Family RV

Status:
Exited
Website:
www.familyrvgroup.com

In January 2016, KCO made a control investment in Colerain RV in partnership with the Company’s ownership/management team, while simultaneously acquiring Northside RVs, the largest dealership in Kentucky. In March 2021, KCO sold Family RV to RV Retailer.

Thesis

The RV industry represented a growing segment within the U.S. travel and tourism market.  There were several macro factors that contributed to the sustained industry growth, namely 1) the aging population, 2) the allure of living a more active and outdoor lifestyle, 3) the rise in employment levels and disposable income, 4) relatively low fuel prices, and 5) the freedom, flexibility and versatility that come with owing an RV.   The RV dealership industry was very fragmented and represented many opportunities for accretive tuck-in acquisitions to the initial platform.

Company

Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, Colerain was a family owned and operated RV dealership, providing sales of new and used RVs, related services, parts and accessories for RV owners and camping enthusiasts. Northside RV’s was founded by Gary Ecklar in Lexington, Kentucky in 1979 and grew to become the largest RV dealership in Kentucky.  Together with Northside, Colerain operated five dealership locations in contiguous metropolitan markets across three states.  Both businesses were leaders in their respective markets, offering customers a variety of towable travel trailers and motorhomes from many of the top RV manufacturers.  Colerain and Northside enjoyed a stellar reputation with their manufacturers and retail customer base for delivering best-in-class sales and service.

KCO Value Add

  • Structured and financed simultaneous acquisition of two companies, including introduction of new floor plan and mezzanine lenders.
  • Created detailed 100-Day Plan to guide executional priorities.
  • Implemented formal strategic planning and budgeting process.
  • Applied enhanced financial reporting and controls, including flash reports, operational dashboard and audited financial statements.
  • Integrated initial acquisition to bring Northside onto Colerain’s systems and best practices in sales and service.
  • Structured the financing to allow for ongoing liquidity, working capital and future acquisitions.
  • Recruited Chief Marketing & Sales Officer.
  • Recruited Vice President Human Resources.
  • Recruited Director of Information Technology.