For over 25 years, brothers Steve and Dave Francis and long time friend Rob Merrill crossed paths time and time again in their careers. Each had observed consolidation happening throughout a variety of industries. Industries that were previously dominated by family-owned, independent businesses were beginning to consolidate into “big box” retail chains. As the owner of Trailside RV Center, Steve saw the clear consumer benefits of buying from a locally-owned business, as well as the potential synergy of connecting dealers into a group committed to serving RV consumers as they travel.
The ROUTE 66 RV Network began in the fall of 2003 with 17 charter members. Through the hard work and effort from those early pioneers and the vision of the team, the RV dealer network quickly grew to over 150 locations throughout the United States. We received national acclaim for our growth and success in serving the RV consumer the “best of both worlds”: the personal care and commitment of a locally-owned, small business with the convenience & savings of a $2+ Billion organization.
In 2013, the network undertook two significant initiatives: aligning with KOA Kampgrounds, the most recognized name in outdoor recreation, and expanding our RV dealers into Canada. Through these alliances, superior service and savings extended to dealer locations in Canada and hundreds of partner KOA RV Parks throughout North America.
In 2020, the ROUTE 66 RV Network formed a new alliance with RV Care Network that allowed our combined 200+ dealerships to better serve traveling consumers throughout all of North America. This partnership strengthened both networks and we’ve never been more equipped to keep our promise, “Wherever the road takes you, you can count on us!”
When you shop with a Route 66 RV Dealer, you can expect to receive the highest level of integrity, customer service and after-sale support. Only the finest dealers in the U.S. and Canada are invited to join our network and their commitment to creating a great RV experience for customers is how they retain their membership.
The ROUTE 66 RV Network offers its customers over 1,200 service bays that are staffed with nearly 2,000 RVDA Certified Technicians. Our network also has several specific ways to support customers after the sale which include: the ROUTE 66 Customer Care Promise, ROUTE 66 Proprietary Network, ROUTE 66 RV Club, ROUTE 66 Certified Pre-Owned, ROUTE 66 Classic Coverage Plus Service Agreements and Parts 66 Protection Plans.
