Effect of Attacks Varies in Motorhome Industry

Motorhome manufacturers have had varied results since the September terrorist attacks.
Despite the economic effects of the attacks, Spartan Motors Inc. continued its trend of
improved performance, posting sharply higher earnings and increased sales for the quarter
ended September 30, with third-quarter sales of motorhome chassis up 13.4 percent. Spartan
said its gains in sales of motorhome chassis outpaced growth in the national RV industry.
Diesel-pusher motorhomes, which continue to gain market share, now account for 42 percent
of its Class A sales. Spartan Motors also has begun shipping its custom diesel chassis for
several new OEM products, including National RV’s Marlin. John Sztykiel, president and
chief operating officer of Spartan Motors said, “Sales of Class A diesel-pusher motorhomes
remain more recession-resistant than other segments of the RV market.” A slowing economy
may also provide potential buyers with incentives and lower prices.