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RV Parts Giants Patrick and Lippert Plan a Major Merger
Patrick Industries and LCI Industries, the parent company of Lippert, have agreed to merge in an all-stock deal that could reshape the RV supply chain. The combined company would remain based in Elkhart, Indiana, with Patrick CEO Andy Nemeth expected to lead it. For RV owners, the deal matters because both companies already supply many of the frames, slide systems, axles, furniture, electronics, hardware, and interior parts found in today’s campers.
The companies say the merger could bring broader product offerings, more research and development, smoother operations, and more than $150 million in expected run-rate cost savings within three years after closing. Still, there are concerns that combining two major suppliers could reduce competition, give the new company more pricing power, and leave RV manufacturers with fewer sourcing options. The deal still needs shareholder and regulatory approval and is expected to close in the first half of 2027.
California Gets Tough on Campground No-Shows
California State Parks has tightened its campsite cancellation and no-show rules for reservations with arrival dates on or after July 1, 2026. Campers who cancel less than two days before their reservation starts, or fail to show up, will now lose all fees paid for that booking. The state says the goal is to free up more campsites for people who plan to use them, especially at parks where reservations vanish quickly.
The new policy also adds a bigger penalty for repeat no-shows. Campers with three no-shows in one calendar year can be blocked from making ReserveCalifornia reservations for 365 days. Cancellations still matter, even when a refund is no longer available, because canceling can keep the reservation from being counted as a no-show and may help park staff release the site to another camper.
RV Sales Are Slowing, and Buyer Trust May Be Part of the Problem
The RV industry is blaming its current slowdown on familiar pressures: higher fuel costs, high interest rates, inflation, and tighter household budgets. Those factors are real, and RVIA has lowered its 2026 shipment outlook as buyers delay large discretionary purchases. Reuters also reported that inflation-adjusted consumer spending on recreational vehicles and related goods fell in April for the fifth straight month.
Still, the article argues that affordability may not be the whole story. Many RV shoppers are also questioning build quality, warranty support, parts delays, and dealer service. Used RV registrations have been rising, which suggests some buyers still want to camp, but may be choosing lower-cost or previously tested rigs instead of taking on larger payments for new ones. The takeaway is that the slowdown may be about both money and confidence.
Dolly Parton Opens a Tennessee Travel Stop With a Wink at Buc-ee’s
Dolly Parton has opened Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee, off Interstate 65 at Exit 22. The location was formerly the Tennessean Travel Stop, but it has been rebranded with Parton’s name, style, and Tennessee roots. The stop now includes a full-service restaurant and bar, a stage, a cafe serving Dolly’s “Cup of Ambition” coffee, themed merchandise, a tour bus photo spot, and a dog park called “Doggy Parton.”
Parton made a surprise appearance for the ribbon-cutting and joked that she “couldn’t leave it to beavers,” a playful nod to Buc-ee’s. The stop fits into a growing trend of large travel centers becoming destinations rather than quick fuel stops. For RVers, it could be a fun and memorable place to pull off I-65, though the Dolly branding may also bring bigger crowds and busier parking areas.
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The RV industry has a long road ahead of itself. I agree that quality is a big factor of declining sales and changing buyer perception will take a long time.
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