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Business ownership constantly changes in every industry, including the RV industry. It’s often impossible to keep up with who owns what brands, especially some of the smaller players in the game. However, Blue Compass RV’s acquisition of Coach-Net didn’t go unnoticed.
Today, we’re examining these two brands and what the acquisition could mean for them and their current and future customers.
Let’s dive in and get started!
Who Is Blue Compass RV?
If the name Blue Compass RV doesn’t sound familiar, there’s a reason. The company was formerly known as RV Retailer LLC, known for being one of the fastest-growing brands in the RV industry.
RV Retailer LLC started in June 2018 and grew to offer more than 15,000 new and used RVs and more than 1,000 service bays. They sold over 120,000 RVs in just four years and grew to 106 stores in 33 states.
In early 2023, RV Retailer LLC announced the launching of a new RV lifestyle brand, Blue Compass RV. The brand would roll out to the company’s more than 100 dealerships and create a consistent brand nationwide.
Jon Ferrando, founder, president, and CEO of Blue Compass RV described the company’s purpose as “helping customers navigate their RV adventures across America while creating lasting memories with their families and friends.”
What Is Coach-Net?
Coach-Net is a roadside assistance provider that offers services for recreational vehicles. The company started in 1987 and has its headquarters in Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
Coach-Net customers enjoy 24/7 roadside assistance, access to 40,000 roadside assistance providers, and travel assistance. As a whole, the company provides feelings of security to travelers during their adventures.
The company offers assistance with common roadside issues like tire changes, lockouts, and towing. Members can also access trip planning guides, maintenance tips, and online support.
It’s one of the most popular names for RV roadside assistance and has more than 30 years of experience in the RV industry.
How Much Does Coach-Net Cost?
Coach-Net currently offers two membership plans, Premier Coach ($249) and Premier Tow ($179).
As you can imagine, Premier Tow covers all types of towable RVs, including truck campers. On the other hand, Premier Coach is for RVers in Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes.
Many RVers happily pay their annual membership fees to ensure they won’t be left alone during an emergency. Whether hitting the road to travel full-time or enjoying shorter adventures, you might consider getting this membership.
How Does the Acquisition Affect Coach-Net Subscribers?
If you’re a Coach-Net subscriber, it’s natural to have some concerns. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Right?
According to a press release from RV Business, Blue Compass says, “Coach-Net will continue to operate as a separate business supporting all customers of Coach-Net under its relationships with OEMs, RV rental partners, dealers, and individuals.”
We’ve seen and heard similar statements following business transactions in the past. Unfortunately, not everyone keeps their promises, and some management groups made significant changes.
We’re crossing our fingers that Blue Compass RV is being truthful in its statement. If so, subscribers for Coach-Net shouldn’t notice any significant changes, except maybe some logos on paperwork and marketing materials.
Other RV Roadside Assistance Providers
Thankfully, if things go south, Coach-Net isn’t the only RV roadside assistance provider. Let’s look at a few other options you might want to consider.
Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Good Sam Roadside Assistance is a subsidiary of Good Sam Enterprises. They provide emergency roadside services for recreational vehicle owners at a budget-friendly price.
RVers who experience emergencies or breakdowns while on the road can contact them for help. Their services include 24/7 roadside assistance, towing, tire changes, jump-starts, lockout services, fuel and fluid delivery, and more.
Whether you travel full-time or not, the company’s roadside assistance plans meet the needs of different RV owners and their circumstances.
Plans range from basic to more comprehensive coverage for multiple vehicles and additional services. Packages start at $65 for standard coverage and $120 for platinum complete coverage.
Good Sam Roadside Assistance also offers trip interruption coverage, which can help RV owners with the costs of lodging, transportation, and meals in case of a breakdown that causes a delay in their travel plans.
Read More: Learn more about Good Sam Roadside Assistance and What Makes it Unique
Escapees Roadside Assistance
Escapees Roadside Assistance (ERA) is an optional program for Escapees RV Club members. The club partners with Saferide Motor Club to provide members with ERA. It’s available in the United States and Canada for $109 annually.
The club claims it provides the highest level of roadside assistance for RVers. Members can access unlimited towing services, mobile mechanic services, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services.
In addition to many emergency services, the program provides trip interruption coverage and hotel and rental discounts for members.
This option is worth considering if you’re already an Escapees RV Club member.
AAA Plus RV and Premier RV
Many people use AAA’s roadside assistance for their personal vehicles. Unfortunately, RVs typically don’t fall under the coverages for these plans.
As a result, you’ll need to add on AAA’s Plus RV or Premier RV. It has no clear pricing structure for these plans as it bases them on your unique situation and history.
These coverage plans are some of the best in the industry and provide assistance with towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, locksmith services, and more.
One of the biggest benefits is the double extrication service. You never know when or where you’ll get stuck; sometimes, a single tow truck won’t do the job. These plans provide the services of a second truck and operator for an hour.
Keep in Mind: Is the AAA RV Insurance Any Good? Let’s dive in!
Is Coach-Net Worth It Now?
Coach-Net has an excellent reputation in the RV community and a history of exceptional service. We have no indications to abandon ship when it comes to the service.
We’ll give Blue Compass RV the benefit of the doubt that they’ll allow Coach-Net to continue flourishing. However, we’ll let you know if we see any indications that they’re going back on their word.
But if you want to look into other RV roadside assistance plans, consider the above options. How do you feel about Blue Compass’s new acquisition?
AAA failed us when we went into a ditch in Alabama trying to pull out of a skinny driveway after stopping for fuel. We called and they said they would send someone and they should be there in 20 minutes. No one showed up. When we called back they said they couldn’t find anybody to send, but they never called back to tell us that. We could call whoever we wanted and they would reimburse us $500. Imagine how far $500 went towards pulling our 40’ fifth wheel out of a ditch.