|
The Recreational
Vehicle Industry Association reported wholesale shipments of 12,500
units in March, down 58.5% from the same period in 2008. While RV
sales continue to be down significantly year-on-year, we continue to signs of a bottom in wholesale shipments. However, this is
also the time of year manufacturers gear up for the Spring and Summer
shows so the increase may not reflect an uptick in retail demand.
According to the RVIA:
"As the current recession is expected to affect all sectors of the
economy, RV shipments are expected to be lower in 2009 as well. Credit
restrictions are causing RV buyers to delay purchases and RV dealers to
keep inventories low. Sales in 2009 will be affected by stringent credit
standards, falling employment, and continued declines in household
wealth and home prices. Dr. Curtin predicts 2009 shipments will total
130,100." We have seasonally spread the shipments over twelve months
(see chart below) and compare it with actual shipments from 2006 through
2008.
RV Investor has forecast wholesale
shipments below 100,000 in 2009 making it the worst year since 1980.
That translates to a retail sales value of below $5 billion, well below
the industry peak of $14.7 billion of 2006, assuming average sales
prices remain flat. The wildcard is dealer inventories as we believe
they are significantly bloated at this time. |
|