RAPID CITY, S.D. — Gateway Autoplex has expanded its lineup by becoming the exclusive Airstream dealership in South Dakota, bringing the iconic travel trailer brand to Rapid City and creating a new destination for sales and service in the region. The partnership with Airstream came after months of discussions and research. Co-owner Adam Ray said the dealership approached Airstream International about six months ago, and after completing demographic studies and market analysis, both companies agreed Rapid City was the right fit for the brand. “We’re pretty pumped about it,” Ray said, noting the new dealership is now operating at Gateway Autoplex, 123 Omaha St., where customers can shop for Airstream travel trailers alongside the dealership’s inventory of cars, trucks and SUVs.

Co-owner Scott Hanna said Airstream’s nearly 95-year history and unmatched longevity made the partnership an easy decision. He said roughly 70 percent of all Airstream trailers ever built are still on the road today, a testament to the company’s quality and craftsmanship. “They’re an iconic brand,” Hanna said. “We couldn’t be more excited to offer them not only to South Dakota, but to the surrounding states as well.” He added that the dealership has already sold units to customers from Minnesota and Tennessee, demonstrating the regional demand for the product.

In addition to selling the trailers, Gateway Autoplex now offers factory-authorized Airstream warranty and service work through its expanded service center. Hanna said the dealership fills a major gap for Airstream owners, who previously had to travel to Minneapolis or Missoula, Montana, for many service needs. The owners also believe the Black Hills is an ideal location for the brand. Hanna said the region’s tourism industry, which attracts millions of visitors each year, combined with the area’s outdoor lifestyle and proximity to destinations such as Mount Rushmore, made Rapid City a natural choice for South Dakota’s only Airstream dealership.

Unlike many RV manufacturers, Airstream trailers are built from the outside in at the company’s Ohio factory. Hanna explained that cabinetry and interior components are custom-built to fit through the trailer’s entry door, a process he said contributes to the company’s reputation for precision and high-end quality. Ray said Gateway was intentional about choosing Airstream because it offers something different from traditional RV dealerships. “It’s not just a camper,” Ray said. “It’s history. It’s been around 95 years. Everybody knows it’s iconic.” He added that Airstream’s limited production and unique identity fit well with the dealership’s philosophy of offering premium products and customer service rather than maintaining massive inventories.

To celebrate the new partnership, Gateway Autoplex will host an Airstream grand opening on Saturday, July 18, from noon to 6 p.m. The event will feature barbecue, music, games, a bounce house for children, Airstream product specialists and hourly prize giveaways from noon through 6 p.m., along with additional promotional items. The dealership also plans to showcase its full Airstream lineup throughout the event while continuing normal vehicle sales operations.