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Northeast Ohio RV Dealers Anticipate First J.D. Power Study

21 July 1998

Northeast Ohio RV Dealers Anticipate First J.D. Power Study

    CLEVELAND, July 20 -- J.D. Power & Associates, a global
leader in industry research, will launch the first-ever proprietary consumer
satisfaction research study of the recreational vehicle (RV) industry this
September.  The study is designed to offer RV manufacturers, dealers and
campground operators the consumer feedback they need to provide the highest
quality of products and services possible as industry growth accelerates with
the launch of the highly successful Go RVing national advertising campaign
launched in 1997.  Results from the J.D. Power research are expected in 1999.
    The J.D. Power research will focus on nearly 30,000 owners of 1997 model
year motorhomes and towables (travel trailers, folding camping trailers and
truck campers) via a mail survey throughout September and October 1998.  Bob
Moore, principal of Moore's Travel Trailers in North Ridgeville and president
of the Great Likes Recreational Vehicle Association feels that the survey will
help identify the level of consumer satisfaction with their purchases.  Moore
says, "From a dealer perspective, we want to maintain the positive growth
trends industry-wide by giving people even more of the quality and flexibility
that make their RV experiences rewarding."  The study comes on the heels of a
20-year record in first-quarter RV shipments and widespread optimism fueled by
the growing baby boomer market for RV travel.  A 1997 University of Michigan
demographic survey confirms the trend, showing RV ownership is up 25 percent
among aging boomers over the past four years.
    The Great Lakes Recreational Vehicle Association is dedicated to
protecting and promoting the recreational vehicle lifestyle in northern Ohio.
Its purpose is to serve its members and enhance industry growth through a wide
variety of programs.