Camping World is a major retailer of recreational vehicles in the world. The company operates over 180 retail and service locations across 46 states, selling RVs, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and related accessories. It also offers a full range of outdoor lifestyle products, including clothing for all ages and genders.
Over the past several years, the company's growth has been rapid. Camping World Holdings raised $251 million in its initial public offering (IPO) in 2016. It plans to aggressively expand its national footprint by acquiring locations in key markets, re-branding its products as Gander Outdoors, and investing in its dealer network.
Two retail veterans have been appointed by the company as its chief executives for its omnichannel strategy. They are Elizabeth Garry, the former Walmart assistant director of e-commerce, and Jessica Wegner, the Ulta Beauty director of loyalty programs. They are both responsible for customer acquisition and retention.
Camping World has been a leader within the recreational vehicle sector for decades. To attract consumers to its stores, Camping World offers a wide variety of RV products as well as services like financing. The company sells RVs, accessories, and other products from companies like Winnebago Keystone Fleetwood, Fleetwood, Forest River, Fleetwood, and Keystone. It also stocks a wide selection of recreation-related merchandise like books, fishing gear, entertainment items, and satellite radio receivers. Customers are also encouraged to buy additional warranties.
Camping World is a well-known dealer of recreational vehicles. However, many customers are unhappy with the quality of its service. Many times, customers find that technicians are not interested in answering their questions. It also has a bad reputation for taking too long to fix problems.
The company offers a wide range of outdoor products beyond RVs, such as clothing and accessories for pets, as well as bedding. The company owns brands such Ascoton, Gander Outdoors, as well as The House Boardshop. The company's business model doesn't seem to have changed. The CEO has made some politically charged comments. The company has also been criticized because of its large dealerships and high prices.
Camping World is an enormous company with a complex corporate structure. It has many shareholders and owners, with most having a substantial stake. Crestview Partners, Inc., the parent company of Camping World Holdings, Inc., holds most of its shares.
Good Sam Enterprises purchased the company in 1997. Later, it merged with FreedomRoads which was founded Marcus Lemonis. Camping World was faced with a severe infrastructure crisis in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the increase in customer volume, the company faced serious infrastructure issues.
In addition to its relationships with sports entities, Camping World has also partnered with companies such as ESPN and Major League Baseball. These industries have a strong brand presence, and Camping World has multi-million-dollar sponsorships.