R-V Industries history

From tiny do-it-yourself kits to plush 30-foot models, travel trailers came into their own as true towable RVs by 1950.

As a family-owned business since 1972, Tiffin has set the standard for the luxury class A segment and complements THOR’s current North American portfolio.

R-V was founded in 1974 in Honey Brook, PA by Ronald L. Putt and Victor D. Dodd as a small job shop offering custom manufacturing services.

In 1975 RonVic Associates moves to their current location on Poplar Road, Honey Brook, PA

1980 Founding THOR Industries Inc. was founded on August 29, 1980 when Wade F.B. Thompson and Peter B. Orthwein acquired Airstream, the most recognized name in the industry.

Originally established in 1982 as a sterilizer service company, Beta Star was purchased by R-V Industries.

Founded in 1984, Milford, Indiana-based Bison is known for its rugged, high-quality and affordable specialty trailers.

In 1986, THOR was listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

In 1991, National Coach was purchased and the two companies operated under the ElDorado National trademark, with plants in California and Kansas.

1992 Four Winds International Four Winds International, a manufacturer of Class A and Class C motorhomes, was acquired in 1992.

In 1994 a separate maintenance building was added allowing more manufacturing space on the main shop floor.

1998 Champion Bus THOR solidified its leadership in the bus industry with the acquisition of Champion Bus.

2001 Keystone RV When THOR acquired Keystone RV in 2001, the company achieved an unprecedented dominance within the RV industry.

In 2003, Bison began adding living quarter conversions to their production process resulting in the development of a complete line of equine trailers with living quarters.

2010 Heartland RV Company In September 2010, THOR made its largest acquisition to date when it purchased Heartland RV Company, further cementing its companies’ combined position as the world's largest producer of towable RVs.

2020 Tiffin Group In December 2020, THOR acquired the Tiffin Group, a premium manufacturer of luxury recreational vehicles known for its excellent product quality, outstanding customer service and brand loyalty.