Innovation is the hallmark of free enterprise. Competition gives birth to new ideas which give products and companies a competitive advantage over other firms. Consumers vote with their wallets and reward or punish firms based on the value of their innovation.

Since its inception in July 1981, RV Trade Digest has been in the forefront of the effort to bring innovation to the RV industry. By showcasing new products and their features and benefits, we help educate not only the people who buy those products, but those who resell them to others as well.

Here?s a 25-year chronology showcasing the most innovative products introduced to the market via pages of RV Trade Digest.

Launching a legacy

The first product released published by RV Trade Digest in July 1981 featured Coachmen?s new Sun Room, a 9x9 nylon screen room that attached to its camping trailers.

In 1983, Dometic introduced its RM-763 6-cubic-foot refrigerator featuring an automatic energy election system that used either AC or DC power or LP gas to maintain a stable temperature.

In November, Leisure Components bought Shurflo?s Triple Action hand pump which was ?easy to operate; just press the handle down for city water. A full stroke of the handle activates a hand pump to provide even greater water flow. Units connected to an electric pump receive a smooth, steady water flow when handle is lifted to up position.?

Alcoa introduced a new precision-machined one-piece aluminum wheel as an alternative to rolled and welded wheels. Polished to a shine, wheel covers were no longer needed.