Two of the biggest names in RV components say they are discussing a possible merger.
Patrick Industries and Lippert Components both confirmed after the market closed Friday, April 17, that they are in talks about what they describe as a potential “merger of equals.” Patrick said they are discussing a possible transaction, but added there is no assurance a deal will happen or what form it might take. In a separate press release, Lippert carried the same headline and near identical language.
So for now, this is still just a discussion, not a signed deal. Both Patrick and Lippert also said they do not plan to comment further unless an agreement is reached or talks are ended.
What This Merger Could Mean for the RV Industry
If a deal does come together, it would bring two of the largest component manufacturers in the industry under one umbrella. Both are already giant companies with many brands supplying the lion’s share of parts, appliances, countertops, electrical and plumbing supplies, trim, panels, furniture, and other materials and equipment that RV manufacturers use to assemble their products. A joined company would have an incredible stronghold and influence over RV manufacturing.
Beyond their substantial overlapping products that currently compete with each other, Lippert is the largest supplier of trailer chassis in the world, and Patrick brings to the table lumber supplies and RV transport, which would mean that a merger could consolidate control of market supply from the beginning of an RV’s assembly up until it is delivered to the dealer.
This is a merger very much worth keeping an eye on. A combined Patrick-Lippert operation would not just be another corporate deal out of Elkhart. It would connect two suppliers already embedded across a huge portion of the RV manufacturing and aftermarket ecosystem. Both also have a large footprint in the marine and manufactured housing industries.
RV Miles will continue to follow this story here on RVMiles.com, and Jason will have all the latest as it becomes available on the RV and Camping News Video over on the RV Miles YouTube channel.
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