Leading American recreational vehicle producer Winnebago Industries has announced it will be undertaking targeted manufacturing adjustments across two of its RV brands as part of a wider plan to enhance its overall operational efficiency.

The changes will see the towable RV production of the Winnebago brand relocate to the nearby production facilities of Grand Design RV in Middlebury, Indiana – a move that Winnebago Industries says will provide access to a modern manufacturing environment and available capacity to support future growth.

Separately, the Winnebago motorhome business will relocate production of its B-Van product line from Lake Mills, Iowa, to its primary manufacturing facility in Forest City, Iowa. This decision is aimed at bringing key manufacturing functions together in a single complex and strengthening coordination across the business, according to Winnebago Industries.

Both the Winnebago Towables campus in Middlebury, Indiana and the Winnebago Motorhome facility in Lake Mills, Iowa, will be closed and offered for sale at a later date.

“Winnebago Industries is focused on building a stronger and more agile enterprise for the future,” said Michael Happe, President and Chief Executive Officer of Winnebago Industries. “These actions reflect our commitment to thoughtfully managing our manufacturing footprint, leveraging the strengths of our portfolio and deploying resources where they can create the greatest value. By taking proactive steps today, we are strengthening our ability to serve customers, support dealers and drive long-term growth across our brands.”

Despite collocating some production facilities, Winnebago Towables and Grand Design will remain distinct businesses, with Winnebago Industries emphasising that each brand will continue to maintain its own leadership team, product development, sales, dealers and product portfolio, and no product lines are being discontinued as a result of these actions.

“One of the advantages of our parent company is the ability to leverage the strengths of each business while preserving what makes every brand unique,” said Don Clark, Group President of Winnebago Industries’ Towables segment and president of Grand Design RV. “These moves allow us to better utilise available capacity while maintaining the culture, customer focus and brand identity that have made Grand Design successful. At the same time, it provides Winnebago Towables with additional resources and a stronger platform for future growth. These brands remain independent, but united in their effort to help more people enjoy their time outdoors.”

Meanwhile, Chris West, President of the Winnebago brand, added: “For the Winnebago motorhome business, bringing more of our manufacturing expertise together in Forest City creates a stronger operating foundation and better positions us for the future. By combining talent, production capabilities and key manufacturing functions in one location, we can improve coordination, strengthen execution and continue delivering the quality and innovation our dealers and customers expect.”

Image: Winnebago Industries