Winnebago reported positive trends in its retail sales data for October, November and the first half of December. Company President and CEO Mike Happe said the results are a very positive sign.
Statistical Surveys Inc. reported retail sales in October 2024 were greater than October 2023 retail sales. Happe said the change was the first time in about 40 months that retail sales were up year-over-year.
The manufacturer’s internal RV retail data showed year-over-year retail gains continuing throughout November and in the first two weeks of December.
Happe said, “There is a chance that 2025 could have a nice upward trend from where 2024 has been.”
The news came as Winnebago reported 2025 fiscal first quarter financial results, showing a $5.2 million loss.
In the quarter, the company’s revenue was $625.6 million, an 18% decrease from 2024’s fiscal first quarter. Towable revenues totaled $254 million, down 23% from 2024’s fiscal first quarter. Motorhome net revenue was $272 million, down 18% from 2024’s fiscal first quarter.
During 2024, Happe said the company battled competitive marketplace discounts and increased warranty expenses.
He said, “We saw very fierce market sales discounts in quarter one from competition that, at times, our team felt that we had to match to sustain some presence of share in the market.”
Warranty expenses stemmed from quality issues the company addressed.
As consumers continue to buy affordable towable RVs, Happe said Winnebago is adjusting its 2025 models. Winnebago is not decontenting, he said, or taking an RV and deleting features in a meaningful way. Happe said Winnebago is asking its leadership team to redefine value within the RVs and ensure value is not cut.
When the company subtracts features from RVs, Happe said the product development team finds ways to add value. Rather than focusing on outdoor aspects such as entertainment, kitchens, lighting and porches, Winnebago is prioritizing comfortable interiors.
The new year also brings new regulations. Winnebago has prepared for the new California Resources Board (CARB) Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation But Happe said the company seeks further clarity on managing compliance.
He said the manufacturer is working with chassis and engine suppliers to navigate the rules. Winnebago’s staff is trying to mitigate negative regulation effects within the next 12 months and brainstorming solutions for the Grand Design Super C motorhome to comply with the requirements.
