RV consumer shows across the United States are seeing jumps in
attendance compared with last year’s shows. Officials say show attendees
are more upbeat, and many are serious first-time buyers choosing RVs
for vacations this summer. Improving consumer confidence and
low-interest rates are luring more consumers to RV shows. Additionally,
families are seeking greater flexibility and control — and increasingly
turning to domestic road travel — in the post-September 11 travel
climate.
Record attendance was reported at January RV retail shows in
Tacoma, Washington (up 20 percent over last year); Marlborough,
Massachusetts (up 50 percent); Greensboro, North Carolina (up 18
percent); Denver, Colorado (up 30 percent); and Tampa, Florida (up 6
percent). In addition, the mammoth annual RV retail show in Quartzsite,
Arizona, in January, drew an estimated record crowd of nearly 200,000 in
January, according to show officials there.
Higher attendance was also seen at January RV retail shows in
Houma, Louisiana; Indianapolis, Indiana; Boston, Massachusetts; and Fort
Worth, Texas.
“Today’s travel climate is helping drive attendance up at local RV
shows, translating into stronger sales,” explained RV travel expert
David Humphreys, president of Recreation Vehicle Industry Association
(RVIA).
Another enticement for buyers is “RV travel’s affordability,
especially in today’s economy,” Humphreys added. A family of four can
spend up to 70 percent less when traveling by RV, according to a
vacation-cost comparison study by PKF Consulting.
Exhibitors say the larger turnouts are translating into booming sales.
