No more winter labor rates for Newmar service?

[Neal]

I heard this rumor from a friend that recently went to Newmar for service that Newmar may be doing away with winter rates. I submitted for a few estimates when I thought I was going to need new air conditioners and to get my slide toppers fixed at that time. I got my estimates back yesterday, read them today, inquired about the labor rate (210/hr I believe it was).

At this time upper management has not told us if we are going to have a winter discount this year...

Those quotes are done at our current labor rate at this time.

 

[Rd1]

210 is the rate

 

[Richpatty]

I guess they are busy enough year round to not have to offer a discount?

 

[Underboss]

Its the start of what will be massive inflation. This signals that the rate in the spring will most likely increase

 

[Chuggs]

Neal, I believe that's normal. The service rate on the estimates are full price...and are adjusted if you come for that service during the winter rate period. The estimate isn't date specific. At least that was the case when we had our big winter service work done.

 

[Neal]

Neal, I believe that's normal. The service rate on the estimates are full price...and are adjusted if you come for that service during the winter rate period. The estimate isn't date specific. At least that was the case when we had our big winter service work done.

@Chuggs I requested winter rates and followed up with them asking about it and they replied which I quoted above. I had heard the rumor already that winter rates were likely not happening from someone's recent service visit. I'm not surprised, sales are abysmal, WGO stock is plummeting now at 52 week low, and they need to make any money they can for those willing to pay. All it's doing for me is driving me to other locations for service and going to Newmar is no longer something I'll go out of my way for. I just hope the best people at Newmar, those working the factory and service center, keep their jobs.

 

[Underboss]

I am not sure they are worried about losing service customers. They are booked out 6 to 8 months. For me I would rather pay the normal three season rate then deal with the possibility or rock salt damage to the bottom of my coach. My neighbor bought a used 25 Ventana that was from up north. It had 5k miles on it and he never bent down to see the salt all over the underside. Now the damage is beginning to show

 

[Chuggs]

That's a bummer.

Hope this bag of bolts hangs together for a while.

Batteries, tires, and upholstery work all coming up. But don't need Newmar for any of that.