Critical information for new and existing park operators will be presented at the 2022 Florida and Alabama Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo, which takes place June 6-8 at The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach, Florida.
“As the RV park business continues to expand, we’re seeing a growing need to provide as much information as we can, not only for newcomers but for existing park operators who want to improve their businesses, adopt the industry’s best practices and prepare for the future,” said Bobby Cornwell in a press release. He is the executive director of the Florida and Alabama RV Park and Campground Association.
The three-day conference and tradeshow will kick off with a welcome by association officials and media personality Janine Stange, the first person to sing the national anthem in all 50 states. Stange will deliver an inspirational talk on how failure and tragedy led her to embrace an uncommon path to success.
During the conference, motivational speaker Eric Papp will provide a keynote address titled “Lead with Certainty: Managing People, Not Promises,” which will focus on how to improve communication and team performance and create a culture of ownership.
The event will include a mix of cracker barrel sessions and educational seminars as well as updates on the latest business trends and legislation affecting park operators in Florida and Alabama.
Nichole Poisson, franchise development manager for Kampgrounds of America, Inc. will be present to discuss industry trends and insights from KOA’s latest North American Camping Report. Also attending are officials from RVShare, KOA, Visit Florida, and the Florida RV Travel Association to tackle challenges, opportunities, and trends involving the campground and RV industries, both today and in the future.
One of the cracker barrel discussions will dive into how to get started in the private park business. The portion will be moderated by representatives from Campground Consulting Group, EOB Consulting, and Southeastern Resort Development. Question and answer sessions will include everything from business plans to securing local government approvals to construction and development do’s and don’ts.
Several speakers will also provide tips on things to include in park policies, rules and regulations; how to find affordable insurance; things to know about ADA regulations and service animals; as well as things to be aware of concerning taxes and sub-metering of utilities.
One of the educational sessions titled “Mitigating Risks and Lowering Insurance Costs” will be led by Irene Jones of Marshall & Sterling.
During “Emergency Preparedness” by Patrick Hardy of Hytropy, Hardy will discuss how to prepare for a wide range of emergencies, from power outages and sewage spills to natural disasters and other emergencies.
Meanwhile, Heidi Doyle of Utility Supply Group will discuss how to prepare your park for rising numbers of electrical vehicles during her session titled “The EVs are Coming. Is Your Park Ready?”
Re-Imaging Your Park, by Rachel Godbout, will discuss the pros and cons of short-term versus long-term guests and rentals and why you may want to consider adjusting your rates and business model.
Another session will be led by David Eastman and Marc Dunbar where they will discuss hurdles being faced by Florida’s RV park business. They will also provide updates on the association’s areas of focus for the coming legislative session. Florida Congresswoman Elizabeth Fetterhoff will make a guest appearance at the session.
The conference will also feature association updates by Chairman Thomas Sparrow, tips from publicist Jeff Crider on how to increase exposure for your park as well as social events, and the association’s annual meeting and tradeshow, which will feature 70 vendors and exhibitors.
To register to attend the conference, please visit www.rvparkconference.com.
I’m excited about the Florida and Alabama Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo! It’s a fantastic opportunity to mingle, share ideas, and pick up practical skills to boost our RV park businesses. Let’s connect, learn, and stay ahead in the ever-changing outdoor hospitality industry.