Camper builders catering to buyers
For a long time, campers and RVs have brought comfort to outdoor enjoyment, but one industry expert from Butler County said things are moving even further toward modernization.
“Customers look for modern conveniences and comfort,” said Kathi Raisley, office manager for B & R Camper on Route 422.
Raisley said modernized campers include things like air conditioners, microwaves, power awnings and central vacuums on most standard models.
“All the trailers now come with everything,” she said.
Raisley said almost all standard campers come with at least queen-sized beds, but king-sized are available in some models. She said most families actively seek models with bunk beds and fold-out bedding.
Raisley said deluxe versions come with even more comfort and nonessential items. In deluxe versions, she said customers may find things like Corian countertops, automatic leveling systems and day-night shades, among others.
“More deluxe models, you can work them off your cellular devices,” Raisley said.
While campers have become more equipped, Raisley said the industry leaders have gravitated away from custom jobs with the exception of some tweaks like colors and flooring.
“Custom building a trailer is in the past,” she said.
Bobby Wolf, the owner of the company, said custom order trend was big in the 1980s and '90s.
“Everything now is mass produced,” he said. “The customer can't just come in and alter the floor plan. They normally don't do that because it just takes too long to manufacture when they start doing stuff like that.”
Wolf said one of the bigger changes in campers is the technology.
“Everything now has computer chips in them,” he said. “It's all touch button.”
Wolf said the best example of the difference is in the television, which have gotten slimmer and larger in the screen. He said big screen TVs aren't impossible.
“If they can fit it in there, they're going to put it in,” he said.
Raisley said sales have maintained a steady balance, despite the lack of customization and economic fluctuations.
“The economy does not seem to be affecting what people are buying,” she said. “Camping is not a need, it is a want.”
When shopping for a camper, Raisley said not to shy away from used models because many have the same modern amenities as do the newer models. She said it's a good idea to know what types of amenities are wanted in a trailer, adding that she has also seen people change their minds after viewing all their options.
Raisley said the customer's biggest decision is to start looking and see where the search leads them.
“It all just depends on personal preference on what the customer wants,” she said. “It's what the customer wants.”
