Local RV Show Expands as Economy Improves

Pleasanton, CA – In a sign the RV industry—and the economy as a whole—is on the road to recovery, GoodTimes Promotions will hold two RV shows in a year for the first time since 2008, and will expand in size and number of dealers.

Mike Nohr, the founder of GoodTimes Promotions and organizer of the 18th Annual Northern California Spring RV Show and Sale slated for May 14-23, said the troubled economy delivered one of the worst blows to the RV industry he’d seen in 35 years—which is why he held only one show in 2009. However, Nohr, who organized the West Coast’s largest RV show at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in January, said the economic tide is turning.

“We had a lot of folks come out to the winter show and we sold a lot of RVs,” he said. “People are feeling better about the economy and want to get back to doing some of the things they love—like traveling.”
In fact, a recent survey by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association shows that RV manufacturers shipped 20,100 new RVs to dealers in February—up 27 percent over January and up 95 percent over February 2009 shipments—making it the best month in nearly two years.

After seeing strong sales at their winter event and promising economic indications from the industry, GoodTimes is embracing the good news and beefing up the event: 70,000 more square feet, dozens more RVs and more dealers showcasing their wares will make the May show one of their largest yet and allow customers to speak to dealers in one convenient location.

“The signs are all there,” said show manager Shawn Nohr. “The sellers who survived the recession were willing to make good deals. They’re eager to keep this recovery rolling, so they will be out to wheel and deal.”

Cost: Adults $7; seniors (62+) $6, children 15 and under free. Special “Senior Wednesday 2 for 1.” Held at the Alameda County Fairgrounds: 4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton, May 14-23, 2010; Mon – Fri 11am – 7pm, Sat & Sun 10am – 8pm; Sun 10am – 6pm. For information, call (925) 931-1890 or visit www.rvshow.net.

Nikki

Nikki is a writer and editor for Do It Yourself RV, RV LIFE, and Camper Report. She is based on the Oregon Coast and has traveled all over the Pacific Northwest.