Gander RV and Camping World are two big names in the RV industry. Many people wonder if they are the same company. The answer is yes. Gander RV became part of Camping World in 2017. Camping World bought Gander RV to expand its business.
Camping World is the largest RV retailer in the U.S. It sells RVs, parts, and accessories. It also offers RV services and camping gear. Gander RV was a smaller chain before the buyout. Now, it operates under the Camping World umbrella.
The History of Gander RV
Gander RV started as Gander Mountain. Gander Mountain was an outdoor retail store. It sold camping gear, hunting equipment, and fishing supplies. In 2017, Gander Mountain went bankrupt. Camping World saw an opportunity. It bought some Gander Mountain stores and turned them into Gander RV outlets.
The first Gander RV store opened in 2017. It was in Lakeville, Minnesota. Since then, Camping World has opened more Gander RV locations. These stores focus on RV sales and services. They also sell some camping and outdoor products.
Camping World’s Expansion Strategy
Camping World has grown a lot in recent years. Buying Gander RV was part of this growth. The company wanted to reach more customers. Gander RV stores helped Camping World enter new markets.
Camping World also bought other RV dealers. These include Uncle Dan’s and Rocklin RV. The goal is to have stores in every major U.S. market. Gander RV plays a key role in this plan.
How Gander RV Fits Into Camping World
Gander RV stores operate like Camping World stores. They sell new and used RVs. They also offer RV parts, service, and financing. The main difference is the name. Some Gander RV stores are smaller than Camping World locations. But they provide the same basic services.
Camping World uses the Gander RV name in some areas. This helps avoid confusion with existing Camping World stores. It also keeps the Gander brand alive in those markets.
Products and Services Offered
Both Gander RV and Camping World offer:
- New and used RV sales
- RV rentals
- RV service and repairs
- RV parts and accessories
- Extended warranties
- Financing options
Some locations also sell:
- Camping gear
- Outdoor apparel
- Hunting and fishing equipment
The product mix varies by store. Larger locations tend to have more inventory. Smaller stores may focus just on RVs.
Customer Experience at Gander RV
Shopping at Gander RV is like shopping at Camping World. The sales process is the same. Customers can browse RVs on the lot. Sales staff help them find the right model. Financing options are available for those who qualify.
Service centers at Gander RV locations work the same way too. Customers can schedule maintenance or repairs. Many stores have certified technicians on staff. Some offer mobile RV service as well.
The Benefits of the Merger
The Camping World-Gander RV merger has benefits for customers:
- More locations to buy RVs
- Better access to RV services
- More inventory options
- Consistent pricing and policies
- Stronger warranty support
For Camping World, the benefits include:
- Increased market share
- More brand recognition
- Higher sales volume
- Better economies of scale
Potential Drawbacks
Some customers have noticed downsides:
- Less competition in some markets
- Fewer small, local RV dealers
- Possible reduction in personalized service
- Some stores may feel too corporate
However, many RV buyers appreciate the convenience. Having a national chain means consistent service across locations.
Gander RV’s Current Status
As of 2024, Gander RV continues to operate under Camping World. The company has not announced plans to phase out the name. Some locations may rebrand as Camping World in the future. But for now, Gander RV remains part of the network.
The number of Gander RV stores changes over time. Camping World opens and closes locations based on market conditions. The company’s website lists current store locations.
How to Choose Between Gander RV and Camping World
For most customers, there’s little difference. The choice depends on:
- Which store is closer
- Which has the RV model you want
- Which offers better pricing or promotions
- Which has better reviews in your area
It’s worth checking both if you have options. Sometimes inventory varies between locations.
The Future of Gander RV
Camping World continues to evolve. The company may keep the Gander RV name in some markets. In others, it may transition to the Camping World brand. Either way, the stores will likely keep offering similar products and services.
The RV industry has grown since the pandemic. More people are buying RVs for travel and camping. This trend benefits both Gander RV and Camping World. Expect to see more locations and services in coming years.
Conclusion
Gander RV is indeed part of Camping World. The merger has created a larger RV retail network. Customers benefit from more choices and locations. While the names may differ, the shopping experience is similar. Both brands aim to make RV ownership easier and more enjoyable.
Whether you visit a Gander RV or Camping World store, you’ll find knowledgeable staff. They can help you choose the right RV for your needs. They can also provide ongoing service and support. For RV enthusiasts, this means better access to everything the lifestyle requires.
The next time you see a Gander RV location, remember it’s part of the Camping World family. This connection means you’re dealing with an established, nationwide company. That can bring peace of mind when making such a major purchase.
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