When you start researching RV brands, one of the most common questions is: who owns Coachmen RV? The answer matters because ownership affects quality, warranty support, and long-term trust in the brand. Today, Coachmen is owned by Forest River Inc., a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, one of the largest and most respected holding companies in the world. But to really understand what that means, let’s dive into the history, ownership, and reputation of Coachmen RV.
What Is the History of Coachmen RV?
Coachmen RV was founded in 1964 in Middlebury, Indiana, by brothers Tom, Keith, and Claude Corson. What started as a small, family-run business with just a dozen employees quickly grew into one of the most recognized names in recreational vehicles.
By the 1970s, Coachmen had established itself as a trusted RV manufacturer producing motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. The company became known for its balance of affordability and reliability, appealing to both first-time RVers and experienced travelers.
Who Owns Coachmen RV Today?
Coachmen RV is owned by Forest River, Inc., a division of Berkshire Hathaway. In the early 2000s, Forest River acquired Coachmen Industries’ RV group, including its brands, product lines, and main manufacturing operations.
Forest River itself is a major manufacturer in the RV industry, producing motorhomes, trailers, buses, and even commercial vehicles. Importantly, Forest River is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, the multinational conglomerate led by Warren Buffett.
This ownership structure means that Coachmen is backed by one of the most financially stable corporations in the world. For buyers, this translates into strong warranty support, large-scale manufacturing capabilities, and long-term confidence in the brand.
What Was Coachmen RV’s Previous Ownership Before Forest River?
Many RV enthusiasts still wonder if All American Group Inc (formerly Coachmen Industries, Inc.) owns Coachmen RV. The confusion is understandable because for decades, Coachmen RV was part of that company.
- Coachmen Industries Era (1964–2008):
After its founding in 1964, Coachmen grew into one of the largest RV producers in the U.S. The company expanded into other markets like modular homes and commercial vehicles. By the 1980s and 1990s, it operated under Coachmen Industries, Inc., which later became known as All American Group Inc. - Sale to Forest River in 2008:
In December 2008, Forest River acquired Coachmen RV’s recreational vehicle division from All American Group Inc. This marked a major shift, as Forest River integrated Coachmen into its existing lineup while keeping the brand identity intact. - Aftermath for All American Group:
Once the RV division was sold, All American Group exited the RV business entirely. The company focused on housing until eventually closing its doors in 2011.
The Bottom Line
Today, Coachmen RV is not owned by All American Group Inc. It is fully owned by Forest River, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company. The transition gave Coachmen access to massive resources and the backing of Warren Buffett’s corporate powerhouse, ensuring its long-term stability.
Why Did Forest River Acquire Coachmen RV?
Forest River’s acquisition was strategic. By bringing Coachmen into its portfolio, Forest River expanded its lineup with a brand that had decades of customer loyalty. Coachmen benefited from access to Forest River’s large-scale manufacturing resources, streamlined distribution, and dealer networks across North America.
For RV shoppers, this means Coachmen models are now easier to find, parts are widely available, and warranty service is backed by a strong corporate parent.
What Types of RVs Does Coachmen Make?
Coachmen manufactures a wide variety of RVs designed for different lifestyles and budgets. Some of the most popular categories include:
- Motorhomes – Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes, including the Leprechaun and Freelander lines.
- Travel Trailers – Affordable and lightweight options like the Apex Nano and Catalina series.
- Fifth Wheels – Spacious designs such as the Chaparral line.
- Toy Haulers – Built for adventurers who want to bring along ATVs, motorcycles, or gear.
This diverse range makes Coachmen a flexible choice for families, solo travelers, and full-time RVers alike.
Is Coachmen RV Considered a Good Brand?
Because Coachmen is owned by Forest River and supported by Berkshire Hathaway, it has a reputation for financial stability and long-term reliability. Customers often praise the brand for its balance of affordability and functionality.
While no RV manufacturer is perfect—issues like warranty claims and service wait times can vary—Coachmen continues to be one of the top-selling RV brands in the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions About Coachmen RV
1. Is Coachmen RV owned by Forest River?
Yes. Coachmen RV was acquired by Forest River in 2008. Forest River is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, which owns several major companies across industries.
2. Are Coachmen RVs made in the USA?
Yes. Coachmen RVs are primarily manufactured in Middlebury, Indiana, and other facilities in Michigan. This region is known as the heart of America’s RV industry.
3. How long has Coachmen been in business?
Coachmen has been in operation since 1964. That means the company has more than 60 years of experience in building recreational vehicles.
4. What is the warranty on a Coachmen RV?
Most new Coachmen RVs come with a one-year limited warranty, though specific coverage depends on the model and dealer. Extended service contracts may also be available.
How Does Coachmen Compare to Other RV Brands?
One of the most useful ways to evaluate Coachmen is by comparing it to other Forest River brands and competitors.
| RV Brand | Parent Company | Known For | Market Position |
| Coachmen | Forest River (Berkshire Hathaway) | Affordable, versatile RVs | Entry-level to mid-range |
| Forest River (main brand) | Berkshire Hathaway | Wide variety of RVs, strong dealer network | Entry-level to luxury |
| Jayco | Thor Industries | Family-friendly layouts, warranty length | Mid-range |
| Winnebago | Independent | Iconic motorhomes, quality build | Mid to high-end |
This table shows where Coachmen sits in the industry: a reliable, affordable option backed by one of the biggest corporations in the world.
Final Thoughts: Who Owns Coachmen RV and Why It Matters
So, who owns Coachmen RV? The answer is Forest River Inc., a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. This ownership provides RV buyers with peace of mind, knowing that the brand has financial strength, manufacturing resources, and long-term stability.
For shoppers, this means you’re not just buying an RV—you’re buying into a brand with more than six decades of history and the support of a Fortune 500 company. Whether you’re considering a compact travel trailer or a spacious motorhome, Coachmen offers an option that combines affordability with trusted backing.
And if you’re comparing brands, knowing the answer to “who owns Coachmen RV” is just as important as asking who owns Keystone RV or who owns Grand Design RV. Ownership tells you a lot about where your investment is going and how well it will be supported for years to come.
