Lippert has become a household name of the North American manufacturing industry as well as a brand synonymous with safety and quality. We find out more with Group President, Ryan Smith.
BETTERING LIVES AND EXPERIENCES
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 industry-leading 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 precision-engineered 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 hard-working 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, 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 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.
“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.
“We take concrete steps toward sustainability by investing in eco-friendly practices and prioritizing high-quality recycled materials, particularly in our packaging”
Ryan Smith, Group President, Lippert Components
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 eco-friendly 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.
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.
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 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.
LIPPERT COMPONENTS PARTNERS
