Winnebago President and CEO Mike Happe provided a review of the manufacturer’s Elkhart Extravaganza experience while discussing financial results.
Happe said each Winnebago business—Newmar, Grand Design, Winnebago motorized and Winnebago towables—increased orders from 2022’s Elkhart Extravaganza week.
“We were really pleased coming out of Open House 2023,” Happe said, “in spite of a very tepid dealer ordering environment to see that increase.”
He said Winnebago’s Ekko built on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis drew a “nice amount” of orders during the week. Winnebago’s towable RVs are adding to their order backlog. Happe said additional orders will be based on dealers’ retail sales pacing.
“We like our inventory position in the field at this time, meaning that we do not believe it is excessive or old,” he said. “Our sales personnel are working with the dealers to have them take product as they are comfortable.”
Happe said manufacturing rates will increase this year based on the manufacturer’s short-term backlog.
Happe praised August retail registration results, saying Grand Design, Newmar and Winnebago’s towables gained market share during the month. He said destocking should be “lightly incremental” going forward.
Another topic discussed is Grand Design’s first exclusive brand store, launched in conjunction with Camping World.
Happe said the company is discussing other markets in which to expand exclusive brand stores. However, he said Winnebago would be very selective in its Camping World discussions.
“We have done business with Camping World through the Winnebago brand for many years. … We continue to do business on the Winnebago side in dozens of different locations and have a healthy relationship with Camping World.”
He said any expansion with dealers includes conversations to be comfortable with the dealer’s service and consumer experience proficiency.
“That conversation is definitely a part of any Grand Design expansion discussions with any of their retailers,” he said, “including Camping World.”
