MC Fireside Chats - May 22nd, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, an insightful discussion unfolded featuring Greg Wallman, Owner and President of Space Craft; Devon Wilson, CEO and Founder of RV SnapPad; and Jeff Wertz, Product Business Manager at Spartan RV. The conversation provided a deep dive into the evolving RV and campground industries, touching on various technological advancements, market trends, and the challenges these sectors face in keeping up with rapid growth and innovation. Greg Wallman began by highlighting the importance of technological integration in RVs and campgrounds. He emphasized the growing demand for reliable Wi-Fi and electrical infrastructure to support remote work and leisure activities. Wallman noted that many of their customers now live and work full-time in their RVs, which necessitates advanced networking capabilities. This trend is pushing manufacturers to innovate and adapt quickly to meet the evolving needs of RV users. Jeff Wertz from Spartan RV echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical role of information technology in the RV industry. He pointed out that even families are increasingly using RVs for extended travel while maintaining their work commitments. Wertz also discussed the growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and the integration of lithium batteries to extend boondocking capabilities. This shift towards more sustainable and efficient power solutions is a significant focus for manufacturers and chassis providers like Spartan RV. Devon Wilson of RV SnapPad added that the market is indeed getting younger, with more people embracing the flexibility of remote work. This demographic shift is driving demand for RVs equipped with modern conveniences and smart technologies. Wilson also shared his company’s experience with artificial intelligence (AI), particularly in customer service. He described how RV SnapPad is leveraging AI to handle standard queries and improve customer interactions, though they remain cautious about over-reliance on technology, ensuring the human element remains a core part of their service. The conversation delved into specific innovations in RV design, with Wallman sharing some cutting-edge developments. He mentioned water makers that extract water from the air, advanced blackwater processing systems, and recycling showers designed for long-term sustainability. These innovations are particularly beneficial for boondocking, allowing RV users to stay off-grid for extended periods without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Jeff Wertz elaborated on the role of Spartan RV in supporting these technological advancements. He explained how the company is involved in integrating larger alternators and advanced power systems to support the increased electrical demands of modern RVs. Wertz also touched on the potential future integration of electric vehicle technology into RVs, noting the challenges and opportunities this presents, especially in balancing the need for large water tanks and other amenities with the space and weight constraints of EVs. Brian Searl, the host, steered the conversation towards future-proofing campgrounds. He inquired about the steps campground owners could take to stay ahead of the curve. Wallman and Wertz both agreed that investing in robust electrical infrastructure and reliable information technology is crucial. They emphasized that campers increasingly expect high-quality internet access and ample power for their devices, making these elements essential for attracting and retaining customers. The discussion also touched on the potential impact of AI and robotics on the RV and campground industries. Searl posed a thought-provoking question about the hypothetical scenario of employing robots if they could perform tasks perfectly tailored to the business’s needs. Wallman and Wertz were open to the idea but highlighted the importance of validating the capabilities of such technology. Wilson, on the other hand, expressed a degree of skepticism, citing trust issues and the need to balance technological advancements with maintaining a personal touch in customer service. Greg Wallman shared some fascinating insights into the custom RV manufacturing process. He described how Space Craft receives unique customer requests that often push the boundaries of current technology. Wallman noted that while some ideas are not yet feasible, the company enjoys the challenge of finding innovative solutions and has had several “aha” moments where they were able to implement groundbreaking features that customers had not initially considered. Devon Wilson concluded by reflecting on the rapid pace of technological growth and its implications for the RV industry. He mentioned that RV SnapPad is continually exploring new technologies to enhance their products and services. However, Wilson stressed the importance of not overcommitting to unproven technologies and ensuring that any new implementations genuinely add value to the customer experience. Overall, the episode provided a comprehensive overview of the current state and future direction of the RV and campground industries. The insights from Greg Wallman, Devon Wilson, and Jeff Wertz highlighted the importance of staying adaptable, embracing technological advancements, and always considering the evolving needs of the customer. As the industry continues to innovate, it is clear that those who can effectively integrate new technologies while maintaining a high level of customer service will be best positioned for success.