Greg Gerber posted on March 12, 2008 18:56
PERRIS, Calif. -- Weekend Warrior Manufacturing has laid off at least 200 workers, RV Industry News has learned.
Phones at the company's California headquarters went unanswered this afternoon as the magazine staff attempted to verify the information.
Dealers started calling Monday with rumors that a massive layoff was pending and that several key salespeople had been fired.
Messages left for Weekend Warrior officials on Monday were not returned.
One dealer did forward a letter he received Tuesday from Max Villa, sales manager for Weekend Warrior. The letter hinted that layoffs had occurred, but did not indicate a number.
A Weekend Warrior dealership in southern California confirmed today that at least 200 employees had been laid off. One Midwestern dealer had heard that number could be as high as 400 people, but he doubted whether the firm even employed that many people.
In his letter to dealers, Villa stated, "This letter is to inform you on what is happening at Weekend Warrior. As you know, the economy and market have taken quite a hit over the last two years. There have been many types of industries hit hard, including the RV industry. It's no secret there have been companies who have closed their doors for this reason.
"We are here to let you know that even though some of those other companies have had to shut their doors, we are here to stay! Recently, we have had to do some unfortunate layoffs. This had to be done to ensure a full functioning company. We are aware that many other manufacturers and dealers have had to do layoffs also, but here at Weekend Warrior, we feel fortunate that we have been able to hold off on any layoffs until now.
"Nationally in 2007, we sold 85 percent more SUT units than our closest competitor and we sold 139 percent more SUTs in California than our closest competitor.
"Weekend Warrior will still remain the leader in the industry and will be offering new leading edge designed floor plans along with a new, more structured warranty department.
"We appreciate your business and your support for our product. We look forward to our future together," Villa wrote to dealers.