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CARAVAN businesses in Nowra, NSW, have defended their decision not to
exhibit at the recent Nowra caravan show, arguing they are 'on show' in
the town all year round.
The four companies were responding after some exhibitors were reported as
being angry about the dealers' non appearance at the three-day event.
One visitor wrote to his local newspaper complaining that the "show
boycott" was embarrassing.
But in a joint letter of their own, the businesses - Jayco Nowra, Chapman
Caravans, Country Motor Company and Avan Nowra - claim their reputation
had been unfairly trashed.
They pointed out that they offered services, provided jobs, paid rates and
contributed to the local economy all year.
"The decision of these businesses not to attend the recent caravan show
held in Nowra was a considered business choice," they explained.
"That’s because these businesses are already 'on show' in Nowra year round
– with a wide range of stock and fully staffed showrooms to service the
needs of the local market, seven days a week.
"They have built a strong reputation for offering quality service to
customers and are known as a place where people can talk to a local who
knows the area well.
"And, most importantly, they are on hand to offer follow-up service and
support once the sale is complete."
They emphasised that after the show exhibitors had left, they were still
in town supporting the local community.
"Our four caravan and motorhome dealerships employ more than 59 people
locally, supporting their families and significantly contributing to the
economy in the Shoalhaven region," they explained.
"Combined, we have been operating locally for a total of 83 years and
support numerous local charities, spend hundreds of thousands of dollars
on local advertising, and maintain prime local real estate, keeping our
commercial streetscape active and safe, and offering professional quality
facilities for our customers.
"Unfortunately, much of the profits made at the recent Nowra show will be
lost interstate, including those of the event organiser, which is a
Victoria-based company."
Show organisers BossMan Events admitted they were disappointed "but not
offended" the businesses had not taken part.
A spokeswoman told Caravanning News: "They told us they already had
a sale on and were committed, but we really don't want to get caught up
with local politics.
"We want to keep well out of it."
