MC Fireside Chats

In the September 4th, 2024 edition of MC Fireside Chats, guest host Mark Koep filled in for Brian Searl and welcomed a panel of outdoor hospitality experts, including Jeff Hoffman, Sandy Ellingson, Scott Bahr, Mike Harrison, and special guest Luisana Méndez from Huellas Latinas. The episode explored key topics in the outdoor hospitality industry and community engagement. Luisana Méndez, the leader of Huellas Latinas, a Minnesota-based nonprofit, shared how her organization promotes outdoor activities within the Latino community. Huellas Latinas helps immigrants and refugees overcome language barriers, transportation issues, and lack of information to experience outdoor recreation. Luisana noted that many newcomers to the U.S. prioritize work and education initially, with recreation often falling to the background. As they settle in, Huellas Latinas helps them find confidence in outdoor activities by offering guidance on navigating parks, safety, and proper gear, especially for Minnesota’s cold winters. Luisana emphasized that Huellas Latinas primarily serves the first generation of immigrants from various Latin American countries. While they all share a common language, cultural differences add complexity to the group’s dynamic. Mark Koep inquired about funding, and Luisana shared that Huellas Latinas is supported by contracts with parks and agencies, along with grants like the one received from Together Outdoors. She also highlighted the importance of the organization in creating a sense of belonging for the Latino community through outdoor experiences. The conversation transitioned to industry trends, where Sandy Ellingson discussed concerns over a projected 55% drop in RV travel during Labor Day weekend, based on RV Industry Association data. Although some parks had successful weekends, there was a significant decline in bookings for the fall season, especially with snowbirds delaying their travel due to election-related anxieties. Mike Harrison echoed this, saying that while their luxury RV and glamping properties performed well, the overall industry is facing slower growth compared to previous years. Scott Bahr highlighted a growing disconnect between outdoor recreation enthusiasts and campground stays. He noted an increase in trail usage, yet campgrounds aren’t seeing proportional growth. This gap, according to Scott, represents a key opportunity for the outdoor hospitality industry to better engage with this group, perhaps through more strategic marketing. Mike and Jeff Hoffman discussed broader market conditions, with Mike pointing out a potential oversupply of parks built during the pandemic. He stressed the importance of maintaining good operations, as only the well-run parks will thrive as the market slows. Jeff predicted a shakeout in the industry, where those relying on overinflated demand may struggle. The group also touched on the growing glamping trend ahead of the glamping show. Scott and Mike expressed enthusiasm for the event, where they’ll present industry insights. Sandy, while a fan of glamping, warned that it’s becoming a competitor to traditional campgrounds, as travelers are often choosing the convenience of glamping over RV or tent camping. The session concluded with a forward-looking discussion, with panelists predicting challenges and opportunities in the coming months, including industry shifts and trends in winter camping. Overall, the episode highlighted both concerns, such as slowing RV travel, and opportunities for growth, especially in reaching new and diverse communities through innovative outreach.

The August 28th, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, featured an engaging discussion with four industry experts: Eleonore Hamm, Mark Fawcett, Andrea Pierantozzi, and Aaron Pfadt. The episode focused on various aspects of the RV, boating, and outdoor hospitality industries, providing valuable insights and perspectives. Eleonore Hamm introduced herself as the President of the RV Dealers Association of Canada (RVDA), highlighting the association’s role in representing nearly 400 RV dealers across Canada. She emphasized the importance of education, government relations, and industry intelligence in supporting the RV industry. Mark Fawcett, representing Earth Cruiser Australia, detailed his company’s manufacturing of high-end, off-road motorhomes designed for remote, off-grid adventures. He discussed the challenges and innovations in producing vehicles that are lightweight, durable, and capable of navigating extreme environments. Mark also shared stories of Earth Cruiser’s commitment to customer service, including providing support in remote locations. Andrea Pierantozzi from the Recreational Boating Association of Washington (RBAW) talked about her role in advocating for the rights and interests of recreational boaters. She explained the association’s efforts in ensuring that tax dollars are properly allocated to maintain and improve boating facilities and access, drawing parallels between the needs of boaters and RVers. Aaron Pfadt, founder of Off Highway Van, discussed his company’s focus on manufacturing high-quality, customizable Class B RVs. He highlighted the importance of direct-to-consumer sales and the challenges of maintaining high standards in a competitive market. Aaron also touched on the crossover between the RV and boating industries, particularly in the adoption of advanced technologies and customer service practices. Throughout the episode, the speakers explored the synergies between the RV and boating industries, particularly in the areas of customer service, technological innovation, and the need for adequate facilities and infrastructure. They also discussed the challenges posed by economic conditions and the strategies their respective organizations are employing to navigate these challenges. The episode concluded with each guest sharing where viewers can learn more about their respective organizations, and Brian announcing that he will be away for the next two weeks, with guest hosts stepping in during his absence.

In the August 14th, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a dynamic discussion unfolded around the outdoor hospitality industry, focusing on the glamping sector. The episode featured a panel of industry experts including Chris Jeub, Angele Miller, Derry Green, Miguel Huerta, and Zach Stoltenberg, each bringing unique perspectives and insights on how to succeed in this rapidly growing market. Angele Miller, co-founder of Creekside RNR Glamping, spoke about her award-winning resort in Atlantic Canada and its expansion across Canada and the United States. She highlighted the importance of branding and creating distinctive guest experiences that set her glamping sites apart from others. Angele discussed the strategies her company employs to attract a diverse clientele and how they plan to scale their brand while maintaining the quality and uniqueness of each location. Zach Stoltenberg, Director of Outdoor Hospitality at Clockwork, an architecture firm, provided insights into the architectural side of glamping. He discussed the importance of design in creating memorable experiences for guests, emphasizing that the physical environment plays a crucial role in guest satisfaction. Zach also shared how his firm has adapted to the unique demands of glamping projects, which often require innovative and sustainable design solutions to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. Chris Jeub, who operates Monument Glamping in Colorado, talked about his journey into the glamping industry and how he has built his brand by connecting with other operators. Chris emphasized the importance of being adaptable and open to learning from others in the industry. He shared how his brand evolved over time, from a simple backyard setup to a recognized glamping destination, highlighting the value of hands-on experience and continuous improvement. Miguel Huerta, President of the Mexican Glamping Association, offered a perspective from Latin America, discussing the growth of the glamping industry in Mexico. He spoke about how the region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes provide a unique opportunity for glamping operators. Miguel emphasized the role of social media in marketing these experiences, noting that effective use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok can significantly boost visibility and bookings for glamping sites. Derry Green, owner of The Secret Garden Glamping in the UK, shared his inspiring story of how he turned a simple lockdown project into one of the most successful glamping businesses in the country. Derry highlighted the importance of authenticity in social media marketing, explaining that content reflecting the genuine guest experience resonates more with audiences than polished promotional materials. He also discussed his innovative approach to using TikTok as a testing ground for content, which he then amplifies on other platforms like Facebook and Instagram to reach a broader audience. The conversation delved into the challenges of attracting guests during off-peak times, with Derry explaining how he targets specific demographics, such as women between the ages of 35 and 45, to fill midweek bookings. He discussed the importance of designing glamping units that can accommodate groups, as this flexibility helps to attract a wider range of guests, including families and multigenerational groups. Miguel added to the discussion by talking about the importance of setting and meeting guest expectations. He explained that in the glamping industry, providing an exceptional experience is key to success, as guests are looking for more than just accommodation—they are seeking unique and memorable experiences. Miguel also shared his vision for the future of glamping in Latin America, where he sees significant potential for growth as more travelers seek out alternative forms of accommodation. Throughout the discussion, the panelists agreed on the necessity of continuous innovation in the glamping industry. They emphasized that staying ahead of trends and being responsive to guest feedback are essential for long-term success. The importance of social media as a tool for building brand awareness and driving bookings was a recurring theme, with all the speakers acknowledging that platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are indispensable in today’s marketing landscape. In his closing remarks, Brian Searl reiterated the value of collaboration within the industry, encouraging glamping operators to share knowledge and support each other. He highlighted that by working together, the industry can continue to grow and provide exceptional experiences for guests. Each speaker echoed this sentiment, expressing their willingness to help others in the industry and to continue learning from their peers. The episode concluded with a strong sense of optimism about the future of glamping. The panelists expressed their excitement about the possibilities ahead and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what outdoor hospitality can offer. They all agreed that the industry’s focus on unique, personalized experiences will continue to attract a growing number of travelers seeking something different from traditional accommodation options.

In the MC Fireside Chats episode on August 7th, 2024, hosted by Brian Searl, the discussion primarily focused on adapting business strategies in the outdoor hospitality industry amid changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions. Initially, the episode saw a humorous start with Brian joking about how he and Scott Bahr could have monopolized the conversation due to other scheduled guests like Mark Koep, Jeff Hoffman, and Sandy Ellingson having conflicts, though Jeff eventually joined the discussion. As the chat progressed, Scott elaborated on the significance of data in understanding and responding to how weather impacts customer decisions, especially highlighting the differences between RVers and tent campers in their likelihood to change plans due to weather conditions. This led into a deeper exploration of how campgrounds can leverage this information to enhance their services, such as offering weather-specific accommodations or flexible booking policies to accommodate last-minute changes. Jeff Hoffman later contributed to the conversation by emphasizing the importance of adapting to customer needs during unpredictable weather, suggesting that campgrounds could introduce options like weather insurance to retain customers who might otherwise cancel their plans. He also shared insights on how campgrounds can maintain engagement with guests through indoor activities or alternative lodging options like cabins or glamping setups when bad weather deters traditional camping. Sandy Ellingson added her perspective on the industry trends, particularly pointing out the strategic necessity for campground owners to be more accommodating and proactive in their marketing efforts. She discussed how understanding and reacting to shorter booking windows and regional travel preferences can help businesses remain competitive and attractive to a customer base that is increasingly looking for flexibility and convenience in their travel plans. The episode encapsulated a wide range of strategies for campground owners to consider, from immediate responses to weather changes to longer-term adjustments in marketing and customer engagement practices. Each speaker brought a unique viewpoint, collectively underscoring the need for agility and forward-thinking in the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality.

In the July 31st episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, the discussion brought together Pier Tognazzini, founder and COO of MooVert France, and Dustin Sauer, owner of Overland Van Project, to delve into the evolving trends in outdoor hospitality, sustainable tourism, and the growing van life movement. Brian Searl kicked off the episode by acknowledging the uniqueness of the discussion, as it was one of those rare “fifth-week” episodes without the usual lineup of regular guests. Instead, this episode featured a deep dive into niche areas of outdoor hospitality, beginning with Pier Tognazzini. Pier introduced MooVert France, a company dedicated to promoting tourism in France through an eco-friendly and authentic lens. He emphasized MooVert France’s commitment to helping accommodations transition into more sustainable practices by using an algorithm that evaluates properties based on their level of eco-friendliness, sustainability, and authenticity. Pier explained that MooVert is not just about reducing environmental impact but also about offering tourists an experience that goes beyond the typical attractions, allowing them to connect deeply with local culture, heritage, and nature. He provided examples of how MooVert curates these experiences, such as offering stays in tree houses, tiny homes, and even traditional French chateaux. Pier also discussed how MooVert helps property owners make small but impactful changes, such as installing water-saving devices, to enhance sustainability without compromising guest comfort. The conversation also touched on the importance of authenticity, with Pier explaining that MooVert prioritizes experiences that allow travelers to engage with local traditions and communities, such as making cheese in Normandy or harvesting honey in the Alps. Dustin Sauer then introduced Overland Van Project, which specializes in creating high-end, custom expedition vehicles and camper vans designed for those seeking adventure and luxury on the road. Dustin shared the origins of his company, which began as a personal project but quickly grew into a thriving business as demand for custom vans surged during the pandemic. He highlighted how the van life movement, amplified by social media and the hashtag #vanlife, has evolved from a niche lifestyle into a significant trend within the outdoor industry. Dustin discussed the challenges and opportunities within the current market, noting that while there has been a plateau in demand following the pandemic boom, there is still a strong interest in high-quality, custom-built vans. He emphasized the importance of innovation and craftsmanship in differentiating Overland Van Project from other builders, with a focus on integrating advanced features such as hydronic heating systems, high-end electrical setups, and luxury finishes that cater to the specific needs of their clients. Despite the market becoming saturated with both DIY and commercially produced vans, Dustin remains optimistic, citing the enduring appeal of van life and the desire for off-the-grid, self-sufficient travel experiences. The conversation between the three touched on the intersection of sustainability and the outdoor lifestyle. Dustin noted that many of his clients, despite investing in luxury vans, prefer to camp in remote, free locations like BLM lands, rather than traditional RV resorts. This aligns with the growing trend towards authentic, nature-based experiences that Pier’s company, MooVert, also champions. The guests and Brian discussed how this shift reflects broader changes in consumer behavior, where travelers are increasingly seeking out unique and meaningful experiences rather than conventional tourist activities. A significant portion of the discussion was devoted to the challenges of marketing to niche audiences in a competitive landscape dominated by large platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. Pier and Dustin both emphasized the importance of authenticity in their marketing efforts, whether through social media engagement or creating compelling content that resonates with their target audiences. They acknowledged the difficulties small businesses face in standing out, but also highlighted the potential of social media and viral content to level the playing field. Brian also brought up the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in helping small businesses enhance their marketing strategies and reach. He expressed optimism about how AI could assist companies like MooVert France and Overland Van Project in creating more tailored and effective marketing campaigns, thereby connecting with their niche audiences more efficiently. The episode wrapped up with final thoughts from Pier and Dustin on the future of their respective industries. Pier expressed enthusiasm about the potential expansion of MooVert France into North America, hinting at ongoing discussions with state governments in Nevada and California. Dustin, on the other hand, reiterated his commitment to pushing the boundaries of van design and continuing to provide exceptional, high-quality products for his clients. Overall, this episode of MC Fireside Chats provided a rich exploration of the current trends and future directions in outdoor hospitality, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, authenticity, and the evolving desires of modern travelers. The insights shared by Pier Tognazzini and Dustin Sauer offered valuable perspectives on how businesses can adapt and thrive in this dynamic and competitive industry.

In the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, the focus was on the RV industry, featuring an engaging panel of guests including Shane Devenish from the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA), Susan Carpenter from the RV Women’s Alliance (RVWA), and Angie Diedrich from the Wisconsin RV Dealers Alliance. Brian opened the show with his signature enthusiasm, highlighting the relevance of this fourth week focused on the RV industry. The conversation began with an introduction of the guests, where Susan Carpenter discussed the RV Women’s Alliance. Susan explained how RVWA supports women in the male-dominated RV industry by offering empowerment, education, and networking opportunities. She mentioned the upcoming Women’s Equality Day event, a collaborative effort between multiple RV organizations, aimed at celebrating and supporting women in the industry. Shane Devenish introduced himself, sharing insights about CRVA’s role in supporting manufacturers and suppliers within Canada’s RV industry. He expressed pride in the association’s support for RVWA during their annual camping and RV show. Shane highlighted the collaborative spirit within the Canadian RV industry, emphasizing how various stakeholders work together for mutual benefit, a stark contrast to his experiences in the U.S. Angie Diedrich then took the spotlight, explaining the unique structure of the Wisconsin RV Dealers Alliance, which was formed to address the lack of regulation and dealer protection within the state. She detailed their primary role in lobbying for legislation that protects dealer rights and supports succession planning for family-owned businesses. Angie proudly announced the recent passage of a dealer protection law in Wisconsin, effective October 1, which mandates a 90-day notice and valid reason before a manufacturer can terminate a dealership agreement. The discussion then shifted to broader industry trends and challenges. Angie shared insights about the changing dynamics within the industry post-COVID, including the entrance of larger dealerships and auto dealers into the RV market. This shift has brought about new challenges and opportunities for smaller, family-owned businesses. Brian and Shane delved into the economic aspects affecting the RV industry. Shane noted the impact of rising interest rates and inflation on manufacturers and consumers. He highlighted the challenges faced during the pandemic, particularly supply chain issues, but also expressed optimism about the future, citing recent interest rate cuts in Canada as a positive development for the industry. The conversation took an interesting turn when Brian speculated about the possible reasons for the variations in RV prices across different states. The panel discussed factors like freight costs, sales tax differences, and regional economic conditions. Shane mentioned the importance of local suppliers for Canadian manufacturers, while Angie discussed Wisconsin’s relatively low sales tax and its impact on RV sales. Towards the end of the show, the panel addressed the challenges faced by new associations like Angie’s in building membership and engaging members. Angie emphasized the importance of demonstrating the value of membership to dealers, especially in terms of legislative protection and support. Brian wrapped up the episode on a positive note, asking each guest to share something they were excited about in the industry. Shane mentioned the upcoming induction of Terry Eligh from Triple E Motorhomes into the RV/MH Hall of Fame, a significant honor for the Canadian RV industry. Susan highlighted the RV Women’s Alliance’s upcoming Women’s Equality Day celebration, a collaborative event bringing together multiple RV organizations to support and celebrate women in the industry. Angie discussed the next legislative goal for her organization, which is to work on sales tax exemption for out-of-state customers, a challenging but important task for Wisconsin dealers. Overall, the episode provided a comprehensive look at the current state of the RV industry, highlighting the challenges, successes, and future directions as seen by industry leaders.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, several key figures in the outdoor hospitality industry gathered to share their insights and experiences. The discussion aimed to provide valuable perspectives for business owners and entrepreneurs in enhancing operations and guest experiences. Alan Kahn and Jeff Hoffman, emphasized the importance of strategic consulting in the industry. He discussed their roles in helping campground owners navigate the complexities of business operations and strategic planning, ensuring that parks are well-positioned for success in a competitive market. Tom Mason, shared his experiences managing RV parks across the United States. He spoke about the challenges and successes of operating nationwide, highlighting the strategies his team employs to optimize revenue and enhance the overall camper experience at their managed properties. Dave King, provided a personal narrative on his lifelong involvement with his family’s RV park. He detailed the park’s history, starting from its inception in 1966, and discussed how it has been recognized consistently as one of the country’s premier destinations. King emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards and continuously adapting to meet guest expectations. Greg Emmert discussed the shifting dynamics in the industry and how consultants play a crucial role in helping businesses adapt and thrive. His insights into operational strategies and the need for ongoing adaptation were aimed at helping campground owners stay relevant and profitable. The panel also delved into the impact of technological advancements on the industry. They discussed how innovations in reservation systems, guest management software, and on-site amenities have revolutionized the way campgrounds operate and serve their guests. A significant part of the discussion focused on the economic aspects of running RV parks and campgrounds. The speakers shared their observations on market trends, including the fluctuating demand in camping and how it affects business strategies. They also explored the implications of economic downturns and how to position their businesses for resilience. Sustainability and environmental stewardship were key themes, with speakers discussing how integrating green practices into their operations has not only reduced their environmental impact but also appealed to eco-conscious consumers. They shared examples of sustainable practices that have been successful in their parks. The importance of community engagement and customer service was a recurring topic. The speakers emphasized how creating a strong sense of community and maintaining high levels of customer service are essential for repeat business and positive word-of-mouth. Looking forward, the panelists discussed the future of outdoor hospitality. They speculated on upcoming trends, including the increasing integration of technology in guest experiences and the continuous push towards more sustainable practices. They also considered the potential changes in consumer behavior post-pandemic and how this would affect the industry. As the industry continues to evolve, the insights from this episode of MC Fireside Chats provide valuable lessons and strategies for industry professionals looking to enhance their operations and guest experiences. This rich exchange of ideas showcased the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of RV and campground management.

Hosted by Brian Searl, this edition of MC Fireside Chats delved into the nuances of outdoor hospitality with a focus on point-of-sale (POS) systems and group camping dynamics. Guests included Scott Bahr, Casey Cochran, Jeff Hoffman, Sandy Ellingson, Mike Harrison, and Amir Harpaz, each bringing their expertise from various corners of the RV and camping industry. The episode kicked off with introductions from the recurring guests who outlined their roles and current projects. Sandy Ellingson highlighted a new app launch, aimed at enhancing RV and campground interactions. The guests briefly touched on their experiences with booking and managing group camping, an ongoing challenge in the industry that demands innovative solutions. Amir Harpaz initiated the conversation on POS systems, emphasizing the need for integration with property management systems (PMS) to streamline operations within campgrounds. This led to a broader discussion on the best practices for implementing POS systems that cater to both small snack bars and full-scale restaurant operations within campgrounds. Scott Bahr shared insights from recent research focusing on the dynamics of group camping. He noted that group campers are particularly loyal and enjoy the social aspect of camping with friends or family. The discussion then shifted to the logistical challenges of accommodating groups, including booking processes and site management. Casey Cochran from Campspot shared how their software aids in managing group bookings more efficiently. Mike Harrison discussed the luxury RV resort perspective, emphasizing the importance of upscale amenities and seamless service integration. He also touched on how technology, like NFC wristbands, although not universally popular, can enhance the guest experience by facilitating easy access and payments. Guests discussed operational challenges associated with POS systems, like integration complexities and the balance between tech-enhanced guest service and traditional camping experiences. Jeff Hoffman and Sandy Ellingson highlighted the need for campground owners to stay abreast of technological advancements to remain competitive and meet guest expectations. The conversation concluded with a look at future trends in the industry, including the growing demand for integrated technology solutions and enhanced group facilities. The experts agreed that the ability to adapt to guest needs and technological advancements will be crucial for the continued success of campground operations. Brian Searl wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to stay connected with MC Fireside Chats for more insights and discussions on evolving trends in the outdoor hospitality industry. The episode underscored the importance of community, technology, and innovation in shaping the future of camping and RV experiences.

In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, industry experts gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. The panel included Scott McGee from Rome America, Joe Moore from Morris Campground Consulting, and Rachel Williamson from KCN Campgrounds. Brian opened the discussion on a light-hearted note, introducing the guests and sharing a humorous anecdote about his sunburn, setting a friendly and engaging tone for the conversation. Scott McGee began by introducing himself and detailing Rome America’s mission to make camping accessible, particularly focusing on bridging the gap between traditional camping and glamping. He highlighted the unique natural settings of their properties, which offer an authentic yet comfortable camping experience. Scott emphasized that Rome America aims to attract a younger demographic by providing modern amenities while preserving the essence of traditional camping. Joe Moore, who has extensive experience in the industry, shared insights from his career, emphasizing the importance of creating a “wow factor” for guests. He discussed how campgrounds can leverage local attractions and partnerships to enhance the guest experience. Joe also expressed concern about large corporations potentially diminishing the personal touch in campgrounds, stressing the need to maintain a focus on guest satisfaction and unique experiences. Rachel Williamson discussed KCN Campgrounds’ focus on providing exceptional hospitality. She emphasized the importance of tailored marketing plans for each campground to ensure they highlight their unique characteristics. Rachel’s approach includes not only excellent customer service but also helping guests explore and enjoy local attractions, thus enhancing their overall experience. She underscored the value of understanding and meeting the diverse needs of guests through personalized service. The conversation then shifted towards the importance of training staff, especially seasonal workers, to provide consistent and knowledgeable service. Scott and Rachel both shared methods they use to ensure staff can recommend activities and services to guests effectively. This includes providing guides and fostering partnerships with local businesses. Scott mentioned the use of technology, such as chat programs with canned responses and AI availability, to support staff in delivering high-quality service. Joe Moore offered practical advice for campground owners facing economic challenges. He suggested conducting market studies, feasibility analyses, and competitive comparisons to identify areas for improvement. Joe stressed the importance of not just copying competitors but also adding unique value to attract and retain guests. He highlighted the need for adaptability and staying informed about industry trends to navigate economic uncertainties successfully. The panelists agreed on the necessity of maintaining strong marketing strategies and continually enhancing amenities to stay competitive. They also highlighted the importance of adaptability and staying informed about industry trends to navigate economic uncertainties successfully. The discussion underscored the significance of creating memorable experiences for guests, which can drive repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth. As the conversation progressed, Brian posed a challenging question about how to stand out in a crowded market. Scott and Rachel emphasized the importance of investing in amenities and ensuring excellent customer service. They suggested that a combination of innovative amenities and exceptional hospitality could help campgrounds differentiate themselves and attract a loyal customer base. Rachel also addressed the challenge of training work campers or seasonal workers who may not be familiar with the local area. She explained that KCN Campgrounds uses guides and encourages staff to explore local attractions themselves to provide better recommendations to guests. Scott added that keeping the learning curve small and using technology to support staff can help maintain high service standards. In conclusion, the episode highlighted the importance of creating unique and memorable experiences for campground guests. The panelists emphasized that investing in amenities, leveraging local attractions, and providing excellent customer service are crucial strategies for success. They also noted the need for continuous adaptation and staying informed about industry trends to navigate economic challenges effectively. The discussion provided valuable insights for campground owners and operators looking to enhance their offerings and stand out in a competitive market.

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, several industry leaders gathered to discuss various aspects of the glamping and outdoor hospitality industry. The panel included Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo, Todd Wynne-Parry, Alessandro van de Loo, Zach Stoltenberg, Sarah Stahl, Sarah Martin, and James Martin. Zach Stoltenberg from Clockwork, an architecture firm in Kansas City, opened the introductions, discussing his work in building glamping resorts globally. Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo, President of the Mexican Glamping Association, expressed optimism for a booming summer for glamping. Todd Wynne-Parry of Horwath HTL highlighted his consulting services for the hotel and glamping industry, focusing on the US and international markets. Alessandro van de Loo, representing a family business operating eight glamping resorts in Europe, shared his experiences and market insights. Sarah Stahl, Marketing Director for ReTreet Resort in Alabama, talked about their unique offerings and rapid expansion. Sarah and James Martin from the UK discussed their company Glawning, which specializes in glamping awnings for campervans, and their successful festival, Glampfest. The discussion then shifted to current trends and challenges in the industry. Zach Stoltenberg raised the issue of a potential slowdown in advance bookings and long-distance travel, asking if similar trends were visible in the glamping sector. Sarah Stahl reported an increase in demand at ReTreet Resort, thanks to their unique position as the only glamping site in Alabama, which has led to high occupancy rates and growing waitlists. Alessandro van de Loo noted that while occupancy was rising in Europe, guest spending on-site had decreased. Todd Wynne-Parry added insights into the broader hospitality industry, noting the impact of high credit card debt and decreased tourism. Economic conditions and their impact on glamping were also discussed. Zach Stoltenberg pointed out that glamping might benefit from being a closer and more affordable travel option during tough economic times. He emphasized that glamping tends to remain resilient because it offers a unique and appealing experience, even when other travel sectors face challenges. Sarah Stahl provided insights into the development and growth of ReTreet Resort, describing their phased approach to building, which allows them to continuously add amenities and meet customer demand. Sarah and James Martin elaborated on the evolution of Glawning, from its inception to organizing Glampfest, highlighting the importance of community and lifestyle in their business model. Miguel Ángel Huerta Vallejo discussed the importance of understanding market demand and being flexible with pricing strategies. He emphasized the need for professionalization in the industry to stay competitive. The panelists also discussed booking patterns, with Alessandro van de Loo explaining the varied booking behaviors in Europe, from early reservations to last-minute bookings, and Sarah Stahl noting that most of their bookings at ReTreet Resort occur three to six months in advance. The episode concluded with a discussion on the future of the industry and how operators can adapt to changing market conditions. The panelists agreed that while the industry faces challenges, the demand for unique outdoor experiences remains strong, and operators must stay adaptable and responsive to market trends. The conversation underscored the resilience and innovation within the glamping and outdoor hospitality sector, offering a positive outlook for its continued growth and success.