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Franchise Interview – Mr. Ron Ash, CEO and Founder, My RV Guy Franchise


How did you get into the RV Services industry?

My first experience in the RV industry began in 2014 while acting as the interim business manager for a Providence area dealership which sold and serviced automobiles, boats and RVs. Several years later, I took on a sales and business development role at a large dual location Massachusetts RV dealership. Immediately I put my decades of marketing experience together and created the My RV Guy brand as a way to increase leads, web traffic and foot traffic. Through social media video presentations, blog writings and email campaigns My RV Guy fostered trust and built solid relationships with our sales, parts and service customers. In 2021 a national chain purchased the dealership. I realized I’d no longer be able to offer my customers the service they were accustomed to, so I decided to part ways. I recognized a high demand for RV services and decided to fill that niche. The My RV Guy brand had a strong platform, so I recruited a few seasoned RV technicians who reflected my core values and could listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients.

What’s New in the My RV Guy Business or in the My RV Guy Franchise Model?

The My RV Guy brand has been able to incorporate the newest technologies, parts resources and support into an industry lacking in acceptable customer service practices. Our customer first approach has allowed us to win jobs and create lasting relationships. “Finally, a friendly voice on the line!” Answering calls, prioritizing customers needs combined with our unique offerings has catapulted My RV Guy forward in the RV services industry. Parts, Services, Solutions! Everything you need for your RV.

Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?

Finding seasoned RV technicians who reflect My RV Guy core values and can listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients can be challenging. Through franchising we hope to partner with franchisees that take pride in being able to provide My RV Guy customers with a high-quality, honest, and valuable service at competitive prices. Our ideal candidates will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.

What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?

With a network of My RV Guy franchises nationwide, we will experience exponential growth via ever strengthening brand recognition, parts margins and evolving technologies. I’d like to interact with our franchisees on a regular basis, consider new ideas, and create an environment that make our franchisees excited to start their workday every day! In 1992 I began a chain of automotive accessories stores in Rhode Island. One of our largest suppliers offered impeccable customer service in every area of the company. I honestly felt like I wanted to sell more for them. This is the feeling I’d like to establish in My RV Guy franchisees.

Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?

With over three decades in the parts and services industry I have learned a lot, and I look forward to putting that knowledge to work for my franchisees. Through every experience good and bad lessons are learned that can either hold us back or move us forward in the direction of our dreams. This is how we add tools to our toolbox. Through My RV Guy Franchising LLC, I offer franchisees access to a vast array of business management and marketing tools that would otherwise take years to acquire.

Franchisee support embellishes upon typical customer support models to develop franchisee skills in customer service by empathizing with our clients’ feelings as well as their service needs. It’s easy to get caught up in the emotions of a less than perfect situation. The right response can make the difference between a profitable experience and a bad business review. My RV Guy will be available to help franchisees through these types of situations, turning a volatile situation into a valuable one.

Access to parts and supplies is critical in any parts and services business. Acquiring the right parts in perfect timing is critical to the success of the My RV Guy business model. In most cases, when it comes to ordering parts, we can only be as good as our suppliers. Thirty years of purchasing parts and accessories has developed best in the business access to the parts and supplies our customers need. My RV Guy also has the ability to use data to suggest the RV parts and supplies our technicians should have on hand. My RV Guy franchisees will be able to say, “We’ve got that!” as well as “We do that!”

Efficiency is key in every business. When we save time, we make more money. Through our CRM tools franchisees will enjoy the ability to track technicians and have them book more jobs on route. My RV Guy customers know what to expect and when to expect it. “My RV Guy is on the way!” A polished, evolving and profitable business model allows technicians to do more jobs in less time while making more money. Multiple “at your fingertips” payment platforms including integrated credit card and installment terms separate My RV Guy from typical independent cash only RV mobile repair businesses.

Ongoing education is always available via the My RV Guy skills center online, CRM support agents, outside RV training facilities and by RV manufacturers and suppliers. We encourage our franchisees to seek training in areas they may be lacking. The more we learn the more we earn!

Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?

My RV Guy is a highly expandable business model. There is the potential to add multiple trucks to the franchise to keep up with demand for services. Having the right trainee on deck to do this can be a challenge. When your franchise begins to schedule customers several weeks out, it’s time to hire a helper. Working daily with you will develop their core values while readying a qualified technician for your franchise.

Define your Franchise Model:

A. Training and Support Model?

Initial and ongoing training.

B. What is the Fee Structure?

8% royalty/ 6% local advertising

C. Territory Definition?

15-30 miles ideally, 40 miles plus allowed outside assigned My RV Guy territories, RV campground locations can determine territories and locations, travel time should generally not exceed a one-hour drive.

D. Day in the life of a Franchisee?

My RV Guys will turn on their smartphones, tablets or computers at the beginning of each business day, check messages, return calls and texts, and begin sending out estimates and scheduling jobs. They will check to verify they have the parts and supplies they need to complete their repairs for the day and be sure they have the parts necessary for every day. Technicians can clock in and drive to their first job after letting their customer know they are ‘on the way’ via our CRM. Upon arrival technicians will start the clock for that job and begin the diagnostic or repair. The CRM will bring the technicians from there to billing. Once the technician has received payment it is on to the next job. Offer payment options and schedule routine maintenance before you go. Remember, every visit is an opportunity to foster a lasting relationship with your My RV Guy client. Find common ground! All things being equal, customers will always do business with those they like.

What does Your Franchisee Do in the My RV Guy Business Every Day?

This will depend on the franchise model they choose. Typically, the owner operator will take care of the day-to-day operations of their business. They will be the business manager, service advisor, parts manager and RV technician. In the owner operated service advisor model, the franchisee will take requests and dispatch their service technicians to various jobs. Both roles will be responsible to guide the day-to-day operations of the business included but not limited to customer service, ordering parts, tracking returns and scheduling jobs.

Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?

Our ideal candidate will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.  Honestly though, we need people who are ready to work and bring intensity and passion to the business, we can teach them the rest!

What Goals Do You Have for the My RV Guy Franchise Model in the Future?

Regional to national expansion is my main goal. Keeping up with technology and maintaining My RV Guy core beliefs is key. Having everyone on the same page while being open to new ideas to bring My RV Guy forward, and considering all opportunities as they are presented will contribute greatly to our enduring brand.

The greatest journeys begin with a single step. Taking that step and understanding everything you need to achieve your goals will materialize in perfect timing is at the heart of every great entrepreneur. Asking yourself, “What can I do today with what I have right now?” is the best way to ensure an expansive future.

For more information on the My RV Guy Service Model, Brand and Franchise System, visit the corporate site: www.myrvguyfranchise.com

Off Season On The Pond

Boating, Camping, Coventry, Nature, outdoors, Rhode Island, Rv, , , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

Fall weekends on the pond came to mind this morning. As children we stayed outside most of the day. The temperature dropping a few degrees didn’t change that. We’d throw on progressively heavier clothing and enjoy the subtle changes of the off season on Johnson’s Pond.

Most packed up and headed back to the city before this magical time of year began and wouldn’t return until Memorial Day weekend. We were lucky to have our primary residence less than an hour away, so for us that was not the case. Our Camp Ash didn’t suffer from a lack of use.

The air was cool and fresh, and there was a quiet that didn’t exist on a hot summer’s weekend by the water. This was the perfect recipe for expanding a child’s imagination. In those early years I’d build entire ranches with twigs and pine needles. I’d break up tiny branches, stick the twigs in the ground and create corral fences, barns and log cabins. Nature’s toys!

Eventually we’d take in our floating docks by laying them on rollers. That’s about the time I learned about leverage. The boats would get winterized, but we’d still take out the canoe or jon boat until the pond froze over. Once that happened it would be time to skate the pond. That experience went beyond peaceful. When the ice was safe enough, we’d skate the entire cove. I still have vivid memories of my neighbor Vinny losing himself in the present as he made the most of the experience.

Although the days ended sooner and cooler, a roaring fire accompanied by an old song or scary story, and our combined laughter made every hour a bit more valuable. The stars above seemed a lot more abundant too. Maybe it was because our senses became more aware as we were absent of distractions. Whatever the case, I’ll always cherish those special moments together off season on the pond.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

IT’S TIME TO SCHEDULE YOUR RV WINTERIZATION

My RV Guy offers an RV winterization service to protect your RV from cold weather damage by draining the water system, blowing out lines, adding RV antifreeze, and preparing vulnerable components for storage. This process prevents pipes from freezing and cracking, ensuring your RV is ready for use in the spring. You can schedule this service through My RV Guy to have their technicians prepare your vehicle for the winter. 

How My RV Guy’s Winterization Service Works

  • Draining the water system:Water is removed from the fresh water tank and hot water heater. 
  • Bypassing the water heater:The water heater is bypassed to prevent antifreeze from filling it, which saves antifreeze and makes the process more effective for the plumbing. 
  • Blowing out lines:Compressed air is used to remove any remaining water from the water lines and pipes. 
  • Adding RV antifreeze:Non-toxic RV antifreeze is pumped through the plumbing system to protect it from freezing. 
  • Protecting vulnerable components:This step helps protect components from the elements, though the exact details can vary by RV and service level. 

Why Winterize Your RV? 

  • Prevent freezing damage:The primary goal is to prevent water from freezing in your RV’s plumbing, which can cause pipes, tanks, and other components to crack and burst.
  • Ensure readiness for spring:A properly winterized RV will be ready to use when warmer weather returns without needing extensive repairs.

How to Schedule Service

You can schedule your RV winterization service directly through My RV Guy. Their website myrvguy.shop provides information on services and how to contact them. 

How Goes The Revolution

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rv, Uncategorized, , , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

How goes the revolution? In a previous blog More Memorable Memories I mentioned how gathering together with family and friends fosters memories that keep. I suggested a “New Year’s Revolution” instead of the traditional resolution. It looks like many are already onboard. With every generation, Americans are moving away from spending on possessions in favor of life experiences. I’d like to think it was something I said. Imagine, 8 in 10 Millennials crave more real world experiences and are putting their money into satisfying their experimental appetite. My “Gen X” group isn’t far behind. Many are selling their homes in favor of simplified lifestyles and expanding experiences via the RV lifestyle. Freedom, excitement, interaction and growth are the driving forces behind this massive shift in the American dream. They’re seeing the sights and enjoying campgrounds with a plethora of events and activities for every palate. So, if you’re sitting around the house having checked your explorer’s spirit at the door, it may be time to start living intentionally. Your next greatest experience may only be a few miles away.

Remember, the things we experience today contribute to how we’ll see ourselves tomorrow.

Happy camping,

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

The Tree Huggers

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

Summers on Shady Valley Road were filled with so many wonderful experiences with my siblings and our summertime family of friends. In addition to all the activities on Johnson’s Pond, there were trails to ride, corn fields to explore and lots of trees to climb. One tree in particular was very special to us. It was more than a tree. It was a meeting place we grew to love. So much so that my sisters and I, along with our neighborhood friends saved it from being cut down. After seeing how much the oddly shaped tree meant to us, the municipality compromised by just trimming it a bit.

The reason I bring this up is because of a conversation I had with a new customer recently. We were talking about all the technology included in many of today’s RV’s. Huge mobile homes with private spaces came up in conversation as well. He has a smaller camper, and his family spends most of their time outside as opposed to many who spend so much time inside their larger RVs. Back during our days on the pond or at Carpenter’s Beach Meadows by the sea, we rarely spent anytime indoors. We were always out with our family or friends. Our time was well spent swimming, boating and fishing. Don mentioned playing “Manhunt” and I was reminded of “Kick the Can”. There were the evening campfires that included storytelling and sing-alongs as well.

The joys of our summertime holidays were never about the size of our RV or cottage. It was all about interacting in and with nature. Every experience ignited an organic appreciation of the great outdoors. There were no distractions from the wonders around us. Our faces were not locked onto a screen. We had the unique opportunity to experience a new world if only for a season. That is what saved “our” very special tree.

Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.

Happy camping,

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

Know What You Want To Do With Your RV

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rv, , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

We are getting closer to the RV show season and will soon be moving into our busiest time of the year. I’ve talked to many show attendees over the last few months and am very excited to see so many new campers anxious to get into the RV lifestyle. So, I’ve decided to touch on a few things that RV newbies need to consider.

Know what you want to do with your RV. Are you interested in traveling from campground to campground? Will you be seeking a seasonal site at a campground? Do you intend on going off the grid? How you answer these questions will dictate which RV will best suit your camping needs.

If you’ll be sampling a plethora of campgrounds, you’ll want an RV that is easy to hookup, setup and maneuver. My advice to clients is to “never purchase more RV than you’ll need.” It’s easy to get a little overzealous during your shopping experience. Remember, bigger is not always better. Smaller RVs are used more often than larger RVs not only because there are more smaller campsites available wherever you go, they’re also easier to tow. You’re going to spend a very small portion of you camping experience inside your RV. When the weather is right, you’ll cook, play and congregate outside. Focus on the goal! We go RVing to bond with our family and to relish in the wonders of the great outdoors, right?

Another option is seasonal campground RVing. Many families choose to go seasonal once they’ve sampled several venues and have fallen in love with a campground that fulfills most of their needs. In this case make sure you speak to campground management about what size camper will work on the available site you’re interested in before making a purchase. You can have your RV delivered, so you may want to purchase one which will maximize the potential of your site. I’ve had two seasonal vacation spots which have blessed me with wonderful memories exploring, enjoying and interacting with my campground family of friends. If you love to socialize, you’ll love the seasonal RV camping experience.

Dry camping, also referred to as boon-docking, is camping in your RV without hookups. No electricity, water or sewer connections. If you yearn to experience nature at it’s fullest, this may be the type of camping for you. It’ll be just you and the serenity of nature. If you are going out for a few days, a light weight RV with an extra battery and a solar panel may be all you’ll need, but if you’ll be gone awhile a generator would be something to consider. In most cases, the experienced camper will just take enough supplies for a couple of days in the wilderness. You’ll want as little noise pollution as possible if you really want to experience the wonders of nature. A small light RV with an off-road package is ideal for this type of camping.

Need more information? Contact me anytime for advice and guidance with anything RV. I’d be glad to help.

Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

More Memorable Memories

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rv, , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers!

It’s that time of year when we all get ready for special gatherings with family and friends. Looking back it’s easy to see why a lifetime of memories are built around the holidays. These and other red letter days are the catalyst for what was, is and will be the story of our lives. Every special holiday gathering, birthday party and vacation experience has its own significance. So I got to thinking, what if we get intentional about creating more? Many of my most vivid memories, besides the holiday variety, took place exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. Hiking, canoeing, fishing and camping were always at the top of my “love to do list”. That’s when I’d leave behind the ordinary and discover the extraordinary. Decades after, I still carry crystal-clear pictures in my mind. That giant Northern Pike in Pickerel Cove I lost on multiple occasions. On the final attempt it snapped a heavy sea hook like it was a twig. My dad still calls it a fish story. A similar tale of a huge purple Bull Frog also comes to mind. My diligence paid off in that hunt. There were lessons to be learned as well. Like that time my mom made me keep a promise to a campground neighbor to go fishing with her and her dad. She had a crush on me and Mom knew I was playing with her emotions. Turns out her dad was a champion fly fisherman who had been written up in several magazines. We ended up having a great time. He even complimented me on how well I handled my fishing rod. You can’t make memories like that hanging around the house playing video games and watching cartoons. It all comes back to the gathering. Whether it was on the water, around the campfire or under a starlit night watching a meteor shower with friends; those are the memories that keep. So let’s make a revolution of a new year’s resolution to create more memorable memories.

Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

A Break From The Microcosm.

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rv, , , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

This week I was taken back to “Camp Ash” on Johnson’s Pond in Coventry, Rhode Island. It was the beginning of the nineteen seventies. My dad worked in the city and my mom was a full-time stay at home mom. We lived in a three-bedroom one-bathroom home on a quarter acre corner lot in the suburbs. Dad drove a nineteen seventy and a half Corvette Stingray back then. We referred to Mom’s nineteen seventy three Impala Station Wagon as “The Beach Wagon”. Money went a lot further back then, so they decided to look for a modest summertime residence for our family of five to enjoy. They eventually purchased their own slice of nature on Shady Valley Road. It wasn’t just the wonderful experiences we shared there that I appreciated. I don’t know if my parents realized it or not, but they gave me a break from the microcosm which often traps a child in sameness. My elementary school went from kindergarten to eighth grade. That’s a lot of years with the same group of kids. It wasn’t always easy. Whether my parents knew it or not, our family’s little campsite was my refuge. My summertime family of friends never put me in a box or trapped me in the illusion preserved by those grade school classmates and neighborhood peers. My first summer on the pond was a fantastic experience full of different activities and new friends. I guess Dad’s Birthday coming up caused me to take a deeper look. It doesn’t really matter if my parents knew what I was going through or not. The important thing was their decision helped make my childhood happier and healthier while fostering my appreciation for the brilliance of the great outdoors. With that said, thanks Dad! Happy Birthday and best to you in your next greatest year.

Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy