Rumors, which first began circulating late last week that National RV Supply Co. was closing its doors to the public, were confirmed today (Oct. 30) by a message on the company website.
“Effective Friday October 27th, 2017, the centralized wholesale capability offered by National RV Supply company will discontinue service directly to the public.
“Any orders that have been placed through Friday, including special orders, will be fulfilled. If you have any questions about orders that are in process please contact: wholesale@campingworld.com.
“Wholesale product pricing and service will continue to be offered at your local Camping World location. To find the nearest store, please go to campingworld.com. We appreciate all of your business and thank you for the opportunity. We look forward to serving you in the future.”
National RV Supply Co. made headlines in early January of 2016 when it was announced the sister division of mega-retailer Camping World would seek to do business with independent RV dealers in addition to its 135-odd Camping World locations.
That news came on the heels of the 2014-2015 acquisitions of the top three RV distributors – NTP Distribution Inc., Stag-Parkway Inc., and The Coast Distribution System Inc. – by LKQ Corp. and its Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. division.
National RV Supply officials said at the time that private RV dealers would welcome the choice to do business with National RV Supply despite its Camping World affiliation because it would offer competitive prices and a reliable supply chain and distribution.
National RV Supply Co. already had a distribution network in place – and would add to it over the coming months with the January 2016 acquisition of southern regional distributor Lightning RV Supply, and the July 2016 opening of a 200,000-square-foot distribution center in Dallas – was further evidence it could be a viable alternative to the rapidly consolidated RV parts and accessories aftermarket distribution segment, company officials said at the time.
However, dealers began telling RVBUSINESS.com last week that their National RV Supply contacts were saying company operations would cease at any time.
National RV Supply officials were not available for comment.
