For over 50 years, Jayco has been designing a variety of RV’s, perfect for every adventure! Each model is build with exploration in mind, and is backed by months of research, development, and testing. It is no surprise that the Jayco lineup is full of award winning models!
1968 – The Beginning
In 1968, Lloyd and Bertha Bontrager were residing on their family farm in Northern Indiana when Lloyd had a groundbreaking idea to revolutionize the camping industry. He conceived a prototype camping trailer with a distinctive lifting system designed specifically for fold-down campers. This innovative concept showcased Lloyd’s ingenuity and highlighted his passion for enhancing the camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Bontragers’ commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail was evident in the development of the unique lifting mechanism for their fold-down campers. This innovative design not only provided campers with a more convenient and efficient setup but also set a new standard for camping trailers in terms of functionality and ease of use. Lloyd and Bertha’s dedication to creating a superior product laid the foundation for what would eventually become a successful business that continues to thrive today, catering to the needs of campers across the country.
In 1969, Al Yoder became a company partner. During Jayco’s first year they had 15 employees and sold 132 camping trailers.
1970
Lloyd launched the first Jayco Dealer Seminar to introduce new models, Jayco’s first international sale!
Plants were opened in Canada and Kansas in effort to keep up with customer demand.
1971
Jayco’s first year of selling Travel Trailers, and they built 1,100 trailers within the first year!
1972
Jayco’s first year of selling Fifth Wheel Trailers.
1975
In 1975 Al Yoder became the Executive Vice President of Jayco.
The company made Americas list of top 10 RV manufacturers for the very first time!
Jayco expanded into Australia and officially became an international company.
1977
Jayco entered the Class C market with the JayMini Motorhome.
1979
Jayco proved they can do more than just RV’s by building the first horse-drawn Mackinac Island Tram.
The 80’s
In the early 1980s, Jayco made significant strides in the recreational vehicle industry with the introduction of innovative products. One of their notable creations was the Jay Trek wagon gear trailer, launched in 1980, which provided outdoor enthusiasts with a versatile and convenient way to transport their gear. Following the success of the Jay Trek, Jayco continued to push boundaries by unveiling the Jay Tiki fold-down tent camper in 1982. This new camper model offered campers a unique and comfortable camping experience, further solidifying Jayco’s reputation for innovation and quality in the market.
As Jayco’s product line expanded and their reputation for excellence grew, so did their business success. By 1982, Jayco had reached a significant milestone by producing and shipping their 100,000th unit. This achievement not only highlighted the company’s growing presence in the industry but also underscored the trust and loyalty of their customer base. Through their commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Jayco continued to thrive and establish itself as a leading player in the recreational vehicle market during the early 1980s.
1991
Starcraft RV, one of the nations oldest and most respected brand of campers, was taken under Jayco’s corporate umbrella.
1993
Jayco introduced the Esprit Tent Camper, and Jayco built and shipped their 200,000th unit!
Al Yonder retired from his role of President.
1994
Llyod was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame
1996
Al Yonder was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame.
In 1997 Jayco joined the world wide web on Jayco.com! That same year, Jayco also built and shipped their 300,000th unit, and even opened their customer service center in Indiana!
The corporate headquarters facility in Indiana was completed in 1999.
2001
Jayco introduced the Kiwi, a lightweight travel trailer that is today known as the Jay Feather.
2002
Jayco introduced the Jay Flight trailer brand. Today, Jay Flight has been the #1 best selling travel trailer in North America for the last 13 years straight.
Jayco opened a new manufacturing plant in Twin Falls, Idaho in 2005. To keep up with the growing demand in western Canada and USA.
The 500,000th unit was built and shipped IN 2006, and Jayco introduced the first lightweight toy hauler travel trailer, originally named the Talon.
In 2008, Jayco acquired assets of former Travel Supreme, and launched the Class A Diesel Pusher Entegra Coach division.
In 2011, Jayco became the worlds largest privately held RV manufacture.
2014
Jayco entered the Gasoline Class A market with the Precept.
Jayco acquired assets to former Open Range, and renamed the division Highland Ridge RV.
In 2016, Jayco built its 100,000th unit! The Jayco corporation and all of its brands were acquired by Thor Industries.
In 2020, Jay Flight was awarded the #1 selling Travel Trailer in North America for 15 consecutive years.
In 2021, Jayco rebranded to Jayco Family of Companies to encapsulate the four divisions.
All information and picture credit to Jayco
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