June 13. The event has become a significant milestone in the RV industry's calendar, marking an opportunity for manufacturers, dealerships, and enthusiasts to come together and promote the joys of RV travel. As the RV Industry Association notes, the next 48 hours will be crucial in creating a nationwide wave of excitement around this type of adventure. By uniting their efforts, the industry can amplify awareness of RV travel far beyond what any single company could achieve alone. The RV industry is facing a unique challenge, with consumers making last-minute weekend plans. In response, manufacturers and dealerships are being encouraged to participate in National Go RVing Day by using specific marketing materials and promoting their businesses on social media. This coordinated effort will not only drive sales but also help to increase awareness of the benefits of RV travel. Social media platforms Instagram and Facebook will play a key role in promoting National Go RVing Day, with users encouraged to share their own RV-related experiences and adventures using specific graphics and sample copy provided by the RV Industry Association. This grassroots approach will help to create a sense of community among RV enthusiasts and drive interest in the event. Email marketing campaigns are also being used to encourage customers to book last-minute RV getaways at local campgrounds or visit dealerships. By sending reminders and promotions, businesses can capitalize on the momentum generated by National Go RVing Day and attract new customers. Campgrounds and dealerships are being encouraged to run flash promotions, distribute RV-2-50 Travel Passports, host customer appreciation events, and share trip-planning advice to create a reason for visitors to come. By doing so, they can tap into the excitement generated by National Go RVing Day and drive sales. The RV Industry Association is urging everyone involved in the industry to participate in National Go RVing Day, emphasizing that every post, email, customer conversation, and local activation helps to create a groundswell of enthusiasm. By working together, the industry can make this event bigger and more successful each year. As the event approaches, it's clear that National Go RVing Day is about more than just promoting RV travel – it's also about building a sense of community among enthusiasts. By sharing their own experiences and adventures on social media, users can connect with others who share similar interests and passions. The success of National Go RVing Day will depend on the industry's ability to come together and promote this type of adventure. By using coordinated marketing efforts and encouraging customers to participate, businesses can capitalize on the momentum generated by this event and drive sales. As the countdown begins, it's clear that National Go RVing Day is set to be a major success. With its focus on promoting RV travel and building a sense of community among enthusiasts, this event has the potential to make a real impact on the industry and beyond. By participating in National Go RVing Day, manufacturers, dealerships, and enthusiasts can help to create a nationwide wave of excitement around RV travel. Whether through social media, email marketing, or local promotions, everyone involved in the industry has a role to play in making this event a success.