Your Guide to RV Dealership Sustainability to Increase Valuations 14 Apr 2025, 5:31 pm

As climate change concerns continue to rise, and so do the number of eco-conscious consumers in the market…so should your attention to RV dealership sustainability. That means if you’re an RV dealership owner, it shouldn’t just be Earth Day every April, but every day for added valuation. 

In today’s modern world, you can make simple green upgrades that can add green to the value of your dealership. Whether you want to sell shortly or down the road, sustainability isn’t going out of style anytime soon. Even better? Eco-conscious choices can improve your brand’s value and reputation and save on energy costs. 

That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to changes you can make today to add value to your sale in the future. To honor our Earth and protect its environment, keep reading to learn the latest RV dealership sustainability changes you can make at yours.  

6 Strategies to Increase Your RV Dealership Sustainability 

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword or something to celebrate once a year — it’s a business strategy that resonates with today’s RV buyers and can improve your bottom line. From attracting more eco-conscious customers to reducing operating costs or enhancing the value of your dealership for a future sale, implementing small green upgrades can make a big difference. 

To help, here are six practical ways to implement RV dealership sustainability practices, for a more environmentally friendly and valuable future. 

#1 Invest in lighting 

Investing in its lighting is one way to cut costs today (and even get rebates with certain programs!) and add value to your dealership tomorrow. Switching from standard fluorescent and halogen bulbs to energy-efficient LED bulbs is one of the most cost-effective and simplest upgrades you can make for RV dealership sustainability. 

These bulbs use less energy, last much longer, and emit better, more natural light. Even better, they produce less heat, which reduces cooling costs during the summer months. This easy upgrade will not only lower your utility bills but also make a visible statement to customers and staff that your dealership is committed to sustainability and forward-thinking business practices.

This investment impresses buyers at sale and takes the work off their plate when making the switch in the future. 

#2 Consider solar 

Another immediate investment that can do wonders for your utility bills and increase dealership valuation is installing rooftop solar panels. Whether on your dealership’s service building or showroom, solar panels are a method to reduce energy costs in the long term and improve your environmental impact. 

While there is an initial investment to consider, you’ll also want to explore the tax incentives, local rebates, and long-term savings that will offset the cost. Solar panels also serve as a backup power source during outages and can even power EV charging stations (we’ll get to that next!). 

Lastly – it’s a visible commitment to eco-friendly consumers. As interest in off-grid and electric RV travel grows, your energy-conscious infrastructure can set you apart from the competition.

#3 Offer EV charging 

Another trend that’s not going anywhere anytime soon is electric vehicles, including RVs and tow vehicles. This creates a demand for EV charging stations and allows your dealership to lead the charge as a forward-thinking business in the industry and area. 

Adding electric charging stations to your dealership makes your location more convenient for current EV owners and shows potential customers that you’re embracing the future of RV travel. For our number-crunching owners, Level 2 chargers are affordable, especially when paired with solar, and can encourage customers to spend more time—and money—on-site while they charge. 

EV infrastructure also adds value for prospective buyers if you plan to sell your business, positioning your dealership as a modern, green operation.

#4 Green your greenscapes 

Another way to enhance your curb appeal (and value!), along with your dealership’s sustainable initiatives, is to “green” your greenscapes or landscaping. By hiring a landscaper well-versed in sustainability, you can reduce water use, maintenance cost, and environmental impact with simple changes such as: 

• Installing native plants that require less watering being naturally suited for your climate
• Using compost mulch and rain gardens helps with stormwater management and erosion control
• Installing recycled or repurposed materials for outdoor features or walkways 

With a few simple changes, your outdoor space will not only be cleaner but also reflect your commitment to eco-friendly practices—something many modern RV buyers truly value.

#5 Eco-friendly your parts 

Don’t neglect your retail opportunities when making your dealership more eco-friendly. Promote sustainable choices by stocking more environmentally conscious options such as: 

• Biodegradable soaps
• Solar-powered gear
• Reusable kitchenware
• Non-toxic RV cleaners 

By offering customers sustainable products for their adventure, you show your commitment to the greater cause. Create ongoing revenue by packaging your own “green” RV kits and featuring eco-friendly items in displays or email promotions. In the end, you’ll not only cater products to a growing number of RVers seeking to reduce their environmental footprint but also show future buyers that your dealership is innovative and versatile for growth. 

#6 Smart recycling practices 

Last but certainly not least, a smart recycling practice or program is a smart investment for future dealership valuations. In addition to helping your operation significantly cut down on dealership waste while showing your team and customers you care about the planet. 

Your program can be as simple as clearly identifying bins for cardboard, paper, plastic, and used materials like oil, filters, and propane tanks throughout your facility, to hosting community return day events, or beyond. 

Recycling programs don’t require major investments but offer significant returns in customer perception, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability – three factors that weigh heavily on valuation. 

RV Dealership Sustainability: The Final Word 

It’s not just April when RV dealerships should prioritize sustainability. It’s a year-round commitment that can help drive dealership valuations. With a dealership advisor by your side, it can be a smooth, seamless task to build out these plans over a set period to add sustainability to your brand and value to your future sale. 

With years of experience in dealership buy-sell transactions and industry expertise, RVBS can help strategize sustainability plans for the utmost short-term and long-term success. No matter the market or business size, RVBS helps owners maximize their valuation and seamlessly navigate the selling or buying process. To start, reach out to our expert team now and begin discussing your dealership’s future.

Happy Earth Day from our team at RVBS. We look forward to partnering on RV sustainability initiatives in the future. 

The post Your Guide to RV Dealership Sustainability to Increase Valuations appeared first on RVBS.

Selling Your RV Dealership: Are You a Bob or a Frank? 1 Apr 2025, 9:02 pm

Bob and Frank had a lot in common. Both had spent years building their RV dealerships from the ground up. They each owned their facility, carried strong product lines, and had about the same number of service bays. Even their annual revenue was nearly identical. On paper, their businesses were mirror images. But when it came time to sell, their experiences couldn’t have been more different.

Bob, a hands-on, no-nonsense kind of guy, figured he could handle the sale himself. “How hard can it be?” he said, sipping his coffee. “Find a buyer, shake hands, and call it a day.”

Frank, on the other hand, knew selling an RV dealership wasn’t as simple as offloading an old motorhome. It was a complex process with legal hurdles, financial nuances, and operational challenges. Rather than dive in blind, he brought in an M&A advisor who specialized in dealership sales.

Bob’s Solo Adventure: A Comedy of Errors

Bob started by calling his RV dealer buddies, assuming one of them would jump at the opportunity. Instead, he was met with lukewarm interest, tire-kickers, and one guy who wanted to trade a vintage Airstream and a boat for the whole operation.

Determined to make it work, Bob listed his dealership online, took calls at all hours, and haphazardly pieced together contracts from the internet. Meanwhile, his business started slipping. Customers noticed he was distracted, sales dropped, and his top technician quit—worried about the uncertainty.

Then came a seemingly serious buyer. Negotiations were brutal. Bob was blindsided by endless due diligence requests, haggling over price, and a bizarre last-minute demand to include his personal vehicles in the deal. He spent nights drowning in legal jargon, consulting online forums, and scrambling to resolve unexpected financing issues. The longer the process dragged on, the more stress he endured and the more money he lost. His once-thriving business was now a tangled mess of confusion, frustration, and missed opportunities.

Every time he thought he was close to closing, another issue surfaced—bank delays, buyer cold feet, or paperwork that had to be redone. Bob was exhausted, his business had suffered, and he realized too late that selling a dealership was nothing like selling an RV off the lot.

Frank’s Expert Approach: Smooth Sailing

Frank, on the other hand, let his advisor handle the heavy lifting. The advisor properly valued his dealership, identified serious buyers, and managed negotiations. Frank didn’t have to waste time fielding ridiculous offers or debating whether he should throw in a free motorhome to sweeten the deal.

Instead, he kept running his dealership as usual, keeping revenue steady and even increasing its value in the process. His staff remained confident, his customers received the same great service, and the business maintained its strong reputation.

When the right buyer came along, everything was structured smoothly—contracts, legal terms, and financing were all in place. Frank walked away with a deal that exceeded his expectations, all while keeping his business and sanity intact. His advisor also helped ensure the transition was seamless, so Frank could enjoy his well-earned exit without worrying about lingering issues.

The new buyer was the right fit for the business, and employees felt secure about their future. Unlike Bob, who was stuck scrambling until the last minute, Frank had time to enjoy the process—maybe even celebrate a little before the ink dried. He left on his terms, with more money in his pocket and zero regrets.

The Moral of the Story

Selling an RV dealership isn’t as simple as selling an RV. It’s a complex, high-stakes process that can either go smoothly or turn into a nightmare. Bob learned the hard way that going it alone cost him time, money, and peace of mind. Frank, on the other hand, walked away with a great deal, minimal stress, and no regrets.

So, if you’re thinking of selling, ask yourself: Do you want to be a Bob or a Frank?

The post Selling Your RV Dealership: Are You a Bob or a Frank? appeared first on RVBS.

Dealership Valuation: How Digital Marketing & Customer Experience Can Help 24 Mar 2025, 7:30 pm

In the world of evolving technology and AI-powered everything, it should be no shock that RV dealership values are shifting with the trends. Today, more than ever before, intangible assets such as customer experience or digital marketing efforts are affecting dealership valuations. Causing RV dealers across the US are realigning and strategizing for future dealership buy-sell transactions. 

If you’re an RV dealership owner, in the position of selling your business, or a buyer looking to buy a business with added value, this is the guide for you. Here, we’ll cover all the latest digital marketing and customer experience trends affecting RV dealership values. From why it matters to simple strategies to implement, we’ll dive deep into driving profitability online. 

Keep reading for a dealership advisor’s take on how digital marketing and customer experience can boost your dealership’s valuation. 

The Evolving Dealership Valuation Landscape

Historically, RV dealership values focused primarily on financial performance and tangible assets. However, as the digital and online world expands, so does its effect on RV dealership valuations. In today’s landscape, buyers are increasingly interested in a dealership’s digital footprint and customer satisfaction metrics. This shows an overall shift to valuing the direct correlation to sustainable profitability and growth potential.

How Digital Marketing & Customer Experience Impact Dealership Valuation

Buyers are more savvy than ever and look beyond traditional valuation metrics, like inventory levels, real estate, or financial performance. They’re increasingly examining a dealership’s digital marketing capabilities and customer experience reputation as growth potential and future performance indicators. 

These modern value drivers reflect a dealership’s ability to acquire new customers efficiently and build meaningful, long-lasting relationships to generate sustainable revenue streams. So, before we discuss the strategies we recommend implementing, let’s better understand how these factors impact worth and influence valuation. 

How Digital Marketing Impacts Value 

Bolstering our dealership’s digital marketing presence helps demonstrate it’s ability to: 

• Build a recognizable brand
• Generate consistent leads with lower acquisition costs
• Seamlessly adapt to changing consumer shopping preferences
• Decrease dependency on third-party lead providers

All in all, digital marketing leads straight to revenue, which is a highly desirable trait for future buyers and sellers looking to maximize value. 

How Customer Experience Impacts Value

On the flip side, investing in the customer experience also impacts value as it translates to: 

• Improved customer loyalty and retention = repeat business. 
• Higher CSI scores, which manufacturers increasingly tied to incentives
• Stronger referral networks and positive word-of-mouth
• Better online reputation and reviews
• Reduced marketing costs through customer loyalty

Because customers are the primary source for generating revenue, they, too, are highly valued in the evolving landscape of dealership valuations. 

Top 5 Strategies to Consider Implementing for Improved Valuations

As an RV dealership owner, you’re an expert in your field, not digital marketing or customer experience. To help, we’ve compiled the latest trends across the digital marketing and customer experience sectors that can be easily implemented to increase RV dealership values. 

1. Develop a Digital Marketing Infrastructure

Investing in a digital marketing partner or digital marketing stack will improve your online presence and lead generation exponentially. These stacks typically include:

• An optimized website, that’s routinely updates
• An SEO strategy
• Paid search campaigns
• Social media presence and paid campaigns

To ensure you’re getting value, document processes, performance metrics, and ROI, especially to demonstrate the value of these assets to future potential buyers. 

2. Improve Customer Data Management

A sophisticated CRM system tracks the complete customer journey and proves to buyers that a process is in place to nurture crucial relationships for repeat revenue. Many systems also incorporate service modules demonstrating retention in additional streams and upsell opportunities. Together, these are valuable assets in the current state of acquisition discussions. 

3. Implement Reputation Management 

Of course, it’s not just relationships you need to nurture and maintain, but reputation as well. Strong reputation management systems show buyers you have processes that ensure positive reinforcement for online searches and traffic. To do so, start by streamlining the acts of soliciting, monitoring, and responding to customer reviews across various platforms.

4. Create a Seamless Omnichannel Experience

Let’s face it. Much of the retail experience will continue to involve both online and in-store experiences. In today’s day and age, many customer journeys begin online and complete the sale in-store, so creating a seamless transition is crucial. This, again, ensures smooth revenue generation for the buyers and impresses consumers with forward-thinking and adaptable service. 

5. Invest in Training and Culture Development

Last but not least, in sales, your people or team often seal the deal and win the repeat buy. So, increasingly, between online support and in-person touch, RV dealerships are investing in training that develops the culture that the consumer desires. A documented, replicable culture of excellent customer care represents a transferable asset that increases dealership value.

The Final Word: Dealership Advisors for Valuation Support 

As you’ve learned today, the factors affecting valuation are ever-evolving. So, if you’re considering a dealership buy-sell transaction in the near future, it’s never too early to begin working with a dealership advisor. Implementing these strategies is just the start – dealership advisors help you navigate the current market and maximize valuation across departments. 

With years of experience in dealership buy-sell transactions, RVBS helps owners maximize their valuation and seamlessly navigate the selling or buying process. To start, reach out to our expert team now and begin discussing your dealership’s future. 

Before you go, keep learning more about the current state of the RV dealership buy-sell space, with RVBS’ dealership news. Check out our complete collection of resources here, and while you’re there be sure to sign up for the RVBS newsletter to stay up to day with all the latest. 

The post Dealership Valuation: How Digital Marketing & Customer Experience Can Help appeared first on RVBS.

The Top Dealer Inventory Management Strategies to Boost Dealership Valuation 14 Mar 2025, 1:10 pm

If you’ve been following our most recent series of articles, you’ve heard the importance of dealer inventory management. Not only can improving your dealer management system provider help current operations and sales, but it can also increase dealership valuation when you go to sale.

That’s why here, in our next guide, we’ll be diving deep into actually how to improve your inventory management systems with the top strategies that boost value in today’s market. So, keep reading to learn about the five best practices for improving this crucial area of operations.

The Top 5 Dealer Inventory Management Strategies That Boost Dealership Valuation 

When it comes to RV dealership values, it’s not always about the next best trend. It’s about timeless strategies that are proven to boost overall success at sale. Whether you’re thinking of engaging in a dealership buy-sell transaction soon or down the road, here are the five best practices for dealer inventory management strategies that’ll boost your dealership valuation overall.

1. Data-Driven Selection

In today’s world of algorithms and user information capture, we’ve never known more about the consumer and what they’re searching for purchase-wise. Using these innovative analytics to guide your inventory selection will turn guessing the new trends into strategic decision-making for inventory. 

Dealerships can better forecast which RV models, boat types, or powersport vehicles will move quickly in their specific market based on gathering information on: 

• Seasonal trends
• Regional preferences
• Historical sales data 
• Google search trends 

Dealers who adopt predictive analytics tools will have the information to identify emerging trends before competitors, allowing them to stock the right mix of in-demand units. Overall, this proactive approach significantly reduces flooring costs while maximizing inventory turnover. – two driving factors of valuation at sale.

Beyond the operational benefits, the financial impact is substantial: reduced carrying costs, decreased depreciation losses, and improved cash flow. Lenders and potential buyers view data-driven inventory practices as evidence of sophisticated management and reduced risk. 

2. Strategic Off-Season

Using your off-season strategically is another desirable trait to future purchasers at sale. An automated or implemented process of strategically acquiring inventory during off-peak seasons represents a powerful valuation-building approach, especially for specialty vehicle dealerships.

Rather than following the industry’s typical buying cycles, forward-thinking dealers secure inventory when competitors aren’t buying—obtaining better wholesale prices, preferred allocation of limited production models, and favorable financing terms. This counter-cyclical purchasing strategy allows dealerships to maintain healthy margins when selling during peak seasons. 

For example, acquiring boats in fall/winter for spring/summer sales can yield 10-15% higher margins. While this strategy does require sufficient capital and storage capacity, it demonstrates to potential buyers that management understands market cycles and can execute sophisticated inventory strategies. 

As for dealership valuation, experts particularly favor dealerships that consistently apply this approach across multiple seasons, as it indicates disciplined operations and strategic foresight rather than reactive inventory management.

3. Dynamic Pricing

As for pricing as a part of dealer inventory management, dynamic models can dramatically enhance a dealership valuation by optimizing pricing based on real-time market conditions, inventory age, and demand fluctuations. Unlike static pricing approaches, this strategy involves sophisticated software that adjusts pricing daily or weekly based on multiple factors—

• Competitor pricing
• Days in inventory
• Seasonal demand shifts
• Even weather patterns (particularly important for recreational vehicles).

These advanced systems will automatically identify units that could benefit from price adjustments to prevent aging inventory while also maintaining optimal margins on in-demand models. Dealerships that implement this type of pricing are shown to achieve higher gross profits while significantly reducing average inventory days. 

From a valuation perspective, this dealer inventory management strategy demonstrates sophisticated operational practices and creates more predictable cash flows. Potential buyers value the reduced risk profile and technological sophistication, typically assigning premium multiples to dealerships with established dynamic pricing systems integrated with their inventory management processes.

4. Balancing New-Used 

Another balance to achieve to boost your dealership’s valuation is maintaining a balance between new and pre-owned inventory. This strategy increases your dealership’s value by creating complementary revenue streams that buffer market volatility. I.e., your dealership can better withstand fluctuations in recreational consumer spending. 

The ideal mix—typically 60% new and 40% pre-owned for most recreational vehicle sectors—allows dealerships to capture different customer segments while hedging against manufacturing disruptions or economic downturns. It’s important to know that, in general, pre-owned inventory provides higher margins and faster turns, while new inventory drives service revenue and manufacturer incentives. 

The most sophisticated dealerships often use the trade-in pipeline to source premium pre-owned units cost-effectively. Of course, while doing so, they maintain rigorous maintenance checks and reconditioning standards that maintain brand reputation while still controlling costs. 

This balanced approach demonstrates to potential buyers that the dealership isn’t overly dependent on manufacturer allocations or vulnerable to new inventory financing challenges. Valuation experts typically assign premium multiples to dealerships, maintaining consistent new-used ratios that maximize overall return on investment while minimizing floor plan expenses and obsolescence risk.

5. Inventory + F&I

Lastly, integrating your inventory with finance and insurance offerings can also boost your RV dealership valuation beyond traditional floor planning approaches. This integration involves tailoring F&I products specifically to inventory aging profiles—offering more aggressive financing or enhanced warranty packages on aging units while maintaining premium F&I offerings on fast-turning inventory. 

The dynamic systems typically use inventory age thresholds to trigger specific F&I promotion packages, creating a systematic approach to moving slower inventory without resorting to margin-eroding discounts. 

As for valuation, this strategy represents an advanced operational integration that supports streamlined revenue from the same inventory investment.  Potential dealership buyers also value this strategy because it shows management’s ability to extract maximum value from inventory assets while maintaining strong gross margins across departments.

Finding a Dealership Advisor to Plan for Future Sale

In today’s world of heightened mergers and acquisitions and cutthroat competition, it’s never too early to begin working with a dealership advisor to plot and plant your next move. Whether that be exploring the current dealership buy-sell market or improving operations for future sale, the industry-leading dealership advisors at RVBS are equipped and experienced, to support.  

Learn more about our team’s recent transactions, or are you looking to buy? Check out our available listings, and contact our team to begin the process. With over 60 combined years in the RV industry, there’s no better dealership advisor group to work with for the utmost success in purchasing or selling than RVBS. 

The post The Top Dealer Inventory Management Strategies to Boost Dealership Valuation appeared first on RVBS.

M&A Trends: What’s Driving RV Dealership Values In Today’s Market 26 Feb 2025, 4:32 pm

With every year in the RV dealership industry comes evolving trends for buying and selling. In 2025, the landscape continues its transformation and regrowth, still stabilizing from the unprecedented surge in outdoor recreation in 2020. A phase that sparked a fundamental shift in consumer behavior and dealership operations is now returning to pre-pandemic levels. 

Having said that, several key factors, which differ from the past, are shaping today’s valuations. From management to technology, geographic market dynamics, and beyond, knowing what will drive the value of your dealership should be a compass for your coming year’s strategic planning. 

In this guide, we’ll provide all the dealership news you need to know about RV dealership values in today’s market. So, keep reading as we analyze the current market, helping you well-position your dealership with strong fundamentals and emerging trends. 

A Look At The Current Market 

In 2024, if there was anything consistent across the RV dealership industry, it was its ever-evolving nature. Compared to past year’s headlines of major players buying up smaller dealerships, the last year saw a cooling down of that aggression. In fact, many smaller and midsized dealerships expanded and flourished, rather than succumbing to M&A’s. 

Overall, dealerships are still reeling and recovering from the post-pandemic era, and an aging inventory leads to unpredictability across the board. However, one new trend to note are smaller, more regional acquisitions that are somewhat flying under the radar from national consolidation news. 

As small to midsized companies merge, they mutually strengthen local market presence, which leads industry experts to believe the trend of smaller, unpublicized transactions could continue.

What’s Driving Acquisitions Today 

With that said there are still a few core or fundamental factors that remain steady in driving dealership values and acquisition talks. These being: 

• Premium product lines
• Robust service departments
• Expansive facilities 

But even more so, the customer and human element is becoming increasingly critical. Strong leadership teams have become crucial in dealership valuations, prompting owners to invest heavily in talent development and retention. Buyers recognize that an experienced management team committed to staying after the sale smooths the transition and often commands premium purchase prices.

Valuation Trends in 2025 

In light of the most recent trends of less headline-worthy mergers and acquisitions and smaller regional transactions, here are the top key valuation drivers to continue considering and investing in. 

Financial Performance 

In 2025, valuations will continue to be influenced by the diversity and strength of revenue streams it offers. More so than ever, buyers are placing an increased emphasis on the parts and service revenue as a stabilizing factor. This is driving trends of annual maintenance packages and a higher emphasis on driving service foot traffic. 

Working capital efficiency, particularly in inventory management, also remains a crucial valuation factor as floor plan costs impact bottom-line performance. Even more the most attractive dealerships are maintaining inventory turns above industry averages, while maintaining healthy margins through strategic purchasing and pricing strategies. 

While demonstrated profitability trends will never go out of style, the factors above will continue to serve as key determinants in future valuation multiples.

Operational Considerations

Even though the human element is becoming increasingly important with a struggle to find valuable staff becomes more heightened, physical assets and operational capabilities will also continue to drive value. In fact, these factors are often the key differentiators between one dealership and another. 

Premium locations with modern, well-maintained facilities and room for expansion command higher multiples, particularly when situated in high-traffic areas or growing markets. Protected territory rights paired with strong manufacturer relationships will also remain crucial valuation factors, with multi-brand dealers often seeing higher valuations due to diversified revenue potential. 

Lastly, don’t count out technology. Dealerships with sophisticated digital infrastructure, including robust online sales platforms and integrated customer management systems, are attracting premium valuations as buyers recognize the growing importance of omnichannel retail capabilities.

Transaction Structure Trends 

As for transaction structure trends, so far in 2025, they’re reflecting a more nuanced approach to risk allocation between sellers and buyers. Even though all-cash transactions still remain attractive, earnout provisions are growing in popularity. This sophisticated approach is often tied to specific performance metrics beyond traditional EBITDA targets. 

Seller financing is another continuing trend, especially amongst mid-market transactions, seeing most arrangements covering 10-20% of the purchase price. Another thing to evolve are real estate considerations, where buyers are preferring separate real estate entities to maintain flexibility in facility management and future expansion. 

Buyer Landscape 

Last but certainly not least, let’s take a look at the buyer landscape trends. As usual, the buyer pool for RV dealerships remains competitive and highly diverse, although insiders are seeing an evolution in priorities. For instance, there’s a heightened focus on digital infrastructure and the human management element we mentioned earlier. 

Large strategic consolidators continue their selective expansion, focusing on premium locations and established multi-store operations that complement their existing footprints. Like many industries, private equity firms continue to maintain strong interest in the sector, too. Private equity firms are particularly interested in corporate-like entities that operate with advanced management teams, robust technology, and clear growth potential and strategies. 

Family offices or groups have emerged as increasingly active buyers in the RV dealership market, drawn to the industry’s combination of stable cash flows, tangible assets, and long-term growth potential. Finally, regional expansion patterns show particular strength in the Southeast and Mountain West regions, where buyers are actively seeking to carve out their portion of increased interest and sales. 

The Final Word: Looking Ahead for Dealership Valuations 

In a nearly unpredictable market, and as the RV dealership landscape continues to evolve, expert guidance has never been more critical for maximizing value—for both buyers and sellers. While mergers and acquisitions could vary this year, in comparison to previous years, it’s wise to prepare for a sale years before it happens. 

So whether you’re looking to expand your portfolio through strategic acquisitions of your own, selling your dealership, or simply exploring the options available in today’s market, there’s no better partner than RVBS. 

RVBS’s dedicated team of dealership advisors brings decades of industry expertise to guide you through the process. Our deep understanding of current market dynamics, extensive network of qualified buyers and sellers, and proven track record of successful transactions positions us to help you achieve your strategic objectives. 

Contact RVBS today to confidentially discuss your dealership’s future and explore the opportunities ahead.

The post M&A Trends: What’s Driving RV Dealership Values In Today’s Market appeared first on RVBS.

Dealership Buy Sell: Your Guide to Strategic Timing 20 Feb 2025, 4:03 pm

The decision to sell an RV dealership signifies the culmination of years and decades of building your business. Similarly, the process of selling your dealership takes time, too. Especially considering timing the sale right can significantly impact both the sale value and the smoothness of the transition. 

So, if you’re considering an upcoming sale or know a sale will soon be on the horizon, understanding the key factors that influence optimal timing is crucial. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide. Keep reading as we cover all the considerations to keep in mind when thinking about your future dealership buy-sell transaction. 

The Top Factors to Consider for Selling Your RV Dealership 

There are several factors that, when aligned, are the absolute right time for you to sell your RV dealership. Here are the top factors to keep in mind when considering a sale of yours. 

Market Conditions

Like any industry, the RV industry operates in distinct cycles but is usually aligned with broader economic trends. For instance, rising disposable income and consumer confidence typically drive increased RV sales during economic growth as households feel more comfortable making large discretionary purchases. 

Currently, the market is showing strong consolidation activity with an increase in mergers and acquisitions from private equity groups and large dealership networks across the market. The most successful timing to sell your RV dealership will rely on recognizing where the industry is positioned in its cycle. Key indicators to monitor include: 

1. Consumer confidence levels
2. Interest rates
3. Manufacturer production rates 

Regional market conditions will also play a pivotal role, as different geographic areas may experience varying demand levels and economic strength. To monitor conditions here, watch for trends in local discretionary spending, tourism patterns, and demographic shifts that could impact valuation. 

Business Performance Optimization

Another factor that will affect your dealership’s valuation and overall timing is the performance and optimization of your business. Typically, potential buyers will evaluate dealerships on their overall, sustained performance rather than short-term success. Hence, preparing for a sale ahead of time is key for the best timing. 

The ideal selling window typically occurs when the business demonstrates consistent growth in key metrics:

• Stable or increasing revenue growth over 3-5 years
• Strong profit margins compared to industry averages
• Healthy inventory turnover rates
• Robust cash flow patterns

The level of your RV dealership’s operational excellence will also affect the timing and valuation of your sale. So, working on improving areas such as your service department, efficient parts operations, and strong customer satisfaction scores will be worth the wait in value.  

Another thing to consider for the timing of your sale is implementing a digital infrastructure that can increase its value too. Modern management systems and online sales capabilities are highly valued by buyers and can take time to successfully implement. 

Manufacturer Relationships

A lesser-considered area that’ll affect timing and value is the timing of manufacturer contract renewals. Strong relationships with desirable manufacturers clearly increase dealership value overall, so being sure you’ve built or nurtured these as a selling point may take time. The best time to sell, is after securing or renewing key manufacturer relationships but before facility upgrade requirements come due. 

As you know, manufacturers require periodic facility improvements or renovations to maintain brand standards; these can range from minor cosmetic updates to major structural changes costing millions of dollars. Selling before these requirements come due allows the current owner to avoid these capital expenditures while giving the buyer the flexibility to plan and implement upgrades on their own terms and timeline.

Personal and Succession Planning

It’s not just the dealership and the market you’ll need to think about. Personally and professionally, you’ll need to assess your readiness to determine optimal timing for selling. Beyond market conditions, personal readiness often determines optimal timing. Here, key considerations you should think about include: 

• Retirement goals and financial requirements
• Interest of family members to continue business
• Management team preparedness for transition
• Personal energy levels and health considerations
• Alternative business or investment opportunities

All in all, the right time to sell for you is when personal timing aligns with the most favorable market conditions and strong business performance. 

Pre-Sale Preparation

Of course, even when you pinpoint the ideal combination of personal timing, favorable market conditions, and strong performance, you still need to be prepared with the essentials to sell. So, it’s important to know that proper preparation itself typically takes 12–24 months, regardless of market conditions. During this time, your dealership advisor will help you collect: 

• Organization of financial records and tax returns
• Documentation of operating procedures
• Updated customer and vendor databases
• Resolution of any legal or regulatory issues
• Completion of planned facility improvements

While the list might seem daunting to collect, keep in mind that well-prepared dealerships often command premium valuations and experience smoother due diligence processes.

Financial Planning 

Like any big purchase or sale, you’ll also want to consider the tax implications when thinking about the timing of your sale. Like working with a dealership advisor to navigate the sale, you’ll want to work with your financial planner or advisor to help identify optimal transaction structures and timing to maximize after-tax proceeds, considering the impact of: 

• Capital gains tax rates
• Estate tax exemption levels
• Available tax deferral strategies
• Post-sale investment opportunities
• Wealth transfer objectives

The Final Word: Working with a Dealership Advisor 

As you can see, the optimal time to sell your dealership is determined by aligning multiple factors rather than any single condition. While market timing is crucial, personal and business readiness and preparedness are also key. Even harder, you still have to operate and manage your business while considering the above.

Working with an experienced, expert dealership advisor becomes crucial in this situation. RVBS is one of the leading advisory buy-sell groups for RV dealerships and supports owners from beginning to end of the sale process. 

From building sustainable value through operational excellence to monitoring market conditions for advantageous sale windows and even sourcing buyers, RVBS has over 60+ years of combined experience in the industry to use to your dealership’s advantage. Learn more by contacting us directly to begin planning the sale of your RV dealership. 

The post Dealership Buy Sell: Your Guide to Strategic Timing appeared first on RVBS.

Dealership Advisor Tips for Maximizing the Spring Selling Season & Overall Value 13 Feb 2025, 6:19 pm

As the winter season begins to fade, RV dealership owners across the US are gearing up for one of the busiest selling seasons of the year: spring. No matter whether you’re considering the sale of your dealership soon or down the line, maximizing each quarter is crucial to its overall value. 

That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide with dealership advisor tips to enhance your dealership’s worth and market position. So, keep reading for seven areas you can support to capitalize on this spring in sales and increase your dealership’s overall value for an eventual sale. 

7 Essential Steps to Prepare for Spring Selling Season 

Maximizing your RV dealership’s value should be a goal year-round. However, just before your biggest season is a great time to prepare, especially during the slower winter months. So, without further ado, here are the top seven steps to take to maximize your business’ value in light of the spring sales surge. 

Optimize Your Inventory

First things first: optimize the inventory to drive sales and increase your bottom line. Here, analyzing past sales data and reviewing trends from prior spring seasons is a good place to start for the best-selling models to stock. As always, and especially during times of financial stress, it’s ideal to balance new and pre-owned units, to cater to various budgets. 

More innovative ways to optimize your inventory include considering new trade-in strategies to refresh your stock of used models by offering competitive values. On the same note, it’s an ideal time to check in and further secure your manufacturer and supplier relationships. Do so by checking in to confirm deliveries and addressing supply chain concerns that could affect sales early.

Refresh Your Showroom & Lot

Speaking of “refresh,” it’s not just your stock or inventory that could use extra attention this winter before spring. Another way to prepare for a surge of sales and maximize the value of your dealership is to revamp your dealership’s showroom and lot. A little work will go a long way in creating an inviting atmosphere by simply cleaning, staging, and organizing inventory to make the lot more appealing to buyers. 

The simplest ways to enhance visual appeal and increase traffic include: 

• Exterior banners, signs, or promotions. 
• Improving customer navigation, especially in high-traffic areas. 
• Increasing or adjusting lighting. 
• Positioning best-selling RVs front and center. 

Strengthen Your Digital Presence

Of course, we’d be remiss without mentioning how to strengthen your digital presence prior to sale and prior to the spring sales surge. Improving your website can make the difference of going with one dealership over the other, so it’s an investment that often pays off. To start, ensure all the inventory is appropriately listed, with detailed descriptions, pricing, and high-quality images. 

To further your support, consider hiring an SEO or content strategy specialist to help you publish blogs that drive traffic to your site and produce videos or content that attracts buyers. Remember, timing is crucial when leveraging social media and ads to target buyers searching for “where to buy an RV” or similar phrases. 

Lastly, ensure your website is mobile-friendly, as smartphones accounted for over 75% of retail site visits and generated roughly two-thirds of online shopping orders.

Fine-Tune Your Sales & Customer Service Strategy

There’s never a wrong time to review your sales and customer service strategy and fine-tune the details that affect its success. But the first quarter is especially helpful for retraining your sales team, including refreshing their product knowledge, reviewing finance options, and providing education on sales tactics and strategies. 

This could also include reviewing your current CRM and refreshing its ability to track leads, follow-ups, and customer preferences. In addition to working on new sales and incentives to offer new or returning customers, that can be handed off to your new social team for promotions. 

Enhance Service & Maintenance Departments

In light of promotions, don’t forget about your service and maintenance departments to increase your dealership’s value and potential sales. Pre-season maintenance packages effectively get customers through the door by encouraging RV owners to prepare their vehicles for travel. Repeated annually, this can help attract future dealership buyers as a bonus funnel to the service department in addition to sales. 

For now, and future stability and success, consider streamlining the scheduling of service appointments to improve customer loyalty and retention with ease of schedule and quick turnaround times. 

Plan Engaging Events & Community Outreach

The sun is shining, and the landscape is blooming, meaning people are more apt to visit your showroom than in the cold winter months. Use the pep in their step to your advantage and consider using your time this winter to plan an open house or demo day this spring. These events offer live walkthroughs and promote test drives. 

To garner attention and exposure, consider partnering with local clubs or travel influencers to leverage the relationships for a broader audience reach. Another cost-effective way to further your position in the community (driving your value even more!) and potentially gain new customers is by sponsoring local events or entities. 

Review & Strengthen Your Marketing Strategy

Finally, as a part of improving your CRM, you should have a healthy database of past and potential buyers you can tap into. During the winter, plan targeted email campaigns or marketing strategies to reach these groups and inform them of the upcoming deals, promotions, and events you’ve spent your time compiling. 

Now, more than ever, video marketing is crucial for enhancing sales and your RV dealership’s value. Consider adding virtual tours to your sales site or customer testimonials throughout your content strategy. Lastly, use analytics to your advantage by running robust Google Ads or social media campaigns that offer targeted insights into local audiences. 

The Final Word: Maximizing Your RV Dealership’s Value

All in all, making every season the best season in sales and reputation building will go a long way when you decide to sell your dealership. That’s because potential buyers will look beyond just financial statements—they want to see a well-rounded operation with strong systems, loyal customers, and growth potential.

Fortunately, these seven steps will put your dealership on the right path to success. By taking these steps now, you’ll not only improve your dealership’s current operations but also build lasting value that will benefit you whether you choose to sell or continue operating your business. 

Another pro tip? As soon as you begin to consider the eventual sale of your dealership, get in touch with RV advisors you can trust—like the team at RVBS. RVBS is the leading buy-sell advisory group to RV dealers, whether selling or purchasing. Use our decades of combined experience in the industry to your advantage in getting the most value at sale. 

Get in touch with the RVBS team now to explore the potential value of your dealership and current opportunities. 

The post Dealership Advisor Tips for Maximizing the Spring Selling Season & Overall Value appeared first on RVBS.

The RV Market Reset: 2025 Marks a New Era of Growth (An Open Letter to the Industry) 23 Jan 2025, 2:39 am

An Open Letter to the Industry

Dear Industry Stakeholders,

As we enter 2025, the RV market stands on the cusp of an exciting new chapter. Although recent years have brought their share of challenges, both historical data and emerging trends suggest that this year will mark the start of a positive and sustainable run for our industry. At RV Business Solutions, we remain optimistic and confident in the RV sector’s resilience and adaptability.

Learning from the Past, Looking to the Future

The RV industry has always been cyclical, with steady growth periods followed by natural resets. These resets, like the one we experienced from late 2022 into 2024, serve as necessary recalibrations that prime the market for renewed strength. History shows that 2025 is poised to be a pivotal year, signaling recovery and growth.

Looking back, previous resets, such as the late 2000s downturn (which saw a 52% drop in business in 2008 and 2009), were followed by significant innovation, an expanded customer base, and robust sales. Between 2010 and 2018, sales increased an average of 12.7% annually, with new retails growing over 323,000 during that time period.

Today, we’re seeing many of the same indicators of a positive shift: stabilizing economic conditions, rebalanced inventories, and consistent consumer enthusiasm for the RV lifestyle. After a 43.2% drop in retails over the past three years (since 2021), prevailing trends point toward sustainable growth well into the 2030s.

Why 2025 Is the Year of Opportunity

Several factors are converging to make 2025 a launchpad for a new era of growth:

• Resilient Consumer Demand: The desire for RVing as a lifestyle remains robust, especially among millennials and Gen Z. They view RVing as an affordable, flexible way to travel and connect with nature—values that continue to resonate.
• Economic Tailwinds: While high interest rates have moderated financing in recent years, 2025 brings signs of stabilization and potential rate reductions. As borrowing becomes more affordable, pent-up demand is likely to convert into stronger sales, particularly for entry-level and mid-tier models.
• Aligned Inventories: In the wake of supply chain disruptions and inventory imbalances, manufacturers and dealers have realigned production and stock levels. This creates a balanced market in which consumers can easily access the models they want, without the risk of oversupply.
• Back to Basics: The industry’s focus on affordability and value has never been stronger. By prioritizing customer needs and offering products that match varying budgets and expectations, the RV market is positioned to attract a broad range of buyers and keep them engaged for years to come.

A New Bar Has Been Set

COVID-19 introduced many new buyers to the RV space, propelling annual retails to an all-time high of 567,534. Though we have recalibrated after a 43.2% drop over three years, the market is resetting from a still-strong base of 353,000 retails in 2024, far above the 171,000 retails in 2009.

This momentum is reinforced by Gen Z’s love of the great outdoors. Today, 11.2 million U.S. households own an RV, and 9.6 million of those plan to purchase another RV within five years. Among Gen Z RV owners, 84% plan to buy another RV in five years or less. The median age of the RV buyer is now 32, a 22% decrease from 2021. These younger owners will continue to drive retail growth as they move through different life stages.

Population Growth

The U.S. population has grown from about 290 million in 2003 to over 340 million in 2024. That’s an increase of 50 million people in just two decades, with many now prioritizing quality time and outdoor experiences, particularly after the restrictive COVID-19 lockdowns. This demographic shift bodes well for continued growth in the RV market.

Dealer Consolidation

Dealer consolidation is another sign of a bullish marketplace. Larger dealer groups have ambitious expansion plans, while regional groups are also in growth mode. Auto dealers are increasingly interested in purchasing RV dealerships, and private equity firms remain highly active in the space. These trends point to a healthy, dynamic environment.

A Positive Road Ahead

The conditions in 2025 are more than just favorable; they provide a solid foundation for long-term growth. The industry is now leaner, more strategic, and better prepared to meet today’s buyers where they are. At RV Business Solutions, we view 2025 as an opportunity to invigorate the market, strengthen consumer relationships, and set the stage for success well into the future.

We encourage our RV dealer partners to embrace 2025 with optimism and a forward-thinking approach. By focusing on value, nurturing customer relationships, and staying agile, we can collectively shape this year into the start of a vibrant new cycle for the RV market.

Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to the RV industry. Together, let’s capitalize on the opportunities 2025 presents and build a prosperous future for our entire community.

Sincerely,

Mike Lankford and Scott Degnan

RV Business Solutions (RVBS)

The post The RV Market Reset: 2025 Marks a New Era of Growth (An Open Letter to the Industry) appeared first on RVBS.

Dealership News: How Technology Impacts Dealership Value 16 Jan 2025, 2:09 pm

In today’s modern day and age, one thing impacts dealership value, something that’s “new” to even the most veteran RV dealers. Today, more now than ever, the tech stacks that power RV dealerships affect their value when heading towards a dealership buy-sell agreement. 

From AI integration to RV service software, is your dealership 21st century-ready when it comes to technology that impacts dealership value? This guide will help you decide and strategize for a more tech-savvy future. 

So, keep reading to learn more about the evolution of dealership technology, key investment areas affecting valuations, how to measure ROI, and challenges to consider for implementation. Plus, how RVBS can help prepare for and execute the optimal dealership buy-sell transaction for your business. 

The Evolution of Dealership Technology

Looking ahead always helps to know (and appreciate) where the industry has come from. From the inception of RV dealerships, operations have progressed from manual pen-and-paper systems to basic DOS-based management systems and finally to advanced cloud-friendly platforms. 

Today, dealerships benefit (and are expected to provide!) from various technology platforms that integrate nearly every aspect of the business. Unlike in the past, with a rise in competition, modern dealers are expected to maintain systems that provide seamless online-to-offline customer experiences, mobile-first communications, and real-time inventory management across multiple platforms. 

If your dealership has yet to catch up with those around you, now’s the time, especially if you’re considering a future dealership buy-sell agreement. Next, we’ll cover the top technology areas and investments affecting dealership valuations the most in today’s market. 

Key Technology Affecting Dealership Buy-Sell Valuation 

Here are the top 4 key technology areas you should invest in to positively impact your future dealership buy-sell valuation. 

Digital Retailing Platforms 

The first piece of technology that can support the enhanced customer experience we spoke about already is a robust digital retailing platform. These solutions enable buyers to complete their entire purchase journey online, from virtual 360-degree walkthroughs of RV interiors to seamless financing applications and digital document signing.

By integrating F&I tools directly into the digital sales process, dealers streamline transactions while maximizing backend product penetration. This shows potential buyers or investors that your dealership supports market reach expansion and can offer better customer acquisition costs with targeted marketing than those dealerships without online platforms. 

RV Dealer Software for Customer Relationship Management

RV dealership management software for customer relationships has also evolved. Over time, they’ve gone from essential contract management platforms to savvy customer engagement hubs. Today, the versions that increase the value of your dealership the most are those that can provide comprehensive lead tracking across multiple touchpoints while also automating marketing campaigns.  

Even more, dealerships should seek out RV dealer software for CRM that offers integrated communication tools for seamless follow-up and engagement throughout the extended RV purchase cycle. Through advanced analytics, dealers can leverage customer data to identify high-value prospects, predict seasonal buying patterns, and maximize lifetime value through targeted service promotions and trade-in opportunities.

This proves to potential buyers your dealership comes with a data-driven and built-in approach that builds lasting relationships that extend well beyond the initial sale.

RV Service Software & Technology

It’s not just a robust service department that can help sell your dealership, but also the RV repair shop software and systems that power it. Systems that integrate modern platforms to streamline operations while enhancing customer satisfaction can improve the valuation of your business exponentially. The best systems combine: 

• Online scheduling capabilities 
• Digital inspection tools 
• Documentation capabilities
• Photo and video uploads 

Other features like predictive maintenance alerts also help service departments proactively engage customers, while increasing revenue seamlessly. Speaking of customer engagement, beyond the standard features, some RV service software will offer real-time communication portals, mobile payment options, and other features that help keep consumers informed throughout the repair process. 

Inventory Management Solutions 

Last but not least, a powerful inventory management solution has the potential to boost your dealership’s valuation. The most cutting-edge solutions available today leverage AI algorithms to optimize RV pricing based on real-time market data, seasonal trends, and local demand patterns. Many also seamlessly sync inventory across multiple listing sites, with features like automatic price adjustment to maintain competitiveness. 

By integrating market intelligence with automated procurement tools, dealers can optimize their inventory mix and turn rates, ensuring the proper units are in stock at the right time to maximize profitability and minimize holding costs. This provides potential buyers the peace of mind that your systems are designed not only to drive market traffic but also to do so in a manner that handles fluctuations and optimal ROI. 

Best Practices for Implementation 

It’s not just investing in and installing the above technology pieces… it’s implementing it effectively for the utmost success. To help achieve optimal results, here are some final best practices to keep in mind for the smooth implementation of new technology systems. 

1. Measure ROI: Be sure you’re tracking KPIs, or key performance indicators with any new piece of technology you adopt. This could be tracking its revenue generation, or increase in customer satisfication or retention improvements, but allows you to provide cold-hard proof of your dealership’s system to potential buyers. 
2. Staff training: Another best practice for new technology system implementation is ensuring your staff is fully trained and on board with the change with change management programs. 
3. System integration: Before deciding on new technology to add to your dealership’s repertoire, double-check that it integrates with your current or existing systems to avoid it complicating already proven processes. 
4. Scalability considerations: Ensure the systems you select can grow alongside business expansion and increased transaction volumes. The chosen platforms must not only accommodate current needs but should also have the flexibility to handle additional locations, increased inventory levels, and growing customer databases without degrading performance or requiring complete system overhauls.

The Bottom Line: Get Dealership News from RVBS 

To stay in line with the market and ahead of your competition, make RVBS your go-to for dealership news. From technology that impacts future dealership buy-sell transactions to suggestion RV dealership software that works, we strive to drive the industry’s future and empower RV dealers across the US. 

Learn more with our complete collection of insights and resources, subscribe to our newsletter for dealership news and tips delivered directly, or get in touch to partner with the leading buy-sell advisory group for RV dealers to prepare your business for future sales and improved value.

The post Dealership News: How Technology Impacts Dealership Value appeared first on RVBS.

Expanding Your RV Dealership in a Down Market Could be a Smart Move 13 Jan 2025, 4:32 pm

Expanding your RV dealership during a down market might seem counterintuitive, but it’s actually a strategic move that can set your business up for long-term success. Economic downturns, while challenging, offer unique opportunities that can benefit those willing to plan and act decisively.

One of the most compelling reasons to expand in a down market is the potential for lower costs. Real estate prices, rental rates, and construction expenses often drop during periods of economic uncertainty, providing a chance to secure prime locations or build out existing facilities at a fraction of what it might cost during a booming economy. Additionally, operational costs, such as hiring skilled employees, can be more manageable, as the labor market typically becomes more competitive.

A down market also tends to reduce competition, as many businesses are hesitant to take risks during uncertain times. This provides a window for innovation and differentiation. RV dealerships can stand out by offering creative solutions such as flexible financing options, bundled service packages, or loyalty programs designed to attract budget-conscious buyers. These strategies not only appeal to current customers but also build brand loyalty for the future.

Despite economic challenges, the RV lifestyle continues to appeal to many consumers. During a down market, people often seek more cost-effective ways to travel and vacation, and RVs can provide an ideal solution. Additionally, the rising popularity of remote work has made mobile living more viable, which further supports steady demand for RVs. Expanding your dealership to include options that cater to these trends, such as smaller, more affordable models or upgraded amenities for remote workers, can help you capture a growing niche market.

Investing in your business during a downturn also prepares you for future market recovery. When consumer confidence rebounds and spending increases, your dealership will be well-positioned to take advantage of the upswing. Expanded facilities, increased inventory, and a stronger brand presence will ensure you’re ahead of competitors who may have been overly cautious.

Furthermore, many suppliers and manufacturers may be more willing to negotiate favorable terms during slower periods, allowing you to secure better deals on inventory. This not only reduces your upfront and monthly flooring costs but also enables you to pass savings on to your customers, making your dealership even more attractive in a competitive landscape.

Finally, taking bold steps during a challenging market sends a powerful message to your customers and community. It demonstrates confidence in your business and a commitment to providing value, even in uncertain times. This can help to improve your reputation as a reliable and forward-thinking leader in the RV industry.

In conclusion, while expanding during a down market requires careful planning and risk management, the potential rewards are significant. By taking advantage of lower costs, reduced competition, and evolving consumer needs, your RV dealership can emerge stronger and better positioned for future growth. A downturn is not just a challenge, it’s an opportunity to invest in your business’ success.

The post Expanding Your RV Dealership in a Down Market Could be a Smart Move appeared first on RVBS.