Grand Packaging Introduces First-Ever RV Sauna

Relaxing Infrared-Heated Sauna Units Provide Coachbuilders with New Luxury Option

WAYLAND, Mich., Nov. 28 -- Grand Packaging, Inc. today introduced a new luxury amenity traditionally available only at expensive health centers and five-star hotels -- the first-ever, compact, deep-heat sauna unit specifically designed for recreational vehicles (RVs). The patented Grand RV Sauna will be introduced during the 44th Annual National RV Trade Show (RVIA) in Louisville, Ky., on Tuesday, Nov. 28th. (RBW Booth # 709, 711, 713)

The Grand RV Sauna is installed in an area the size of an average RV closet. The innovative unit uses a self-venting, infrared dry-heating element as a safe alternative to traditional fire or steam-heated saunas. Its quick- heating technology creates an environment of up to 150 degrees in approximately 15 minutes, and auto-venting double French doors ensure minimal heat loss during use. When not in use, the sauna unit easily converts to a convenient storage space.

Grand Packaging's new RV Sauna reflects a trend among RV owners toward greater on-board luxury, as well as an increasing awareness among health- conscious Americans of the restorative powers of infrared heat therapy. Saunas have historically been used to treat ailments from rheumatoid arthritis to soft-tissue cancers.

"RV owners place a high value on luxury and relaxation during their leisure experiences," said Andre Levesque, president of Grand Packaging. "The Grand RV Sauna gives owners a spa-like environment everywhere their travels take them," he said. "And from the manufacturer's perspective, closets are not typically marketable spaces in an RV, but the Grand RV Sauna offers the option of a new, value-added amenity while maintaining the utility of a closet."

The Grand RV Sauna will be available as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) option at the beginning of 2007, from some of the top RV manufacturers in the United States, including DoubleTree (Mobile Suites and Elite Fifth Wheel Series units), Dutchman/Thor (Grand Junction Series Fifth Wheels) Gulf Stream (Tour Master class A), and Chariot Eagle Park models. Units come in single or double-occupancy and are made from clear white wood that is virtually hypoallergenic. The Grand RV Sauna retails for $4,000-$5,000, based on the manufacturer and model selected. All four of the RV manufacturers will feature Grand RV Saunas in coaches on display at the RVIA show.

"More consumers are searching for new ways to relax while using their RV, and we are always interested in the next best product that will add value to a vehicle," said Matt Buckman, General Manager at Dutchmen's Colorado and Grand Junction group. "Grand Packaging has found an innovative way to repackage a traditional closet space to create a new and enjoyable experience for every RV owner."

A 2005 study issued by the University of Michigan's Survey Research Center indicated that nearly 8 million U.S. households own at least one RV -- a 15 percent increase during the past four years, and a 58 percent rise since 1980. A key force behind the upswing in RV ownership is the aging of the baby-boomer generation, supported by strong ownership gains among younger and older buyers as well. In fact, high rates of RV ownership today extend across a 40-year demographic span from age 35 to 75, the study found.