The Lazy Daze factory was the production site for Lazy Daze RVs, a family-owned company founded in 1956 in Montclair, California, known for its high-quality, factory-direct Class C motorhomes. After decades of building a loyal following, the company ceased production in May 2022.
Early beginnings
The company was started in the 1950s by two high school shop teachers, Paul Newton and Harold Hamm, who built a custom slide-in truck camper.
The high demand for their quality craftsmanship led them to quit teaching and go into the RV business full-time. After Hamm's passing, Paul Newton and his brother Ed continued the company as a family-run operation.
In 1966, Lazy Daze created the first Class C motorhome.
Business model and reputation
Factory-direct sales: Lazy Daze was unusual in the industry for selling its RVs exclusively from its factory, bypassing dealerships. This approach allowed for custom orders, personalized service, and consistent pricing without dealer markups.
Built to last: The company built a reputation for its no-nonsense, high-quality construction. Instead of materials prone to delamination, Lazy Daze used aircraft aluminum panels, which were durable and easily replaceable. The interiors were also designed for practicality.
Loyal customer base: Lazy Daze didn't rely on flashy marketing, instead growing its community through word-of-mouth. This led to a large and dedicated following of owners who appreciated the craftsmanship. In its heyday, customers would place a deposit and sometimes wait up to two years for their custom-built RV.
The factory in Montclair, California
The company operated out of its factory in Montclair, where customers could visit, place orders, and even tour the facility.
The factory became a pilgrimage site for owners and prospective buyers who wanted to see firsthand the quality that went into each motorhome.
Closure of the factory
The factory and company shut down in May 2022, after more than 65 years in business.
The reasons for the closure were not publicly announced, though supply chain issues, the retirement of the owners, or a simple cash flow squeeze are possible explanations for the privately-owned company's end.
The closure marked the end of an era for the industry and the loyal community of Lazy Daze owners.