2023 August Newsletter-EN

Chairman’s Column

Dear members,

The RVDA of Canada Board held its last meeting in July. We discussed how the RV industry continues to be a cornerstone of our economy, providing not only a means of travel and adventure but also countless job opportunities and economic growth.

As we all know, the recent economic downturn has posed significant challenges to our industry. Rising costs and shifting consumer expectations have created a complex landscape that necessitates a strong and unified front. That is precisely why our association is more important now than ever before. In times of uncertainty, we must come together to support one another, share insights, and collectively find solutions to the issues that we face.

Our association serves as a platform for collaboration, education, and advocacy, enabling us to navigate these turbulent waters and emerge stronger as a united front. And while dealers are busy assisting consumers in fulfilling their RV lifestyle dream, the RVDA of Canada continues to work on numerous strategies to assist our members in maximizing their potential.

One of these endeavours is ensuring that we participate in the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance pre -budget consultations process for the year. This process provides us with a great opportunity to convey our priorities for the government’s upcoming budget.

This year, we focused on 3 areas of interest. The RVDA of Canada recommended the following:

• That the federal government commit to increasing support to Skilled Workers. This will require investments in education, tax breaks for students and grants to help support the development of a more educated workforce.

• That the federal government increase it investments in our National Parks by increasing the development of infrastructure and support for the Tourism Industry across Canada.

• That the federal government must continue to provide financial support to increase electrical infrastructure in rural areas by providing financing and grants to businesses that are investing in the EV infrastructure.

Chairman’s Column

I also want to highlight some of the changes to the Canadian Competition Act. You will find a complete update in Page 6 of the newsletter but please be award that there have been changes made to the Competition Act and Drip Pricing. RV dealers in Canada should be aware of the new regulations regarding pricing practices. The amendment introduces criminal and civil prohibitions against Drip Pricing in the RV industry. It is crucial for RV dealers who advertise prices online or through third parties to ensure that the advertised prices include all charges. Failure to comply with the Act may result in penalties of up to 3% of annual worldwide gross revenues and significant expenses associated with enforcement proceedings. It is advised for RV dealers to consult with their legal advisors and review their advertising and compliance practices to ensure compliance with the new regulations.

Earlier this summer, the RVDA of Canada awarded $12,000 in bursaries to RVDA RV Service Technicians and Fixed Operation Personnel across Canada. The bursaries, sponsored by NTP-Stag Canada, valued at $1500, $1000, and $500, were created to recognize outstanding achievements by students with serious interest and desire to succeed in the RV industry. We would like to thank all of the applicants for their submissions and while there were more applicants than bursaries awarded, we would like to encourage all personnel to continue investing in their education.

Warm regards,

Josée Bédard, Board Chair RVDA of Canada

Canadian retail sales statistics are now available for both motorized and towable recreational vehicles.

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 – please contact Scott Stropkai of Statistical Surveys Inc. at 616-281-9898 ext 128 or sstropkai@statisticalsurveys.com

To learn more about Statistical Surveys Inc., visit www.statisticalsurveys.com

Canadian National RV Retail Statistics June 2023

Elite Insurance Company is a subsidiary of Aviva Canada Inc., one of the leading Property and Casualty insurance groups in Canada which provides insurance protection to more than 3 million 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

2023 First Quarter Economic Review

RVDA of Canada

The 2023 First Quarter Economic Review is intended to deliver a comprehensive look at the economic indicators affecting the RV Industry in Canada. These products are intended to provide members with current economic information, which can assist them in gaining insights into the changing economic dimensions of the RV industry and the economy at large.

Download this report on RVDA of Canada member site under Member services / Industry Relations tabs (login required)

Top Ways You Can Set Yourself Apart from Your Competitors and Build Brand Awareness

Become a Thought Leader: Easy Way to Increase Your Brand Awareness by Leveraging Your Expertise on Social Media

Top 5 Things Your Website Must Have to Increase Sales and Inquiries

Why You Need a Crisis Communications Plan

Making it with the Media: How to Leverage Earned Media to Reach Your Sales Targets and Goals

In today's fast-changing work environment, businesses are noticing a big shift. The younger generation, known as Generation Z or Gen Z, is becoming a part of the workforce.

The torch of generational influence is moving from the older baby boomers to millennials and Gen Z. This change is causing noticeable differences in the way things work. Experts predict that Gen Z will become more numerous than millennials in the workplace by 2045. This means that employers need to understand the unique characteristics, dreams, and priorities that define this generation.

In this article, we'll explore what you should understand about Gen Z workers. We'll also look into how to create a balanced work environment that meets their needs.

theriseofgenz

Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, are digital natives. They grew up in a world filled with alwayschanging technologies. And they are more connected than previous generations. What else do we know about them?

they're practical and realistic

Gen Z is the first generation to come of age after significant events. They experienced 9/11, the great recession or a global pandemic. These events have shaped their view of the world. For them, job security is a top priority when it comes to choosing a future employer.

Many Gen Zers grew up during times when money was scarce, and the adults around them were facing financial challenges.

As a result, they're cautious about taking risks. They hold a more traditional outlook compared to Millennials who grew up in the prosperous 90s and early 2000s, when they were encouraged to pursue unconventional paths to achieve their dreams.

These young workers are more interested in pursuing stable, traditional jobs like office work. In fact, 36% of Gen Zers expressed a preference for working in an office. And with the advent of remote work, many of them have adopted it.

They prefer non-traditional work arrangements. In particular, those that allow them to work from home, set flexible hours, wear casual attire, or travel frequently.

Would you like to know more about what Gen z employees wants? Download our research on what talent wants.

they value education

Gen Z is following a traditional education path. They are poised to become the most educated generation in history.

They strongly believe in the importance of higher education and view obtaining a degree as the best route to securing a stable, well-paying job.

Approximately 59% of Gen Z has pursued or is on track to complete a post-secondary education, compared to 53% of Millennials and 44% of Gen Xers.

they embrace diversity

Gen Z is the most diverse generation in terms of race and culture in history. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half (48%) of Gen Zers identify as non-Caucasian. This contrasts with earlier generations: Millennials (44%), Gen Xers (30%), and Baby Boomers (18%).

It's highly likely that in the generation succeeding Gen Z, Caucasians will be in the minority for the first time.

Younger generations have grown up in an environment where diversity is the norm, influencing their perspectives, politics, and interactions with people from different backgrounds.

valuesandpriorities

Younger workers put a lot of importance on ethics, social responsibility, and values. An impressive 80% of Gen Z prioritize finding a job that aligns with their values and interests, compared to 59% of Millennials.

This shows how crucial it is to create a workplace culture that matches their beliefs.

flexibilityandwork-lifebalance

Flexibility is really important to Gen Z. More than half of them value work arrangements that offer flexibility, like remote work and time off.

They want work to be part of their lives, and this comes from their comfort with technology. They can handle many tasks at once and communicate well in a digital world.

diversityandinclusionadvocates

Gen Z is really committed to fairness, diversity, and inclusion. About 59% of them think it's really important.

Employers who support these values will attract them because they want a workplace that's fair and inclusive.

personalfreedomandbeingunique

Gen Z workers want personal freedom, privacy, and self-expression. They like to be themselves and appreciate different viewpoints.

Employers who aim to attract and retain Gen Z workers should think about providing a work environment that prioritizes psychological safety.

thinkinglong-termanddevelopingskills

Even though they're young, Gen Z is focused on stability and their future careers. They want to learn new skills and build a strong foundation for their careers.

buildingamulti-generationalworkplace

Understanding what Gen Z wants is important, but it's also good to know that there are things all generations value.

People of all ages want fair pay, chances to grow in their careers, flexible work setups, and meaningful work.

Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, companies should create a plan that fits individual needs.

makingthejob offerspecial

Instead of only focusing on the differences between generations, companies should make a job offer that speaks to everyone's desires.

By respecting the differences in what people want at different stages of life, organizations can make a fulfilling work environment for everyone.

In short, Gen Z workers have unique qualities and dreams. Their focus on ethics, diversity, personal expression, and digital skills means companies need to change their strategies.

But by understanding what all generations value and making a work environment that fits different needs, businesses can create a balanced workplace that attracts, keeps, and engages people of all ages.

Download the white paper on the employability of young individuals, focusing on sustainable growth, their distinctive workplace contributions, and how employers can align with their values and expectations.

Adapted from Randstad Workplace Insights

Ends August 31, 2023

Will Self-Delusion Be Our End?

by Dave Kahle

In recent months I’ve become acutely aware of our unlimited capacity to live in self-delusion, and the specter of catastrophe that accompanies it.

It’s not like I didn’t know that before. But it was relegated to that realm of below -the-conscious awareness. Sort of like the bougainvillea’s in our front yard. They silently and steadily grow until their thorny branches interfere with our passing by. I knew they were there, slowing encroaching on all the space around them. At some point they take up so much space that I couldn’t ignore them anymore.

So, it is with self-delusion. It’s a part of the human condition that extends back to the Garden of Eden. It’s always been there. But, it seems to have seeped into almost every area of our lives and become the accepted habit for much of the culture. Self-delusion is proliferating in our culture.

Do you watch American Idol? In some of the early auditions, it is clear to everyone that some of the contestants have no business trying to sing. They just don’t have it. Yet, after they are told that by the judges, they often accuse the judges of ignorance. They really are talented, they tell themselves, it’s everyone else who is wrong. And so, they waste time and energy on an endeavor fated to fail. Their shortcoming is covered by self-delusion.

Some years ago, a similarly themed TV contest encouraged inventors to have their inventions judged by professionals. One contestant had created an expensive board game. At a time when video games where more interesting, more challenging and cheaper, he had invested his life saving into this concept, and was living in a car, funneling all his energy and resources into developing it. It was a good idea for a different time and fated for failure in his lifetime. Yet, in spite of the flaws the judges pointed out, he was convinced that his invention was viable. Self-delusion ruled his life.

In a more professional setting, I was struck by the self-delusion in a board of directors for one of my clients. When confronted with the evidence that only one of their top ten customers was profitable, they shelved the report and pretended it didn’t exist. Better to delude ourselves then to confront the implications of the truth.

While we can all point to self-delusion operating in some of those around us, the real danger occurs when it becomes part of the culture and infects the majority of people.

I’m afraid that is happening today. Self-delusion is everywhere. I see it in the politicians who made decisions that impact our lives. It is easier to pretend the world is on their side then to face the truth of the real positions of their constituents.

I see in the anonymous social media adherents who rush to judgement because the mob shouts labels like ”racist” and “fascist” with absolutely no evidence. They delude themselves by characterizing people into categories, and then condemning that category. That’s easier and more fun than actually uncovering the truth.

I see it in what we used to call ‘news media” and ‘journalists,” who routinely choose to bury stories that don’t fit their agenda. They choose to cover only the stories that support pre-exiting agendas or present such a one-sided perspective that it impossible to ferret out the truth from their rendition. Since it doesn’t fit their pre-existing agenda, they pretend it doesn’t exist. Or, lacking any concern for the truth, refuse to investigate anything beyond the superficial. That’s an everyday example of self-delusion, coupled with intentional delusion. They delude themselves into thinking that they somehow have wiser insight into what is important than others.

I could go on and on, but you get the idea. Self-delusion is ubiquitous in our culture, operating at every level, and proliferating daily.

Consequences

Self-delusion always results in wasted time and energy. The American Idol hopefuls will waste time and energy on a dream they have no likelihood of realizing. The inventor will have thrown the better part of his life way wrapped in the cocoon of self-delusion.

My board of directions had, a few months previously, endorsed a proposal to build a new 300,000 square foot warehouse. The implications of the truth on that previous decision were too big to handle. Rather than untangle the implications, it was easier to pretend the truth didn’t exist. Self-delusion allowed them to be comfortable for a while. Ultimately, the consequences of the truth will catch up with them, and their business will be threatened because of their adherence to self-delusion.

The deluded social media followers will have caused incalculable damage to undeserving people, while wasting their own time and energy – resources which could have been better investing in producing something positive.

Self-delusion, when it operates at a serious and broader level, wastes lives and destroys family and cultures. It continues unabated because the process of acknowledging the truth and its consequences is often uncomfortable. It’s easier and less demanding to continue in self-delusion than it is to view reality more clearly. We have often invested so much of our energy and ego into the delusion that we find it difficult to walk away from a mistake of that size. It’s just easier to remain in the lie.

To challenge a commonly-held delusion takes courage, strength of character and independent thinking – all characteristics that seem to be in dwindling supply.

This growing tendency to delude ourselves, to accept and promote lies, does not portend well for this civilization. Just like in individual lives delusion leads to wasted lives, so too delusion on a larger scale lead to more wasted lives and maybe even, a civilization lost.

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

SEE WHAT’S TRENDING

Great perks on everyday products and services through Canada’s leading employee perk Program!

At Perkopolis, we are continuouslysourcing exclusive offers and benefits for you! Use your Perkopolis membership to enjoy great savings on the entertainment, travel, attractions, shopping, health & wellness, sports and more!

Sign up today!

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.

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

RVDA of Canada

# 145-11331 Coppersmith Way, Richmond, BC V7A 5J9 Phone (604) 718-6325 Fax (604) 204-0154

RVDA MEMBER DISCOUNT

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

TheCorpaybrandunifiesthedomesticU.S.paymentssolutions Comdata Corporate Payments,Nvoicepay,andRoger withtheir cross-borderpayment solutions,CambridgeGlobalPaymentsandAFEX,andofferscustomersthepowertomoreseamlessly connecttheirfinanceandAPdepartments.AspartofCorpay, Cambridge’smaingoalwill betocontinuetomeetourcustomerscross-border paymentsandcurrencyriskmanagementneeds.

Contact :BradLoderat416-646-6401Ext:2392

Website:http://cross-border.corpay.com/rvda-canada/

GROUP EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Federated Insurance

Federated Insurance provides customizable Group Employee Benefit coverage. Contact:

Western Canada: Wayne Budge at 1-800-665-1934

Eastern Canada: Mauro Di Tullio at 1-800-361-0790

Website: www.federated.ca

PROPERTY& CASUALTYINSURANCE

Federated Insurance Companyof Canada providesdirect underwriting of Property and CasualtyInsurance for RV dealerships In addition, the InventoryFloor Plan Advantageis available from FederatedInsurance for CommercialDistribution Finance (CDF) customers.

Website: www.federated.ca

CREDITORINSURANCE/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.

1 855 725-6584 info.iads@ia.ca Website: www.iadealerservices.ca

KYCS(KeepYourCommunitySafe),KYCSGlobal’sstateoftheartBluetoothandIoT theftrecoverysolutionscreatepeaceofmindforyourcustomers.KYCSworksinpartnershipwithCrimeStopperstoassistintherecoveryofRVandTrailertheft.Thecompany’s flagshipsolutionincludesKYCSLocatesoldexclusivelyatdealerships.Withseamless installation,KYCSLocateiscovertlyhiddeninRVs&Trailers

Contact:JasonLyallat(289)230-1833, Email:jlyall@kycs.ca

DriveOnProtectionforPermaSealTireSealant,utilizesthelatestnanotechnologyto createtheonlygreen,watersoluble,permanentfixtiresealantavailabletoday.Itisaproductsounique;itbringsanewsolutiontotirepressuremaintenanceproblems.

Contact:PeterHucul Tel:(604)787-0225

Website:www.permasealglobal.com

PURIFYD®SYSTEMSeliminatesthebuild-upofenvironmentalcontaminantsandbiologicalpathogensthatcontinuallyoccursinsidethelivingspacesinwhichpeoplelive,work andtravel.Foryourcustomers,youprovideavaluableservicethatenhancestheirexperiencewithyourdealershipandkeepsthemcomingbackfortreatments.Yourbusiness benefitsfromnewrevenueandgrossprofitstreamsinSales,Rentals,Serviceand theBusinessOffice.

Contact :StephenDunnat(604)230-5175 Website:www.getpurifyd.com/

RVDA/Spader20Groups,managedbytheSpaderCompanies,helpdealersimprove managementskills,learnbestpracticesand applythemtoyourdealershipwhileutilizing detailedproprietaryreportsandhardintelligenceongroupandindustrytrends.

Call:1.800.772.3377(USandCanada) info@spader.com

Website:https://spader.com

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 in-depth expertise and a commitment to customers.

Contact: Ed Ristau Tel: (204)255-5965; Cell: (204) 430-6410; Website: www.wellsfargo.com/cdf

Fully interactive and easy to navigate, the course is an ideal way to jump start the knowledge base of new employees or provide a refresher for more experienced fixed operations professionals. Modules reinforce the customer service skill sets service writers/advisors are required to perform every day.

The course concludes with a comprehensive final assessment to test knowledge and skills learned in the course. The course is excellent preparation for the RV Learning Center’s Service Writer/Advisor Certification Test, which is separate from the online training program.

Service writer/advisor online training available through the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.

Developed by RV industry service management experts, the online course is divided into training modules covering a variety of topics including managing appointments and workflow, generating additional revenue, and enhancing communication with customers.

The RV Learning Center partnered with The Ohio State University’s Center for Education and Training for Employment have developed Certifications, Competency Profiles, and instructional materials in the following areas:

 Service Manager

 Service Writer/Advisor



More New Online Courses

The Mike Molino RV Learning Center continues to add to its curriculum online courses designed to help dealers and fixed operations meet the needs of a new generation of customers.

 The Parts Specialist online course

 Parts Manager Online Course

WarrantyAdministrator

 Parts Manager

 Parts Specialist

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 information.

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.

RVDAof 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, Josée Bédard Roulottes Chaudière Lévis, Quebec

Vice-Chairman, Dale Hopkins RV City Morinville, AB

Treasurer, Jim Gorrie Classic Trailer Sales Ltd. Headingley, MB

Past Chairman, Gord Bragg

Hub City RV Lantzville, BC

Directors

John Krohnert

Ken Dobson Platinum RV Sales Leisure Time Sales

Jonathan Stone

Kyle Kehoe Stone’s RV Center Kehoe RV

Marc Rémillard

Peter Schmucker Centre du Camping Rémillard Fraserway RV (Lacombe)

Ward Fraser

Travis Bromley Voyager R.V.Centre Ltd. Transcona Trailer Sales