Dave Kahle
Chairman’s Column
Dear members,
While many of us are still feeling the effects of brisk winter weather, it’s encouraging to see such strong enthusiasm across the RV community as we look ahead to spring. RV enthusiasts are clearly eager for the season to begin, and that excitement has been evident at the many retail RV shows taking place across the country. There has been a sense of cautious optimism going into these events, with hopes they would be well attended and attract buyers ready to take the next step toward fulfilling their RV lifestyle dreams.
So far, that optimism has been well founded. The majority of shows to date have seen solid attendance, and sales activity is taking place. Show producers are reporting genuine consumer interest, with many attendees actively exploring purchase options. Overall, the mood has been positive and forwardlooking. Our industry continues to shine by offering fun, flexible, and affordable vacation options for Canadian families, and consumers are increasingly choosing RV travel for the convenience, comfort, and control it provides.
There is also some welcome news on the regulatory front. Reporting for Phase 2 of the Federal Plastics Registry has been delayed following feedback from industry stakeholders, including concerns around the complexity of the expanded requirements, the level of detail being requested, and the time needed to establish appropriate data-tracking systems. The original reporting deadline of September 29, 2026 has been postponed, providing dealers with valuable additional time to gather documentation and develop more manageable compliance processes. Environment and Climate Change Canada has indicated that revised reporting requirements will be outlined in a new Notice in the Canada Gazette, expected in the summer of 2026. We will remain engaged on this topic, stay tuned.
Chairman’s Column
As we move through the winter months, many dealers have a rare window to lift their heads up from daily operations and focus on working on the business, rather than solely in the business. This is a valuable time to assess what’s working, address inefficiencies, develop people, and ensure systems and processes are ready for the demands of the upcoming season. Dealers who take advantage of this planning period are often better positioned to respond quickly, operate more efficiently, and capture opportunities as consumer interest continues to build.
In support of that work, if you are looking for convenient and accessible opportunities for continuing education, we encourage you to explore our association’s educational webinar series. These sessions play an important role in supporting the ongoing growth and professionalism of the Canadian RV industry. Beyond sharing information, the webinar series reflects RVDA of Canada’s commitment to education, collaboration, and industry leadership. The online format makes it easy for professionals from across the country to connect, learn, and exchange ideas without geographic barriers. Designed for dealers, suppliers, and industry partners, the series delivers timely, relevant content that speaks directly to the real-world challenges and opportunities facing our sector. Further details are available on our website.
Finally, a reminder that as an RVDA of Canada member, you have access to the Go RVing Canada Dealer Tie-In Marketing Program. This program is designed to help dealers enhance their local marketing efforts by aligning with national consumer campaigns. It offers ready-to-use creative assets, digital advertising support, and turnkey promotional tools that make it easier to stand out in an increasingly competitive marketplace. By connecting retailers directly to national campaigns, the Tie-In Program helps dealers stretch their marketing dollars further while reinforcing consistent, trusted messaging.
Thank you for your continued leadership and commitment to our industry. The months ahead bring real opportunity, and by staying focused, prepared, and connected, we’re well positioned for a strong start to the season.
Ken Dobson Chairman of the Board RVDA of Canada
Canadian National RV Retail Statistics
December 2025
These statistics will allow dealers to better manage the inventory on their lot by knowing which units are selling in their area, which price points are attracting buyers as well as knowing the local trends affecting their marketplace.
The RV retail sales statistics compiled by Statistical Surveys Inc. are the result of matching manufacturer VIN numbers with RV registrations.
The RVDA of Canada endorsement agreement includes free access for national monthly figures only, for members only. Going forward, these figures will be published in the RVDA of Canada bimonthly newsletter and archived at the “RV Statistics / National RV Sales” link on the member side of www.rvda.ca.
This information is copyrighted to Statistical Surveys Inc. and for your use only, not for distribution. In order to protect your endorsement benefit, please honour that confidentiality.
To purchase more detailed statistics – by province, region or city and learn more about Statistical Surveys Inc., visit www.statisticalsurveys.com
Canadians.
Aviva Canada is on a mission to change insurance. "At Aviva, we listen to our customers' views and opinions because by listening and acting on your feedback, we become better at what we do.
We want Aviva customers to feel they are being treated as people, not as a number. We want our customers to be confident and comfortable that they have the right insurance to cover their needs. And we want our customers to have a positive experience at Aviva. We've already started the change by introducing our claims service satisfaction guarantee which you can learn more by visiting www.ClaimsGuarantee.com
Elite Insurance Company is Canada's largest insurer of specialty personal insurance products since 1954, covering recreational vehicles, mobile homes, antique & custom cars and pleasure crafts. To learn more about Aviva Elite and their mission to change insurance visit their website: www.avivacanada.com
Aviva Elite
Third Quarter Economic Review RVDA of Canada
gaining insights into the changing economic dimensions of the RV industry and the economy at large.
Canadian Economic Outlook
The Canadian economy is adjusting to steep US tariffs on several industries and coping with elevated uncertainty. Tariffs have led to a fall in the demand for Canadian goods, affecting the broader economy. The reconfiguration of global trade and domestic production is also leading to higher costs. Total inflation has been around 2%, while underlying inflation has continued to be about 2½%.
With US tariffs and limited Canadian counter - tariffs in place, the effects of the trade conflict on growth and inflation in Canada are becoming clearer. Exports to the United States have fallen, and business investment has declined. The structural shift in the Canada - US trade relationship has put the economy on a lower path. At the same time, the reconfiguration of global trade and the restructuring of the Canadian economy are adding costs and putting upward pressure on inflation.
Considerable uncertainty remains around US tariffs and how changes to global trade relationships will affect economic growth and consumer prices in Canada. This uncertainty includes the review of the Canada - United States - Mexico Agreement.
How other major structural changes such as shifting demographics and the adoption of artificial intelligence will affect the Canadian economy is also unclear. The effects of these developments on output and inflation will play out over many years. Monetary policy cannot offset the long - term implications of US tariffs or other sources of structural change. The primary focus of monetary policy is to maintain low and stable inflation.
What’s ImpactingYour Business in 2026?
Inflation. Political uncertainty. Workforce pressures. The everyday realities of running a successful dealership.
These are not abstract policy issues — they are real challenges affecting your business right now. And they require our ongoing attention in Ottawa. Effective advocacy isn’t just about showing up in Ottawa; it’s about showing up with your data.
We don’t want to guess what your biggest headache is we want to hear it directly from you.
WhenYou Speak Up, Ottawa Listens
In 2025, your concerns drove real results:
Relief from U.S. Motorhome Surtaxes
You told us the 25% surtax on motorhomes was hurting your business. We brought that message to Ottawa, and the Government of Canada granted remission. This protected your margins and kept units moving.
PFAS Reporting Made Easier (Members Only)
When members flagged the administrative burden of PFAS reporting, we acted. We secured approval to submit one consolidated report on behalf of all member dealerships, while non-members still file independently.
Standing Up for Canadian Manufacturers
Your advocacy helped us support Canadian manufacturers facing tariffs on motorized units sold into the U.S. We’re working alongside CRVA and RVIA to deliver unified messaging and push for exemptions.
Shaping CUSMA’s Future
We brought your concerns about tariffs and trade disputes directly to the federal consultation on the Canada–U.S.–Mexico Agreement review, urging transparent consultation and protection for integrated supply chains. These wins didn’t happen by accident. They happened because members like you spoke up about what matters.
Take the 2026 Business Pulse Survey
Now we need to hear from you again.
This isn’t your typical advocacy survey. We’re taking the pulse on what’s affecting your dealership right now whether that’s workforce challenges, tax frustrations, infrastructure gaps, economic headwinds, or something else entirely.
The survey takes about 5 minutes and closes on February 27, 2026.
Let’s make sure Ottawa hears the right things.
Take the survey
Start Your Friday in Toronto with Fresh Insights and Industry Connection!
The Toronto Spring Camping and RV Show is bringing back one of its most anticipated traditions: the Annual Exhibitor Breakfast. Taking place on Friday morning, February 27, this event offers a perfect opportunity for dealers, manufacturers, and partners to connect and gear up for the busy weekend ahead.
Held in support of the RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA), the breakfast is proudly sponsored by the RVDA of Canada and the Canadian Recreation Vehicle Association (CRVA), celebrating the collaboration that keeps our industry strong.
A Tool for Every Dealership: The Dealer Tie-In Program
This year’s featured speaker is Go RVing Canada President Chris Mahony, who will showcase the impressive variety of resources available through the Dealer Tie-In Program.
With consumer interest in the RV lifestyle reaching new heights highlighted by a 34% surge in organic web traffic and a 28% increase in users researching specific units Go RVing Canada has developed a wide-ranging toolkit to help dealers convert that digital interest into local sales.
Be honest: how many times have you heard about the Dealer Tie -In Program but have yet to actually click and explore the offerings? Do you think Go RVing Canada just produces beautiful photos and creative shorts? While they certainly excel at the "eye candy," there is a powerhouse of strategic tools sitting just behind that login screen. Psst... they offer much more than that. It’s a full-service marketing engine designed to drive traffic directly to your doorstep.
At the breakfast, you’ll discover how to stop "scrolling past" and start leveraging:
• Showroom Inspiration: Exclusive Dealer Tie-In posters and a Dealer Handbook to help your team turn "just looking" into meaningful sales conversations.
• Social Media Mastery: Strategies for Employee-Generated Content (EGC)—the secret to turning your staff into social ambassadors that customers actually trust.
• Local PR Power: The Dealer Communications Guide, packed with data and tips to help you pitch your dealership to local news and radio stations.
• National Momentum: Direct alignment with high-impact campaigns like the Affordability initiative and the RV the North Giveaway.
Don't Leave Success to Chance
The best way to see what you've been missing is to join the conversation in person. It’s a chance to fuel up, connect with your peers, and support the vital work of the RV Women’s Alliance in fostering mentorship across our industry.
The full suite of tools is just a click away, but the best insights happen over breakfast. We'll see you there!
Event Details All exhibitors and manufacturer representatives are encouraged to join this high-energy session.
• When: Friday, February 27, 2026 | 8:30 AM EST
• Where: The International Centre, Hall 5 (RV Lifestyle Village)
Register Here
To explore the full range of digital assets and marketing guides before the event, dealers can also visit the portal at marketing.gorving.ca.
From Chaos to Control: One Concept that Will Transform Your Time Management.
By Dave Kahle
Note: This is one of a series of posts on the 25 most important lessons I’ve learned in my 30 + years of consulting and training.
“How many of you have too much to do and not enough time in which to do it?”
I’ve asked that question in almost every one of my seminars. You can guess the answers. Almost every hand goes up. The only ones who don’t raise their hands are the people who are a few months away from retirement and are starting to check out. It doesn’t matter what the job title is: Salesperson, customer service rep, manager, CEO, entrepreneur. Geography doesn’t matter either. I have seen the same response in Zimbabwe, Ghana, Mexico, Colombia as I do in the US and Canada.
It is not just your job, it’s not your company, it’s not your industry, and it’s not your country. It is almost everyone and everywhere. It is one of the defining characteristics of the 21st century.
Because of the pace of change, the proliferation of media and the speed of communication technology, almost everyone is overwhelmed, stressed and distracted. Chaos reigns all around us. I like to call it the Age of Turmoil.
All this elevates time management to the top of the list of essential survival habits. Not only do we need to master it, but we also need to get it right. Our ability to function in our chaotic environment depends in large way on the decisions we make about how we use our time.
And that’s the rub for many people, who view successful time management as jamming more tasks into the course of the day. Their view revolves around the concept of efficiency. That’s what gives rise to the practice of multi-tasking – working on multiple projects or tasks at the same time in the pursuit of efficiency.
Under this view, if you are able to jam more tasks into the day, you are good at time management. That is a bit of a shadow accomplishment. Efficiency can help you use your time better, but it is limited. The business person in pursuit of efficiency often finds himself / herself successfully completing that which should not have been done in the first place. John Maxwell said:
Efficiency is the foundation for survival.
Effectiveness is the foundation of success.
And Peter Drucker once reflected: There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all.
Effective
A better approach is to focus on effectiveness. Whereas efficiency focuses on accomplishing more, effectiveness focuses on accomplishing that which is more important.
Here’s an example: Let’s say you’ve decided to make your living as a housepainter. You invest in all the latest equipment. The big day comes, and you paint your first house. You’re very proud of the fact that you have been incredibly efficient – it took you 35 hours to paint the house, and most painters would have taken 50. As you sit in your truck feeling pretty good about yourself you begin to create the invoice, you look at the contract and then back at the house, and a sick feeling crawls through your gut. You realize that you painted the wrong house! You were incredibly efficient, and horribly ineffective.
So, what does it mean to focus on being more effective? The specific applications vary from time to time and situation to situation. And effectiveness is relative to the other things you could do. For example, what might be the most effective thing to do on Monday, may not rank that high on Tuesday.
However, there are some general guidelines. Effectiveness speaks to the importance of the task. Something is important because it supports your higher values and/or moves you closer to your goals. These two issues can be easily translated into criteria to judge and rank every task. You can express the criteria as questions. So, in sorting through a list of tasks you ask these two questions of the list:
Which of these items most supports my core values?
Which of these items moves me closer to attaining my goals?
The answers will bubble up to the top the one or two things that are most effective. As you can see, before you can determine that something is effective, you must have done some prior work. You can’t, for example, determine if some task brings you closer to your goals if you have no goals.
That’s one of the reasons I recommend a system of creating goals that includes annual goals, monthly increments, and weekly and daily priority lists. You can dig deeper into that here.
The same is true for your core values. You can’t determine if something supports your core values if you don’t know what they are. Taking some dedicated time to identify that which is most important to you is a valuable use of time. It’s always wise to create a written statement that articulates your core values. Putting it on paper forces you to be specific and implies commitment. It then allows you to review it and refine it every few years.
With those two pieces in place, you are able to move from efficiency to effectiveness, turning chaos into control. Apply them with discipline and you’ll have mastered one of the key success strategies of this turbulent world.
Dave Kahle is one of the world's leading sales authorities. He's written twelve books, presented in 47 states and eleven countries, and has helped enrich tens of thousands of sales people and transform hundreds of sales organizations. Sign up for his free weekly Ezine. His book, How to Sell Anything to Anyone Anytime, has been recognized by three international entities as "one of the five best English language business books.” Check out his latest book, The Good Book on Business.
Discounts on select courier services worldwide
Exclusive discounts up to 35% off select FedEx services when shipping within Canada, to the US, or internationally. If you have a FedEx account, simply enroll in this program through the dedicated FedEx webpage that can be found at the member link If not, see the member benefit page for a link to do so View FedEx services at www fedex ca
Introducing member benefit from John Deere ! RVDA of Canada members are now eligible for an upgraded John Deere Rewards membership which unlocks extra discounts on equipment, parts and merchandise. Enroll today! It’s simple , fast & free. Check JohnDeere.ca/rvda
Marks: Discounts (in-store) on select workwear
As your current cards expired, we're offering you an easier way to shop! To receive the discounts, all you need to do is mention the RVDA of Canada account number at check-out. This offer is available at all Mark's stores across Canada. We're still working on extending the program to online purchases so stay tuned. Access the program now through the RVDA of Canada member site
Discounts and offers for top attractions, shows and other entertainment!
Exclusive discounts and offers for all your stay at Home and work from home needs including, Disney+ subscription,Showtime subscription, black Friday pricing for computers/laptops audiobooks and much more! Access the program now through the RVDA of Canada member site.
Perkopolis Member Discount Program
Great perks on everyday products and services! Perkopolis is continuously sourcing exclusive offers and benefits for you! Use your Perkopolis membership to enjoy great savings on entertainment, travel, attractions, shopping, health, wellness, sports and more!
Click here for more information
Petro-Canada SuperPass Credit Card Discount
With use of the Petro-Canada SuperPass credit card, members of Explorer RV Club & RVDA of Canada can realize significant savings, convenience, control & security.
Click here for information / application form & ontact information.
Reserve and Save on Airport Parking Program
With a network that spans coast to coast, Park’N Fly is focused on providing our customers with cost-effective parking options while enjoying a park happy experience with every stay. Access Program
Purolator Member Discount Program
CSAE has negotiated group shipping discounts of up to 55%* on Purolator Shipping Services.Service designed with you in mind! Whether it’s across town or across the country, you’ll get reliable, professional shipping that will satisfy and impress your customers. Access Program
Baseline Processing provides payment solutions and expertise to more than 1,000 merchants across North America including many RVDA of Canada members. Vancouver-based Baseline offers transparent pricing on an RVDA plan pricing that won’t change for the duration of our relationship.
Contact: Hugh Lalande (604) 606-7950)
Website: www.baselineprocessing.com
Chekkit is an all-in-one customer communication platform that brings texting, calling, social messaging, reviews, and webchat into a single, unified inbox. Businesses use Chekkit to respond instantly, automate conversations with AI, manage leads, send quotes and invoices, and deliver consistent 5-star customer experiences at scale. With thousands of businesses across North America relying on Chekkit, we help teams work faster, stay organized, and turn more conversations into revenue.
Contact:Daniel Fayle daniel@chekkit.io
Website: www.chekkit.io
The Corpay brand unifies the domestic U.S. payments solutions Comdata Corporate Payments, Nvoicepay, and Roger with their cross-border payment solutions, Cambridge Global Payments and AFEX, and offers customers the power to more seamlessly connect their finance and AP departments. As part of Corpay, Cambridge’s main goal will be to continue to meet our customers cross-border payments and currency risk management needs.
Contact : Brad Loder at 416-646-6401 Ext:2392 Website : http://cross-
GROUP EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Federated Insurance
Federated Insurance provides customizable Group Employee Benefit coverage. Contact: Western Canada: Reza Kamrani at 1-800-665-1934
PROPERTY & CASUALTY INSURANCE
Federated Insurance Company of Canada provides direct underwriting of Property and Casualty Insurance for RV dealerships. In addition, the Inventory Floor Plan Advantage is available from Federated Insurance for Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) customers. Website: www.federated.ca
CREDITOR INSURANCE /WARRANTY / APPEARANCE PROTECTION / ANTI-THEFT
iA Dealer Services: F&I protection programs including, Creditor's Group Insurance (life, accident & sickness, involuntary unemployment, critical illness), Extended Warranty, Appearance Protection and Theft Deterrent System. An array of dynamic and RV specific F&I training webinars to support your business office. To find out more about iA Dealer Services or to become an iA Dealer Services dealer partner, contact us today. Contact: 1 800 663 9498; email: info.iads@ia.ca Website: www.iadealerservices.ca
KYCS(Keep Your Community Safe),KYCS Global’s state of the art Bluetooth and IoT theft recovery solutions create peace of mind for your customers. KYCS works in partnership with Crime Stoppers to assist in the recovery of RV and Trailer theft. The company’s flagship solution includes KYCS Locate sold exclusively at dealerships. With seamless installation, KYCS Locate is covertly hidden in RVs & Trailers
Contact: Jason Lyall at (289) 230-1833, Email: jlyall@kycs.ca Website: http://www.kycs.ca/
NCM Associates, Inc., help dealers improve management skills, learn best practices, and apply them to your dealership while utilizing detailed proprietary reports and hard intelligence on group and industry trends.
Call: 1.800.756.2620 (US and Canada) Website: info@ncmassociates.com | www.ncmassociates.com
Waterfall Analytics , Canadian Pre-Owned RV sales data and intelligence
Discover the latest trends, insights, and key performance indicators shaping the dynamic landscape of RV sales across the country. Waterfall’s comprehensive reports provide a detailed analysis of the Canadian RV pre-owned market, offering valuable data and actionable intelligence for industry professionals, enthusiasts, and investors. Contact:info@wtrfll.ca Website: https://wtrfll.ca/
Wells Fargo Commercial Distribution Finance (CDF) is a global inventory financing solutions provider with more than 45 years of expertise in the RV industry. Wells Fargo CDF delivers inventory financing solutions, service, and intelligence through indepth expertise and a commitment to customers.
Contact: Charbel Bejjani Tel: (204)255-5965; Cell: (204) 430-6410; Website: www.wellsfargo.com/cdf
program.
News from RVDA
Newsletter Editorial Staff
The RVDA of Canada Member Newsletter is produced and distributed through the national association office : RVDA of Canada, Richmond BC
For Inquiries please contact us at:
#145 – Coppersmith Way Richmond, BC V7A 5J9
Ph: (604) 718-6325
Fax: (604) 204-0154 www.rvda.ca powered by rvhotlinecanada.com
Emails :
Eleonore Hamm, eleonore_hamm@rvda.ca
Anita Lien, anital@rvda.ca
Amee Inocencio, ainocencio@rvda.ca
Post your Positions at www.RVCareers.ca
To post a job, simply go to the employers tab and log in using your RVDA of Canada user name and password.
Contact RVDA of Canada at 604-718-6325 or e-mail if you do not have this
WWW.BUYLOCALRV.CA
RVDA of Canada’s “BUY LOCAL” campaign promotes “Buy your RV close to home. It’s better in the long haul, to consumers.
We encourage you to download a copy of brochure available at the member’s website.
RVDA of Canada Mission Statement:
The RVDA of Canada is a national federation which exists to protect and promote the interests and welfare of RV Dealers across Canada in order to enable the industry to maximize its potential.
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Chairman, Ken Dobson Leisure Time Sales Quispamsis, NB
Vice-Chairman, Marc Rémillard
Centre du Camping Rémillard St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
Treasurer, Peter Schmucker Fraserway RV Lacombe County, AB
Past Chair
Jim Gorrie
Classic Trailer Sales Ltd. Headingley, MB
Directors
John Krohnert Chardell Brydon Platinum RV Sales Jerry's RV Trailer Sales & Service
Jonathan Stone Kyle Kehoe Stone’s RV Center Kehoe RV
Mathieu Hérard Cole O'Connell Roulottes Chaudière Pulse RV
Travis Bromley
Jeff Redmond Transcona Trailer Sales Midtown R.V. Ltd.