BUILDING ON A LEGACY OF QUALITY AND INNOVATION
LEADING WITH PURPOSEFUL CHANGE
Lippert has become a household name of the North American manufacturing industry as well as a brand synonymous with innovation and quality. We find out more with Group President, Ryan Smith
Writer: Ed Budds | Project Manager: Michael Sommerfield
From over 140 manufacturing and distribution facilities located throughout North America and Europe, Lippert supplies a broad array of precision-engineered components for RV, marine, manufactured housing, and on- and off-highway vehicles.
In this way, the company remains immensely dedicated to enhancing the experiences for those who love to explore the outdoors.
Whether in an RV, boat, or commercial vehicle, as a leading manufacturer and trusted supplier, Lippert takes pride in its extensive range of products, from innovative RV leveling systems and towing technologies to outdoor living solutions and a plethora of marine products.
Based in Elkhart, Indiana, and now employing more than 13,000 dedicated team members worldwide, Lippert’s diverse competencies and extensive resources have helped
position the company as a leader in several key areas of the industry.
A CULTURE OF COMMITMENT
What truly differentiates Lippert from the competition is the company’s unwavering commitment to its people and the exceptional culture it has cultivated within the organization.
“We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we invest heavily in their development, well-being, and job satisfaction. Our collaborative and inclusive company culture fosters innovation, allowing our talented team members to thrive and contribute ideas across all facets of the business,” prides Group President, Ryan Smith.
“This not only enhances employee retention but also drives our collective success. We’re all aligned in our mission to deliver unparalleled quality, service, and – most importantly – an exceptional customer experience,” he adds.
Lippert’s relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction is embedded in everything it does, pushing the entire business to exceed expectations and create meaningful, lasting relationships with its clients.
The company’s ability to attract and retain the best talent in the industry empowers it to continuously elevate its offerings, ensuring Lippert remains at the forefront of innovation.
“We prioritize teamwork, accountability, and a hands-on approach that allows us to operate with the agility and entrepreneurial spirit of a small company, while benefiting from the resources and capabilities of a larger organization.”
This finely struck balance enables Lippert to stay nimble, adapt quickly to market demands, and provide the personal touch that customers value without compromising on quality.
Ultimately, Lippert’s dedication to its people, obsession with the overall customer experience, and ability to deliver superior products truly set it apart in a competitive business landscape.
The company is committed to providing a level of service and quality that is unmatched in the market, making it the trusted partner for its customers’ marine needs.
AGENTS OF CHANGE
Drawing on his earlier point, Smith is keen to emphasize again that people remain the most important asset at Lippert.
“We empower our staff to be agents of change within a culture rooted in open communication and continuous improvement. The entrepreneurial spirit of our team members is the heartbeat of our
organization, fostering innovation and agility at every level,” he imparts.
Through initiatives such as weekly, in person listening sessions with President and CEO, Jason Lippert, the company ensures that every team member can voice their ideas and concerns directly to leadership, reinforcing the belief that their voices truly matter.
“Our Just Fix It (JFI) program exemplifies this commitment by encouraging employees to propose enhancements to our processes through our Lean Manufacturing philosophies – whether for safety or efficiency. This not only empowers individuals to take ownership of their work but also leads to systemic changes that emerge from the ground up,” Smith adds.
From top to bottom, Lippert believes that every idea has the
potential to drive improvement, and the company’s culture thrives on the proactive mindset that every team member can make a difference.
“Leadership here at Lippert grows with the business – with an average tenure of 15 years, each leader is dedicated to the mission of the company and nurturing industryleading talent through our Leadership Academy.”
The academy provides comprehensive training and development opportunities, equipping Lippert’s team with the skills and confidence needed to innovate and lead within their roles.
By fostering an environment where entrepreneurial thinking is celebrated, the company empowers its people to challenge the status quo and explore new possibilities.
At Lippert, everyone understands
that this collaborative spirit enhances the collective work environment, driving continuous improvement and ensuring that everyone feels inspired to contribute to shared success.
“We believe that our remarkable team is essential in making experiences better by using business as a force for good,” Smith expands.
SMART SOLUTIONS
Lippert specializes in precisionengineered axles and chassis that deliver superior stability and safety, along with advanced coatings that enhance both durability and performance, and cutting-edge electronics that provide smart solutions for its customers.
“Additionally, we offer a broad range of furniture and lamination options, high-quality mattresses for comfort on the road, and robust
metal fabrication and plastic molding services that allow for customization and efficiency,” adds Smith.
Lippert’s expertise also extends to power and motion systems, along with windows and glass products, making it a single source supplier for many customers.
Today, the company is primarily a manufacturer and supplier of components for the RV, marine, automotive, and building products industries, as well as the aftermarkets of those markets.
With an extensive profile of manufacturing capabilities, the business also serves a number of other markets including hospitality, transportation, construction, agriculture, military, and more.
“A lot has changed since our founding in 1956, but one thing Lippert has always been committed
to is quality and innovation. From our very first product, we have set the tone for improving the customer experience.”
NAVIGATING A DYNAMIC INDUSTRY
The current landscape of the US manufacturing industry is exceptionally dynamic and full of promise.
“Today, we’re witnessing a remarkable resurgence in manufacturing jobs returning to American soil, and at Lippert, we’re all in on that. Our commitment to domestic manufacturing isn’t just about delivering top-tier craftsmanship for our customers; it’s about breathing life into our communities, creating quality jobs, and fostering meaningful experiences for our team members and customers,” Smith sets out.
“Step into one of our facilities, and you’ll feel it — the hum of machinery, the glow of welding sparks, and the rhythmic buzz of seamstresses carefully stitching upholstery. It’s the heart of what we do – a place where blue-collar pride and technical expertise intersect every day,” he adds passionately.
Lippert is currently in the process of investing in advanced robotics and automation to enhance quality and safety, ensuring that its teams can focus on what matters most.
By combining cutting-edge technology with the human touch, the company is not only making processes leaner and greener but also staying true to its overarching sustainability goals.
Smith believes that at the end of the day, it’s not just about what is built; it’s about who’s building it. The hardworking people of Lippert are not just the backbone of the company –they’re the driving force behind every weld, stitch, and product.
“That’s why we’ve built a culture that puts our team members first,
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fostering an environment where their well-being, growth, and success are top priorities. And it’s not just talk –we’ve won multiple awards, including Indiana’s 5-Star AchieveWELL designation for 2024, making us the only company in the state to receive this honor.”
When Lippert takes care of its entire team, it simultaneously takes care of customers, which continues to define the business to this day.
“We’re all driven by the same mission – to create exceptional products for the hardworking folks who value their time outdoors. Whether they’re hitting the road or cruising the water, we’re committed to making their experiences better, easier, and more enjoyable,” he confirms.
A SOLID COMPANY FOUNDATION
At Lippert, relationships are the backbone of the business. This goes for its internal team and extends to the valued partnerships shared with its trusted suppliers.
“Having strong relationships with our suppliers is incredibly important to our success. When we work closely with them, we ensure we’re getting high-quality materials and staying efficient in our operations,” states Smith.
“It’s all about open communication and collaboration. This way, we can tackle challenges together, come up with innovative solutions, and keep things running smoothly,” he adds.
Meanwhile, building trust and understanding with its multitude of suppliers creates a solid foundation for long-term partnerships.
In this way, Lippert values working with suppliers who share its commitment to quality and innovation.
“That’s how we make sure our customers get the best products out there.”
Whilst Lippert is primarily known as a leading brand in the RV sector, it’s
“WE EMPOWER OUR STAFF TO BE AGENTS OF CHANGE WITHIN A CULTURE ROOTED IN OPEN COMMUNICATION AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT”
– RYAN SMITH, GROUP PRESIDENT, LIPPERT
Processes include:
Laser Cutting
• Sheet lasers, including 20k fiber
• Stainless and aluminum (up to 2” thick)
Robotic plasma cutting (10” O.D.)
Saw Cutting
• Bundle saw (24” capacity)
• Mild steel and galvanized (up to 1” thick)
Tube lasers (up to 24’ long)
Brake presses, including robotic bending
Sheet forming (up to 14’)
Be the Definition of
• Cold saw precision cutting (.01 tolerance)
Robotic and hand welding
• Mild steel, aluminum, stainless
Painting / Powder coating
CNC machining
Doing
On Time Deliveries
On Time Deliveries
Quality Products
Providing
LIPPERT’S MISSION AND VALUES
• Lippert is focused on making lives better by developing meaningful relationships with its customers, co-workers, and communities. This commitment drives the company’s focus on creating an atmosphere in which team members choose to approach challenges with a positive attitude, fostering an environment where everyone is passionate about winning.
• Everyone at Lippert retains high standards of honesty, integrity, and candor, holding itself and others accountable. The entire company culture emphasizes teamwork and trust, empowering staff to connect effectively with one another and collaborate toward successful outcomes. Lippert genuinely cares about its people, expressing empathy and celebrating the achievements of all team members whilst serving them with humility and dignity.
• In its overarching pursuit of excellence, Lippert embraces the values of being humble and coachable, eager to learn from one another, and open to constructive feedback. Elsewhere, as an effective communicator, the company encourages open dialogue and ensures every voice is heard.
• Innovation, quality, leadership, culture, and customer experience are the pillars that guide the entire organization. Lippert prioritizes continuous improvement and creativity, always seeking new ideas to enhance its offerings. A resolute dedication to quality ensures that every product and service meets the highest standards, whilst Lippert’s commitment to an exceptional customer experience reinforces its role as a trusted partner.
essential to highlight the company’s strategic diversification which has played a crucial role in its ongoing success, especially in today’s volatile market, and allowed efficiencies for customers with unique situations that are looking for partners who are vertically integrated with broad capabilities.
Its extensive portfolio now includes not only RVs but also marine products, transportation solutions, building products, and hospitality services.
“Our global reach is a significant advantage as we not only serve the North American market but also have a strong presence in the European caravanning and marine industries. This international footprint allows us to adapt to diverse market demands and tap into new growth opportunities,” Smith prides.
By leveraging its robust manufacturing capabilities, Lippert proudly boasts the ability to produce a wide range of high-quality products across these markets.
This diversification strategy not only mitigates risk but also enables the company to remain resilient and competitive in an ever-changing marketplace.
Overall, Lippert’s impressive commitment to innovation and quality across multiple industries is what sets it apart and drives continued success.
BUILT DIFFERENT
At Lippert, safety isn’t just a priority –it’s the foundational building block of everything the company does and a responsibility it takes very seriously.
“We have the platform to change the landscape of RV safety, and we embrace that responsibility with unwavering commitment. As leaders in the industry, we’re dedicated to setting new, transformative safety standards that go beyond the basics to protect our customers, their families, and their investments,” Smith ensures.
ABOUT US
Philip Matthews Company specializes in custom plastic profile extrusion for various industries and products such as garage doors, swimming pools, and recreational vehicles. PMC strives to demonstrate the highest levels of customer service to their clients and deliver the highest quality parts available in each marketplace, all while offering the best possible value to their customers.
PMC offers in house tool and die making capabilities which allow us to turn around samples and proto parts in as little as a few days instead of weeks or months.
Additionally, PMC has a full warehouse and stocking program which if utilized by our customers can cut lead times down to as little as 2-3 days. These are just a couple areas where we go above and beyond to offer the best customer service available in the marketplace.
“Our anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Touring Coil Suspension (TCS) are prime examples of how we’re pushing the boundaries of safety innovation for RVs.”
Indeed, Lippert’s TCS reduces road shock by 50 percent compared to traditional leaf springs, ensuring a smoother ride and dramatically decreasing wear and tear.
This means the RV is not subjected to the same shaking, bouncing, and rattling that can occur with other systems.
“By reducing road vibrations, we not only increase ride comfort but also significantly extend the lifespan of the RV.”
Similarly, Lippert’s ABS component is equally impactful, providing smoother, more controlled braking,
which is crucial in emergency situations. It’s these kinds of innovations that ensure the safety of the company’s customers on the road, allowing them to travel knowing they are in the safest hands possible.
However, Lippert’s resolute commitment to safety extends far beyond the ride itself.
“At our beam processing center, we oversee over one million pounds (lbs) of I-beam steel each week, ensuring that every chassis we produce is engineered to the highest standards of durability and precision,” details Smith.
At present, the company’s automated systems reach over a million part locations per month, ensuring each component fits perfectly and contributes to the overall strength and integrity of the RV.
RESPONSIBLE PRACTICE
Across the board, Lippert is deeply committed to protecting the environment and contributing to global standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
“We take concrete steps toward sustainability by investing in ecofriendly practices and prioritizing high-quality recycled materials, particularly in our packaging. Our approach is further strengthened by our lean manufacturing principles, which minimize waste and optimize resource use, thereby reducing our environmental footprint,” Smith excites.
CHAMPIONS OF THE COMMUNITY
At Lippert, success is measured by the positive impact it creates inside and outside of the business.
The company’s continuous mission to put real resources behind culture, leadership, and philanthropy underscores its commitment to using business as a tool for change in the world. Through the Lippert Cares initiative and guiding principle of ‘Everyone Matters’, it continues to create transformative social change.
Lippert’s volunteerism, which stands as a testament to profound community impact, is fueled by a deep-rooted culture of compassion and generosity, driven by the dedication of team members, and focused on vital areas such as supporting families in need, strengthening educational programs, bolstering community health, and more.
Through substantial annual donations, the company also supports local nonprofits, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to addressing community needs both now and in the future.
Lippert likewise takes pride in organizing a diverse range of events that serve as catalysts for community improvement. These events are meticulously planned to encourage social cohesion, neighborhood engagement, and overall wellbeing.
Inspired by the spirit of unity and shared purpose, Lippert remains a beacon of positive change.
One of the cornerstones of Lippert’s commitment to social engagement is its community service initiative, launched in 2017, with the ambitious goal of contributing over 100,000 hours of voluntary work annually.
“Since then, our dedicated team members have volunteered more than 868,000 hours, positively impacting over 2,000 non-profits across various markets. This initiative is more than just a number; it embodies our values and drives a deeper purpose within our organization,” he quantifies.
Through community service, Lippert’s employees forge stronger bonds with one another, collaborating on projects that resonate with their passions and values.
This shared commitment not only enhances teamwork but also fosters a culture of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility.
By actively participating in service projects, the company’s employees cultivate meaningful relationships with each other and the communities they serve, creating a sense of belonging and fulfillment.
“Furthermore, our annual contributions to various organizations demonstrate our commitment to making a tangible difference. We believe that supporting our communities is essential to our identity as a company, reinforcing our mission to create a sustainable future whilst enriching the lives of those around us.”
At Lippert, the implementation of this community service initiative is a powerful testament to the company’s dedication toward purpose-driven work and the lasting impact that can be achieved together.
In this way, Lippert invites both its customers and its competitors to take part in these initiatives. It remains Lippert’s mission to inspire all companies to make similar commitments to their communities in order to make business a tremendous force for good worldwide.
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Please introduce me to BABSCO, including a brief overview of your main products, services, client base, and locations?
BABSCO, established in 1968, has grown from a local distributor to one of Northern Indiana’s leading electrical wholesale suppliers. With locations in Elkhart and Warsaw, we have spent over five decades expanding our product offerings, adapting to industry changes, and serving a diverse client base that includes consumers, electrical contractors, and OEMs. In 2016, BABSCO became 100 percent employee-owned (ESOP), giving our team a personal stake in the company’s success. When employees are owners, it’s more than just a job - it’s about ensuring that our customers receive the best products and service every time. This culture of ownership has been instrumental in building longlasting relationships with our clients. Our journey has been driven by innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence. Over the
years, we’ve been recognized with numerous industry awards for our dedication to quality and customer satisfaction. Our ability to stay attuned to market trends and introduce new technologies has positioned us as a trusted name in the industry. Whether it’s powering homes or supporting large-scale manufacturing projects, if it needs electricity, BABSCO has the solution.
What is your take on the electrical distribution industry in North America today? Would you consider it a particularly challenging or exciting sphere to work in?
The electrical distribution industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, driven by technological advancements like smart homes, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicles (EVs). These innovations are transforming the landscape, making this an incredibly exciting time to be in the industry. At BABSCO, we’ve embraced these changes by expanding our product
“In 2016, BABSCO became 100 percent employeeowned (ESOP), giving our team a personal stake in the company’s success.”
offerings to include cutting-edge solutions, particularly in the EV sector, where we provide everything from battery charging equipment to components for manufacturers. This line positions us at the forefront of a rapidly growing market.
While the industry is exciting, it’s not without its challenges. Supply chain disruptions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, tested our adaptability. However, BABSCO’s proactive approach to triple-sourcing ensured that our customers received the products they needed without significant delays. The global push for sustainability has also increased demand for energy-efficient products, and we’re proud to play a critical role in
BABSCO building in Elkhart
helping our clients reduce their carbon footprints.
What for you differentiates BABSCO from the competition?
Our world-class customer service truly sets BABSCO apart. We don’t just meet our customers’ needs - we exceed them. Whether it’s sourcing hard-to-find parts or delivering on tight deadlines, we pride ourselves on being responsive and adaptable. For instance,
“At BABSCO, quality is non-negotiable.”
when one of our long-time clients needed a rare electrical component to complete a time-sensitive project, despite supply chain challenges, our team leveraged our extensive network to source the part and deliver it on time, keeping the project on track. This level of dedication stems from our unique employee ownership structure. At BABSCO, every employee is an owner. This means we all have a personal investment in the company’s success - and, by extension, in the satisfaction of our customers. We actively gather feedback from our clients to continuously improve, refine our offerings, and ensure that we consistently deliver top-tier solutions.
Could you tell us more about your status as one of the largest independent and 100 percent employee-owned electrical distributors in Northern Indiana?
BABSCO is built to last, and our employees are the heart of our business. Their dedication to going above and beyond is truly what keeps us moving forward. Being 100 percent employee-owned means we’re all in this together, and that shared sense of ownership reflects in the pride we take in our work and the strong relationships we’ve built with our customers. We work hard for our clients, and we have fun while doing it - this combination has been key to our longevity.
How do you ensure that BABSCO continues to supply exceptional services, top brands, and quality products for customers?
At BABSCO, quality is non-negotiable. We’re ISO-compliant, which means we adhere to strict international standards for quality management systems. This commitment to quality was especially
crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic, when global supply chains were disrupted. Our triple-sourcing strategy allowed us to maintain the inventory our customers needed, minimizing delays despite the challenging circumstances.
ISO compliance ensures that our operations run smoothly and efficiently, leading to cost savings and better product performance for our clients. During the pandemic, while others scaled back, we invested in remote technology and digitized parts of our supply chain. This forward-thinking approach allowed us to continue serving our customers without interruption, maintaining the high standards they expect from us.
Looking ahead, what are your key priorities for the coming year? Are you aiming to hit any specific targets, reach any goals, expand or diversify at all?
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for BABSCO. Our online store is launching soon, giving customers 24/7 access to our full range of products through a user-friendly interface with fast delivery options. We’re also expanding our product lines, including our EV line, which meets the growing demand for battery charging solutions. This positions us as a key player in the EV infrastructure space.
Additionally, we’re introducing our proprietary SpoolPro™ Automated Wire Spooler which will streamline the process of customizing wire orders for our clients. Whether you need a few feet or a few thousand, we’ve got you covered. By staying ahead of technological advancements, we’re not just meeting our customers’ needs today - we’re anticipating and shaping what they’ll need tomorrow. These innovations, paired with our continued commitment to quality and service, ensure that BABSCO will remain at the forefront of the electrical distribution industry.
From left to right: Joshua Papczynski (OEM Sales), Clayton Snider (Product Development and Training Manager), Jaycee Byers (OEM Sales)
Dawn Cocanower (Vice President), Steve Kile (President)
From left to right: Markus Inmalay (Deliveries/Warehouse), Michael Ellis (Assistant Warehouse Manager), Bryce Williams (Warehouse Manager), and the SpoolPro™
Baylee Kile (E-Commerce & Omnichannel Marketing Manager)
NORTH AMERICA OUTLOOK: HOW WERE YOU FIRST INTRODUCED TO THE INDUSTRY?
Ryan Smith, Group President: “I grew up in Goshen, Indiana, right in the heart of RV country, which gave me a unique perspective from an early age.
“With friends and family involved in the RV business, I developed a genuine appreciation for what we do. After college, I jumped straight into the workforce by driving trucks and working in logistics, which was a great way to get my hands dirty and learn the ins and outs of the markets.
“As my career progressed, I took on Vice President roles in sales and operations, overseeing a number of mergers and acquisitions. During this time, we deployed a portfolio diversification strategy, which involved expanding beyond RVs into industries such as marine, transportation, building products, hospitality, construction, and agriculture.
“This broader focus helped us evolve from being just an RV company into a key player in multiple markets. Our growth strategy has proved successful to date, seeing us through rough times like the COVID-19 pandemic and returning shareholder value time and again.
“Now, after over 18 years with Lippert, I have the pleasure of serving as Group President. I’m passionate about leading our teams to enhance not just their experience with Lippert and our products, but the overall journey for everyone who loves the RV lifestyle.
“It’s exciting to be part of a company that’s shaping the future of our industry and creating opportunities for more people to enjoy this way of life.”
LEVERAGING EXPERT CAPABILITIES
Moving forward, a resolute cornerstone of Lippert’s approach will be fostering and maintaining a healthy culture of continuous innovation.
“We intend to leverage our extensive R&D capabilities to develop cutting-edge solutions that not only meet but exceed customer expectations within the camping, boating, and transportation markets,” Smith exudes.
Furthermore, Lippert is poised for aggressive organic growth, complemented by a targeted acquisition strategy that aligns with its core competencies.
By identifying and integrating synergistic opportunities within existing markets, the company plans to enhance the competitive advantage it already possesses and drive further market penetration.
“We will also prioritize the expansion of our nationwide parts
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service footprint. By enhancing our service capabilities and accessibility, we aim to elevate the customer experience, ensuring that every interaction with our brand is seamless and memorable,” he tells us.
In the coming year, Lippert’s strategic priorities will be multifaceted, with a strong emphasis on maximizing return on investment (ROI).
In this way, the company aims to optimize its capital allocation strategies to ensure sustainable profitability and long-term shareholder value.
“Ultimately, what it all boils down to is our overarching goal to enhance the customer journey and foster a deep-seated love for the outdoors. By streamlining processes and enhancing engagement, we aim to attract more families into the outdoor lifestyle.”
Moreover, Lippert believes that by creating exceptional experiences, it can inspire a new generation of
outdoor enthusiasts and cultivate lasting connections with the brand.
“Through these initiatives, we are committed to driving sustained growth and operational excellence in the year ahead whilst also contributing to a greater appreciation for the natural world,” he concludes proudly.
Tel: 432-547-7378
customerservice@lci1.com corporate.lippert.com/about