Not every great business idea starts with a perfect plan. For Garr Russell, founder of Fireside RV Rental, his journey into franchising began with a simple Craigslist ad after his wife decided she wasn’t a fan of RV camping. That moment of disappointment turned into an unexpected opportunity, leading to a company that now has over 55 franchise locations.
On Emerging Franchise Brands, Garr shares how Fireside RV Rental operates as a vacation rental management company—but for RVs instead of homes. Unlike traditional RV rental businesses, franchisees don’t need to own their own RVs. Instead, they manage other people’s assets, turning idle RVs into revenue-generating rental units. This model creates a win-win for owners who want to offset costs and for renters who get to enjoy RV life without the burden of ownership.
Garr also opens up about his franchising journey, including the transition from a business opportunity model to a full-fledged franchise system. He highlights the importance of resilience, finding the right franchisees, and building a supportive community within his brand. His advice for aspiring franchisees? Look beyond the financials and evaluate the strength of the franchisee network—because community is key to success.
April 12, 2025
