Cover Story
Full Stream Ahead

Nope, it’s not a misprint. It’s full stream ahead, like in Gulf Stream. Celebrating twenty years in the RV business, the company is enjoying renewed growth and respectability usually left to the larger, publicly-owned companies in our industry. As they embark on the next twenty, a few things have changed. They used to go out looking for dealers. Now the dealers are looking for Gulf Stream. See how this privately-held manufacturer has changed their products and their image in the RV industry. 

Salesmanship
Selling the trade press in Louisville

Instead of waiting until we leave Louisville and then report on the lack of PR or marketing activity geared toward the trade press, I thought it might be different to provide you with some insight on what we need, and what we can do for you. Each year we find many companies in Louisville who have no PR presence, no media kits in the press room, and no designated contact person for those of us who cover the show. Let’s change all that this year, just let us know who you are and we’ll do the rest.

It happened again today! Another phone call from another consultant, searching for the answer that people just love to ask about the RV industry’s dynamic growth and popularity: How long can it last? The call might be from a consumer publication reporter, a national newspaper or television newsroom, or a consultant who wants to be the first one to proclaim that the bubble has burst. Why do they think the momentum can not sustain itself for many years to come? Let’s stop asking: How long can it last? Let’s start asking: What else can we do to make sure it lasts forever? 

RV Industry Heritage
Arthur G. Sherman
“Father of the RV Industry"

In 1928 Sherman set out to design and build a camping trailer that did not have to be set up upon arrival at the campsite. In the fall of 1929 he introduced his units at the Detroit Auto Show and the Covered Wagon Company was born.

Manufacturing excellence is alive and well in America, and specifically in Bristol, Indiana. One could argue that the most explosive and prosperous time for all Americans was during the Industrial Revolution. This country was built on the creative genius of many, and the sweat equity and hard work associated with building a world-class manufacturing economy. Here’s an American company that is proving that if you build quality products and offer value-added services to your customers, they won’t go looking overseas for cheap imitations.