Demographic Trends Propel Winnebago Growth

The pool of potential purchasers of recreational motor homes is on the rise, and Winnebago Industries Inc. is expanding its Forest City, Iowa, manufacturing facilities to meet an expected increase in demand for its products. "We anticipate growth into the future because of demographic trends," says Winnebago Chairman, CEO, and President Bruce Hertzke. "Not only is our target market of consumers age 50 and older growing at a faster rate, this group also has more discretionary income than ever before." The $3.6 million expansion calls for an additional 45,000 square feet of motor home manufacturing capability that will increase production by about 1,000 units per year when in full production. Expected to be completed within the next year, the expansion likely will increase employment by more than 200 workers, the company says. Winnebago announced plans to expand its customer service and product-development facilities as well.