Truma Corp. Celebrates 10th Anniversary in North America – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News

Truma Corp. President & CEO Gerhard Hundsberger addresses the audience during the company’s 10th anniversary celebration Thursday at its Elkhart, Ind., headquarters. (Photo: Rick Kessler/RVBusiness)

ELKHART, Ind. – As a fitting cap to the weeklong Elkhart RV Open House, the RV industry and community leaders helped Truma Corp. celebrate the 10th anniversary of its North American operations. Indeed, what began as a modest footprint — three people with no computers working out of a converted home — has grown into an all-in operation with 77 employees, a sparkling headquarters with cutting-edge R&D and a sizable roster of OEM partners.

President & CEO Gerhard Hundsberger, who along with COO Mark Howlett have been the stalwarts of Truma’s North American presence, said the company decided to make the move “across the pond” because it believed there was room in North America for a premium supplier offering high-quality, well-built systems with exceptional service.

“We knew, based on our experience in Europe, that our systems would appeal to high-end RV manufacturers and RV owners. Yet we didn’t just jump into this market. We did our homework, conducted a market study, and interviewed manufacturers, dealers and end users. We found that indeed, there was space for a quality supplier in the appliance area. At that time, we frequently heard that no matter if you bought a $25,000 travel trailer or a $500,000 motorhome, the appliances were still all the same. In fact, many were still using 1970s and 1980s technology — and I believe many still do today.”

Hundsberger quipped that the one thing Truma couldn’t offer was a lower price point.

“We know that Truma systems are always the more expensive choice,” he said. “During our interviews with manufacturers, we heard that switching suppliers to save even 50 cents was not unheard of, since keeping costs down meant a higher profit margin. Completely understandable, since many of us in this room like to find the best deal.

Gerhard Hundsberger

“Thus, when Truma established our headquarters in 2013 in Elkhart, we knew what we were facing,” he continued. “But simply going the less-expensive route just to sell more products isn’t our DNA. High quality, dependability and end-user comfort are most important. So, the old saying, ‘You get what you pay for’ certainly rings true to us.”

Hundsberger then provided an overview of the company’s North American products, including the AquaGo compact water heater, Aventa air conditioner, VarioHeat furnace, and Combi, which he said was the original two-in-one furnace and water heater.

He also teased several products that were coming to America, including the Saphir, an under-the-bench air conditioning system with heating capability.

“Truma Saphir is designed to create a sleek look by removing the air conditioner from the roof of an RV and eliminating the need for large wall cutouts,” he explained. “Saphir recently received certification and is currently being tested in the U.S. We are looking forward to offering the Saphir air conditioner in early 2024.”

Also on the near horizon are new versions of the Truma Combi that will address the desire for one fuel source and off-grid capabilities, and the new Alde 3030, which offers hydronic heat and continuous hot water.

“Someone recently asked me what it means to be a quality supplier in the RV industry. I told him at Truma we don’t think of ourselves as suppliers or vendors. We strive to be partners with manufacturers, dealers and end consumers. We are your partner from start to finish,” Hundsberger said, while adding that the company, as part of its commitment to being responsible corporate citizens, was adopting High Dive Park in Elkhart.

It was noted that Truma has been linked to the U.S. ever since its founding in 1949. Philipp Kreis — the grandfather of current CEO Alexander Wottrich — named the company after President Harry S. Truman when he implemented the Marshall Plan for economic recovery after World War II, making it possible for Germany to become an industrialist nation.

Wottrich was one of several Truma executives who were on hand for the 10th anniversary celebration. In his presentation, Wottrich congratulated Hundsberger and Howlett along with the rest of the Truma team for the milestone.

“Truma does not settle for the easy solution. We work with our partners until we find the right solution that meets their needs and adds value to the product. That is what we do,” Wottrich said. “Our vision is to pioneer worldwide leading solutions for unforgettable times outdoors. Those of you here in this room and many others who are unable to attend have made the last decade one of these unforgettable experiences.

“I am excited for what the future will bring and the new heights that collaborating with our partners and meeting their needs will allow us to reach,” he added. “Once again, my heartfelt congratulations to the North American team on 10 successful years — and my unending gratitude for the partnerships we have built along the way.”

Source: https://rvbusiness.com/truma-corp-celebrates-10th-anniversary-in-north-america/