Enterprise History
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.
