Behind the lit-up trailers, decorations, and live music that transform the Austin Convention Center into a lively exhibition are months of preparation. However, the groundwork isn’t just laid out at the dealership level. It begins with the remarkable duo, Jennifer and Leslie, who are the show promotors for this RV Show. Before dealers get details on the show, Jennifer and Leslie are coordinating the floor, working to set up vendors, and creating an entire social plan to spread the word.
Dynamic Duo Behind The Austin RV Expo
Let’s quickly introduce you to these key figures. Jennifer, the Executive Director of the Austin RV Expo, has been running the show for several years. Alongside her is Leslie, Vendor and Programs Director (as well as social media guru). This dynamic duo brings an unstoppable energy to running the Austin RV Expo. They are deeply committed to promoting local business, exclusively featuring Austin and surrounding dealerships. This includes dealers from Buda, Georgetown, Kyle, and Round Rock – which is unique for an RV show.
So how do they coordinate multiple dealerships? In the lead-up to the show, Jennifer is in constant communication with all the dealers. She’s making sure they’ve seen the floorplans, are familiar with the space, and overall, well prepared for the event. Not only that, but Jennifer and Leslie invest hours in strategic digital promotion, targeting the right audience across various platforms.
Navigating Challenges
The toughest challenge? Dealing with the unpredictable Texas weather, from freezing temperatures to ice storms and snow. On top of that, coordinating a show involving multiple dealerships with diverse needs. From RV sizes to load-in coordination, this part of the job adds an extra layer of complexity.
Load In Day
With over 400 trailers needing to load into their designated areas, the dealerships have 2 days to get their trailers hauled downtown and set up. This means all hands-on-deck, involving multiple runs to transport and set up the trailers. Despite the potential for chaos, Jennifer’s meticulous planning ensures a smooth operation.
Additionally, each RV undergoes a thorough check upon entering the convention center. This includes checking for propane tanks or attached batteries. Trailers are systematically arranged, electrical connections are established, units are leveled, and staging begins.
This goes for load out as well, except in 6 hours rather than 2 days. On Sunday at 5pm, when the show closes, you can feel a shift in the air, where everyone buckles down to pack up signage, décor, brochures, etc. From there, teams quickly line up, get their trailer hooked up, and hit the road out of the Convention Center.
Favorite Part of The Show?
Load-out day emerges as a major highlight of the show, despite the chaos. It offers a chance to celebrate successes and reminisce on the fun moments. RV shows provide a unique experience for dealerships to connect with people they might not otherwise have the chance to chat with. This creates lasting memories and opportunities to hear travel stories from fellow campers.
Benefits of Going to an RV Show
One major benefit of attending an RV Show is the number of campers in one spot – set up at their best. Every unit is lit up, slides are out, awnings extended, and some even decorated – giving a realistic expectation of what each RV has to offer. Additionally, manufacturers will fly into these shows, ready to answer any questions, helping customers find the perfect RV. The entire environment of an RV show allows for a low-pressure sales environment. You can be as hands on or hands off as you’d like with all the units unlocked and set up – ready for you to go explore!
Overall, the Austin RV Expo features some incredible dealerships, with great products, who are ready to help you find your dream campers. From motorhomes to tiny teardrops, this RV Show has tons to see every year! Make sure to listen to this episode of RV Small Talk for all the ins and outs of RV Shows and get to know the ladies behind the event.
