RVIA honored former Chairman Kevin McArt of Forest River during the annual Chairman’s Dinner at RVs Move America Week.
RVIA Chairman Mary Pouliot discussed some of McArt’s accomplishments during his time as chairman, including the release of two studies. The first was the Path to Purchase study, tracing first-time and repeat buyers’ journey to purchasing an RV. The second was the Vacation Cost Comparison Study in 2023, which found RV vacations to be up to 60% less expensive than comparable vacations.
During McArt’s tenure, three new groups joined RVIA. The RV Campground Coalition was created to unify the outdoor recreation industry around campgrounds’ importance to RVing. The Sustainability Committee convenes sustainability experts to share ideas and best practices for sustainability practices. The Workplace Safety Taskforce was elevated to a standing committee.
Among the advances in government affairs during McArt’s tenure were the EXPLORE Act’s passage. The legislation expanded and improved outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands and waters. RV franchise legislation was adopted in three states—Maryland, Wisconsin and Washington—during McArt’s tenure.
RVIA said, “The RV Industry Association thanks Kevin McArt for his extensive service, leadership and dedication to the industry.”
Forest River and Patrick Industries sponsored the Chairman’s Dinner, which took place Tuesday.
