Linda Profaizer

Profaizer was greeted enthusiastically by the hundreds of campground owners in attendance who wanted to hear what the ARVC president and CEO had to say about the campground industry in light of local and world developments that could impact this segment of the RV industry.

Linda said, "9-11 changed us all, forever. The impact on our lives has forced us to see our priorities more clearly. Families want to be together more and we have proven that liberty and patriotism are not old-fashioned ideas … just ask the Dixie Chicks!"

Profaizer spoke of the positive things affecting our lives today and the responsibility that campground and RV resort owners have to provide a wonderful experience for RVers. She noted, "Families are looking for a way to reconnect. We are the only segment of the travel industry that truly meets the family’s goals.
  

Well Attended Exhibit Area

The new RVer wants it bigger, better, more and they want it now. They are looking for a blend of childhood memories with modern amenities. These folks are wired for plug and play."

Linda also discussed the changing trends in vacations and travel that are affecting the industry. She noted, "Families are staying closer to home and the campground industry must invest in state and regional marketing to make sure that they get their share of the RVing market. With many states suffering budget shortfalls, they will be looking toward tourism to make up the deficit."

Noting a shifting consumer paradigm, she stressed that, "our industry must be the very best that it can be. The association is focusing on the right issues and it will be making more people aware of camping in America.

Our PR programs are right on target. Camping is hot! The media exposure of the Go Camping America and Go RVing campaigns are bringing new families into our industry and you must be ready to make it a pleasant experience when they visit your parks and resorts.

We are also updating the Go Camping America and ARVC web sites to reflect the changing dynamics of our industry."

Profaizer also spoke of new partnership activity within the association. She told the audience that, "we are actively pursuing business opportunities that will drive more people your way. I’m also pleased to report that many ARVC parks will be hosting our military families this year to offset the pressures of war and loved ones who are away serving the country.

The opportunities and potential of our industry are unlimited. You need to respond to the shift in needs of your customer.

We, as an industry, have clear choices to make. We have learned what matters, and what doesn’t. A changing world requires changing action. We now have a window of opportunity and can not live in fear. We are making the best in outdoor accommodations available to our guests."

Profaizer also noted the association’s close ties to New England and the Northeast. She reminded the crowd, "ARVC started here in New England with visionary people and look what is has developed into!"

The conference also highlighted a large exhibition area where vendors sought a chance to speak directly to the campground owners about new products and services that could enhance the camping experience.

David Gorin, former ARVC President, was exhibiting with his consulting company and also highlighting the "BestParks in America" program. Gorin noted, "This is not a franchise and it is not an association. We are on target to have about 12-18 parks under contract by June. This is a marketing co-op program that will be targeting the upper end of the market. They will be top quality parks and will have exclusivity based on the size of the area they serve.

“The program will increase traffic during the shoulder seasons and mid-week. The parks associated with this program don’t have any problem filling up during peak season and on weekends.

“The brand will be advertised where they don’t normally go right now and will piggy-back on the success of the Go RVing campaign."