Enterprise History

We have a rich heritage of creating new and innovative solutions that connect more people to the outdoors — and each other. We continue to grow and evolve so we can keep delighting our customers with extraordinary experiences for travel, life, work and play.
 
 

1958

Modernistic Industries launches in Forest City, Iowa with only 17 employees. Weeks later, the groundbreaking 15-foot Aljo trailer rolls off the assembly line for the first time–retailing at $895.

1960

Modernistic becomes Winnebago Industries, named after the river that flows through Forest City and the Iowa County where the Company was born.

1967

The company debuts the first Winnebago motorhome model with the launch of the F17 based on a Ford chassis. By introducing automotive assembly line-based production Winnebago motorhomes were able to reach the marketplace at roughly half the price of competitive products.

1970

Winnebago Industries goes public and WGO becomes the Company’s symbol on the New York Stock Exchange. It became the top performer in 1971 with a return of 470%.

1975

A culture of adventure led to many product and business ventures outside the RV core–including Super Trams, buses, farm wagons, helicopters and the introduction of the all-new Itasca motorhome line.

1980

Fuel efficiency and streamlined styling were the twin motivations behind the introduction of an array of models in the early 80s.

1986

In its 30th year, Winnebago Industries sets another production record, building its 200,000 unit. The Company also appears on the Fortune 500, ranking 10th in innovation.

1991

Winnebago Industries introduces the Rialta on a smaller VW chassis, and Vectra, the Company’s first bus-styled basement motorhome for customers seeking an RV lifestyle of extended use.

1998

Winnebago Industries hits a trifecta of milestones:

  • 40th anniversary
  • 300,000th unit produced
  • Record sales and revenue

2001

Winnebago Industries topped both the Class C and Class A sales charts for the first time in 20 years.

2004

Winnebago Industries achieves annual sales of $1.1 billion for the first time in history and is named “most-admired RV manufacturer” in an RV Business poll.

2010

The Winnebago brand returns to its roots with the purchase of SunnyBrook RV, beginning a growing and profitable new business unit for the Company.

2016

Winnebago Industries moves towards serving more customers in the towable market with the $500 million purchase of Grand Design RV.

2018

Winnebago Industries takes a bold step into the marine industry with the acquisition of premium boat-builder, Chris-Craft.

2019

Winnebago Industries brings new products and technology to its customers by acquiring Newmar Corporation, a motorhome manufacturer of luxury RVs.

2021

Winnebago Industries strengthens its Marine presence with the acquisition of Barletta, the fastest growing boat company in the fastest growing recreational boating segment.