Hidden Gems: Meet Eric Miller of Tourig

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Miller.

Hi Eric, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
TOURIG actually started in 2001, we just didn’t know it at the time. The concept formed when Eric Miller and his business partner at the time commissioned their first of two adventure vehicles. “Big Red” as she was aptly named, stemmed from the need for a self-contained, over-the-road vehicle that would serve as a mobile office, hotel room and basecamps of sorts.

As traveling sales agents in the Outdoor Industry, the notion of countless airline flights and unfamiliar hotel rooms wasn’t something of interest to the larger than life characters and their fur-laden traveling companions. The concept proved to be so beneficial physically and mentally that a second rig was commissioned. “Black Beauty” appeared on the scene in 2002.

Jump ahead to 2014 and we find an older and well, more mature Eric. With family, friends and multiple fur laden traveling companions in tow, the desire for a more capable, more modern rig presents itself. With a strong yearning for adventure travel and entrepreneurial spirit in check, the modern day TOURIG was conceptualized. Starting the company and building a brand would require a strong foundation built with the right people. In the summer of 2015 walks in Paul Bulger, a long lost friend of Eric’s who’s lengthy history in a maritime profession would prove price-less in building that strong foundation.

The “Shed in Ned” as it was called was where the first-generation TOURIG’s were built. With cold winds piercing the walls, rain and snow finding its way through the pock-laden roof and the occasional mouse in the break room, the “Shed in Ned” was home for the 18 months leading up to the current headquarters in Golden, CO.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I don’t believe any new business endeavor is a smooth road, at least not if you plan to be successful long-term. During our tenure in the adventure vehicle manufacturing space, we have seen tremendous interest in the category which has ben very beneficial from a growth strategy standpoint. We also survived the COVID pandemic right as our new Golden, CO. campus was about to be completed, talk about a stressful time for everyone. This along with the pains that rapid growth presents have all been an enduring experience.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
TOURIG is the Nations Foremost Builder of High-Performance Expedition Vehicles specializing in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit platforms. Every decision here is made with the well-being of our employees, expectations of our customers and respect for our partners at the forefront. Culture is created at the heart of every decision we make. Our products exude a strong work ethic and desire to outperform. Materials are chosen and processes defined with long-lasting durability and environmental impact in mind. Our goal is to encourage the spirit of adventure.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Keep things simple and don’t get too distracted and try to overthink the design.

Pricing:

• Complete vehicles range from $149K-$300K+

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mytourig.com
• Instagram: @mytourig
• Facebook: TOURIG
• Youtube: TOURIG

Image Credits
Photos credit to Barspur Collection, Rob Watt