Campground Owners Expo (COE), a brand new trade show, is underway in Branson, Missouri. Kicking off on Wednesday, the first two days of the inaugural trade show were rich in learning and networking opportunities.
COE’s first day began with learning sessions geared towards helping campground owners broaden their knowledge about the industry. Sessions on improving a campground, handling finances, customer service, campground utilities, and more were held.
“Our attendees gained lots of knowledge from our great line-up of speakers! We can’t thank them all enough for sharing their morning with us here at COE,” a statement on COE’s Facebook page reads.
The halls of the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel were filled with enthusiastic attendees—a mix of prospective campground owners, those who just bought a property, and those currently building their park.
Campsot, a company that offers cloud-based campground management solutions, was present on the first day. According to a representative, most of the parks they’ve talked to have reported a good year.
“[We’re] getting really good feedback on [year-on-year] revenue increases from parks currently on the system. This has been the common theme,” a Campspot representative told Modern Campground.
Later in the day, owners explored, networked, and enjoyed each other’s company at Andy B’s where they also learned about the behind-the-scenes operation of successful Branson businesses.
The event’s second day saw the opening of the trade show where attendees enjoyed some networking, food, and drinks. Jeff Slutsky of Street Fighter Marketing was the day’s keynote speaker. He pumped up the crowd and discussed Mastering the Art of Out-Thinking, Not Out-Spending the Competition.
What followed was an awards ceremony that recognized individuals with exceptional contributions to the camping industry.
A live auction also took place. The proceeds were allocated to support the Gilbert Brown Foundation.
The first-ever Campground Owners Expo (COE) is underway at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and happens through Saturday (December 18).
Organized by Lori Severson (Severson & Associates) and Bud Styer (Bud Styer & Associates), COE aims to gather campground owners from all states where they can receive industry-specific education, learn about the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), and build a robust state association—all while exploring fun-filled Branson.
To know more about Campground Owners Expo, visit their website here.