RVBusiness Top 50 Dealer Awards candidates were first nominated by the manufacturers they represent based on dealers’ professionalism as well as sales acumen. Dealers then submitted extensive applications providing input on both quantitative and qualitative matters regarding their operations.
Congratulation to MARVAC Members who have received this honor:
• American RV Sales & Service, Grand Rapids, Mich.
• General RV Centers, Wixom, Mich.
• Veurinks’ RV Center, Grand Rapids, Mich.
Read the full story HERE
David West Named Vice President of Travel Michigan
LANSING – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today David West has been named Vice President of Travel Michigan. West, a Michigan native, will be responsible for heading up the state’s tourism branding, advertising and public relations efforts and overseeing the award-winning Pure Michigan tourism campaign.
“Michigan has something for everyone – from vibrant cities to spectacular outdoor opportunities. Our Pure Michigan travel campaign is the envy of travel campaigns worldwide, and has helped to drive record leisure travel spending in Michigan, expanding the industry’s economic impact throughout the state,” said Governor Rick Snyder.
“David’s experience and enthusiasm will keep this momentum moving forward and help us to further expand the growth of tourism here in Michigan.”
West is a nationally recognized leader in the tourism industry, and in 2011 was named one of the Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Sales and Marketing by the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI). He has also received two Destiny Awards from the US Travel Association and numerous Adrian Awards through HSMAI for social media and marketing campaigns he has led. West, who grew up in East Lansing and attended both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, is returning to Michigan with a strong background in research and destination marketing.
“David’s understanding of the economic impact of tourism, combined with his passion for cutting-edge marketing will be a tremendous asset as we continued to build Michigan’s national and international travel profile,” said Michael A. Finney, president and CEO of the MEDC.
Currently serving as Vice President of Pocono Mountains Visitor Bureau, West’s duties as Vice President of Travel Michigan will take effect December 1, 2014. The Pocono Mountains are a favorite destination for outdoor adventure and resorts for tourists, located 1.5 hours from New York City and Philadelphia. West now will be responsible for managing the tourism branding and marketing program for Pure Michigan, working with the state tourism industry on state-led initiatives and building business relationships and helping to execute MEDC’s overall strategic plan to grow jobs and the economy in Michigan.
“I am thrilled to be coming home and having the opportunity to be a part of a team growing the Pure Michigan brand,” West said. “While it’s been a successful campaign to date, there is more we can do to bring visitors, including international visitors, to our world-class cities, outdoor areas and attractions.”
In 2013, overall travel spending in Michigan hit $18.7 billion with a record $13.8 billion in leisure travel spending. According to Longwoods International, $1.2 billion in out-of-state visitor spending in 2013 was a direct result of the Pure Michigan campaign.
25th Annual Fall Detroit Camper & RV Show a Success
After one year visits to Cobo Hall and the Pontiac Silverdome, the Fall Detroit Camper & RV Show found a permanent home in Novi, MI, a northwest suburb of metro Detroit in 1991. It has been there for the past 23 years and maintains its position in a rotation of five Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds sponsored RV shows located throughout the state. The first week of October was the twenty-fifth time MARVAC hosted and produced a fall display of MARVAC member’s RV products and campground information for RV enthusiasts.
This year’s attendance was over 12,000 people who had the opportunity to inspect new 2015 recreational vehicles and take advantage of special discounts on remaining 2014 models. This year’s show saw a larger than usual concentration of motor homes and fifth-wheel travel trailers, both of which are very popular with those individuals commonly known as “snow birds”. Many retirees have found the RV lifestyle an affordable way to travel in the winter months to warmer climates and escape the Michigan winters. As the “baby boomer” generation continues to grow, MARVAC member dealers report seeing more and more sales of these more spacious and amenity filled units to satisfy their retirement living needs.
Future MARVAC shows will take place in February and March of 2015. For more information, check out the association websitewww.marvac.org or contact a staff member at the association office in Okemos. (517) 349-8881.
Now Selling 2015 RV & Campsite Ads
Don’t miss this opportunity to reach over 100,000 campers and RVers! For 24 years, RV & Campsite has been Michigan’s most comprehensive guide for campers and RVers. Consumers actively look for RV & Campsite at the 14 Michigan Welcome Centers, MARVAC’s 5 Camper & RV shows, state (DNR) and private campgrounds and in many of your business locations. The digital book is always available at www.marvac.org . Rates start at just $370.
MARVAC’s official consumer publication, RV & Campsite, is the only publication focusing exclusively on camping and RVing in Michigan. Consumers will learn about the camping and RVing lifestyle, as well as places to visit in Michigan. Readers will also enjoy the consumer-friendly directory, complete with maps and amenities tables.
Don’t delay, prime positions will go fast! Go to marvac.org to view the2015 rate card, or contact Kim Amesbury atkamesbury@comcast.net or 616.291.1008 and reserve your ad today!
RECRUIT A NEW MEMBER!
As a member, you understand the value of MARVAC membership. Spread the word with your contacts and peers in the industry, and help expand our association. A growing MARVAC means greater recognition for the industry, more resources to support member programs, and a stronger voice when advocating issues with state and national legislative members. Click here to download a membership application.
