Oliver’s Campers, a local business, just received a prestigious award that underscores the importance of community support and family legacy. This recognition is not just a win for the business; it reflects the deep-rooted relationships that can form between customers and hometown businesses.

Six Decades of Service and Growth

Founded in 1966 by Bob and Shirley Oliver, Oliver’s Campers began as a small side project in their backyard. Bob was initially a manager at Norwich Pharmaceuticals, and the venture started as a fun retirement project fueled by a passion for the outdoors. Over the years, the business has grown into a multi-location sales and service dealership that specializes in towable RVs and campers.

Today, Oliver’s Campers offers a wide range of new and used trailers and even rents out RVs for events and music festivals. The business has evolved significantly, first moving from a home-based operation to a standalone dealership, and now expanding its reach in markets like Syracuse and Lafayette. Its growth has been steady thanks to a focus on customer service and long-term relationships.

Family Leadership Through Generations

In 1991, ownership transitioned to Jim Oliver, the middle son of the founders. Jim moved the business to a standalone location and spent years building it into a thriving operation. His wife, Marilyn, has also played an essential role at the dealership. Their son, Andrew, is now in charge of daily operations, representing the third generation of the Oliver family at the helm.

Andrew emphasizes that the essence of Oliver’s Campers lies in its customer-focused approach, built on honesty and integrity. This model encourages returning customers, many of whom have bought campers from the same family across generations. The business operates with straightforward pricing, ensuring there are no hidden fees or haggling involved.

Overcoming Challenges and Community Engagement

Even successful businesses face challenges. In 2001, the Oliver family dealt with the loss of both Bob and Jim’s brother, David, to cancer within a short span. The business faced physical challenges as well, including devastating floods in 2005 and 2006, which impacted inventory and operational facilities. Yet, through resilience and community support, Oliver’s Campers managed to overcome these obstacles and continuously adapt to a changing market environment, such as the rise of big-box retailers and online competition.

The company is committed to the community and actively supports local events and children’s programs. Oliver’s philosophy is simple: by strengthening the community, the business becomes stronger, too. This dedication has helped them maintain a lasting bond with the customers they serve.

A Historic Recognition and Future Legacy

Recently, Oliver’s Campers was recognized as the 2026 Small Business of the Year by Commerce Chenango. This award is a testament to the business’s impact and longevity within the community. The recognition ceremony is scheduled for June 18th at the Canasawacta Country Club, where the Oliver family will receive accolades for their achievements.

This honor reflects not only the successful business model but also the family’s commitment to honesty, integrity, and customer service. As the business continues to grow and adapt, the Olivers maintain strong values that have defined their operations over the decades, ensuring future generations can build on their legacy.

What this means for you

If you visit a local small business like Oliver’s Campers, you’re supporting a community that values relationships over quick sales. When reviewing contracts or agreements related to local businesses, such as purchase agreements for goods or services, remember that you can use AI legalese decoder to decode the fine print. Understanding your rights can empower you in any transaction.

Source: https://www.evesun.com/news/stories/2026-06-12/45069/Oliver%E2%80%99s-Campers-to-be-recognized-as-the-2026-Small-Business-of-the-Year