Camping World revenue up 33 percent in fourth quarter

Camping World Holdings Inc. based in Lincolnshire reported a 33 percent increase in revenue to $889 million for its fourth quarter.

The company posted a net loss of $52.5 million during the period that included a $99.8 million tax receivable liability adjustment to other income and $165.4 million of income taxes related to changes stemming from the U.S. tax reform enacted in December. Net loss margin was 5.9 percent and diluted earnings per share was $1.87.

"We had a very strong fourth quarter and fiscal year and are pleased with the continued performance of our business and underlying trends in the RV market," said CEO Marcus Lemonis. "Demand for towable and smaller recreational vehicles remained strong throughout 2017, and we made the strategic decision to carry a little more inventory in order to drive volumes and gain market share in the final months of the year," he said.

Lemonis said he sees a lot of similarities between the outdoor consumer and the RV consumer, and believes there is a significant opportunity to continue diversifying the business as these lifestyles converge. Over the past year, the company acquired a number of outdoor and active sports businesses for a more diverse base of outdoor lifestyle customers.

"Overton's, Gander Outdoors, TheHouse.com, Uncle Dan's, W82 and Erehwon all come with great talent, great products and a loyal customer following that we believe we can leverage over time through cross-selling and cross-promotions. We began opening our first Gander Outdoors stores in December 2017 and are pleased with the early trends, including Good Sam Club conversion rates at these stores."