June 26th, 2024, at 2 PM EST marks the next episode of MC Fireside Chats! Join us as we unveil the latest trends and offer fresh, actionable insights into the RV and Outdoor Recreation industry. Don’t miss out on this dynamic and inspiring conversation that’s sure to fuel your passion and knowledge..
Join our host, Brian Searl, as he welcomes industry leaders Phil Ingrassia, President at the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA); Eleanore Hamm, President at the RVDA of Canada; and Susan Carpenter from the RV Women’s Alliance.
We are also excited to welcome special guests Sarah Horter, owner of Tango Caravan, and Rick Layzell, CEO of Boating Ontario Association. Sarah will showcase Tango Caravan’s extensive range of products, while Rick will share the mission and initiatives of the Boating Ontario Association.
This episode is proudly sponsored by AccessParks, the premier broadband service provider serving numerous guests in RV parks, lodges, and national parks nationwide.
June 19th Episode Recap
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 Roam 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 Roam 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 Roam 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.
About MC Fireside Chats
MC Fireside Chats is a weekly show devoted to the outdoor hospitality industry. The show is hosted by Brian Searl, the founder and CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground.
Airing live every Wednesday at 2 p.m. (ET), MC Fireside Chats features guests from the camping and RV industry who share their take on the current state of the camping, glamping, and RVing sectors as well as upcoming innovations in RV parks, campgrounds, outdoor resorts, glamping, and the RV industry.
To listen to previous episodes of MC Fireside Chats, visit: https://moderncampground.com/mc-fireside-chats/