Canadian RV and Camping Convention Opens Today

OTTAWA, ON, October 25, 2007, Today, on the opening day of the Canadian RV and Camping Convention, Go RVing Canada responded to the release of statistics reporting that second quarter recreational vehicle (RV) sales were up 12 per cent over 2006 second quarter figures, and up 38 per cent since 2005.

From April to June, nationwide RV sales totaled nearly $1.32 billion, while in 2006, sales for that period were close to $1.18 billion. The sales figures were recently released by Statistics Canada, which reports on RV sales monthly.

“We’re seeing people from all walks of life discover the benefits of RVing,” said Public Relations Director Catherine Fortin LeFaivre. “Last spring was no exception, as our dealers reported the growing popularity of this lifestyle among Canadians through increased sales.”

The highest jump in sales by far was observed in Saskatchewan, which saw its second quarter sales increase 46 per cent from 2006 to 2007. Ontario also saw a large increase, with RV sales augmenting 26 per cent in one year. British Columbia’s second quarter sales rose 17 per cent.

“It’s no secret that our industry is experiencing a great deal of growth as Canadians realize the freedom, fun, flexibility and financial savings associated with the RV lifestyle ,” said Fortin LeFaivre. “We’re also glad to see that this RV enthusiasm is translating into increased tourism dollars spent in Canada which is helping fuel local economies.”

The Canadian RV and Camping Convention, which begins today in Ottawa at the Westin Hotel and runs until Sunday, is put on by the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association, Campgrounds Campings Canada, and the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association of Canada.

This year’s Convention theme is Teaming up for a Better Consumer Experience and will feature a vast array of exhibitors from the dealer, manufacture and camping segments of the RV industry. For more information on the Canadian RV and Camping Convention, please visit www.rvconvention.ca.

The Go RVing coalition was formed in 1997, and consists of RV manufacturers, RV dealers and campground operators.  The coalition serves as the Canadian RV camping industry ambassador to provide the public and media with information about the benefits of RV travel.  The coalition also seeks to enhance consumer information and satisfaction with the RV experience.  For more information please visit GoRVing.ca

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For more information, please contact:

Go RVing Canada Public Relations
Media Hotline: 1.866.470.3528

Catherine Fortin LeFaivre                                                        Alana Fontaine
catherine@impactcanada.com                                           Alana@impactcanada.com