Iowa's Iconic Winnebago Retools to Attract Younger Buyers

[TBoneTX 45,569]

Below is the beginning of what I think is an interesting, informative story about RVs in general and Winnebago in particular. It tells how a recession-vulnerable corporation survived hard times and now plans to thrive.

Iowa's Iconic Winnebago Retools to Attract Younger Buyers

Kevin Hardy

4:59 p.m. CST November 22, 2016

FOREST CITY, Ia. — Michael Happe is the first to understand the fine line he walks as the president and CEO of Winnebago Industries.

He knows the importance of protecting the RV maker's brand name, synonymous with massive motor homes that tower over passing cars on the freeway, usually driven by someone with silver hair.

But he also knows that market won't be enough for the Iowa-grown company to remain competitive. Winnebago is rebuilding itself, expanding its line and doubling down on smaller, sleeker and less expensive RVs that will appeal to younger buyers.

"We believe that we are one of the leaders in the RV industry," Happe told the Register. "However, we can't rest on the laurels of that legacy. We can’t be complacent."

Since Happe took the helm in January, about half of the executive leadership has turned over. And many of the company's top leaders work out of a newly formed office in the Twin Cities, a moved announced when Happe was hired.

Winnebago has begun moving the production of its biggest coaches to the West Coast.

The company's most ambitious change came the way of the $500 million purchase of Grand Design, which makes towable recreational vehicles that appeal to millennials' lifestyles.

Story continues here:

http://www.press-citizen.com/story/money/business/2016/11/22/iowa-winnebago-retools-attract-younger-buyers/93656818/

Edited November 23, 2016 by TBoneTX

[MarkPerry 488]

Winnebago is the gold standard in RV, Like Airstream is in travel Trailers. I grew up traveling across american in a travel trailer during the summers. It was memories that will last a lifetime.

I hope the younger people get on board with this, Kuddos for him trying to change the market.

[The Nature Boy 7,659]

Odd that Winebago, at least in my generation is a generic word for motor home.

Like Kleenex or Vaseline.

[TBoneTX 45,569]

Not odd at all. Do you also say "Make a Xerox of this"?

[The Nature Boy 7,659]

Not odd at all. Do you also say "Make a Xerox of this"?

Yes indeed and coke is any soda

[NigeriaorBust 4,087]

Love the little Winnie Drops ( teardrop trailer )

[The Nature Boy 7,659]

Love the little Winnie Drops ( teardrop trailer )

That's an interesting name you have there