MC Fireside Chats - April 17th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a dynamic conversation unfolded featuring insights from leaders in the outdoor hospitality industry. The session began with Brian introducing the context for the discussion, emphasizing the series’ dedication to exploring real-world experiences and strategies from campground owners and industry experts. Richard Chandler, a seasoned campground owner, shared his unique approach to business, focusing on community engagement over immediate profit. He elaborated on hosting a significant annual music festival that, while not particularly profitable, greatly enhanced community ties and visibility for his campground. Richard’s strategy revolves around providing value and enrichment to the campground experience, which he believes will pay off in the long run in terms of loyalty and reputation. Craig Alsup contributed to the conversation by discussing the transformations he has implemented at his campground. Having purchased a previously failing campground, Craig turned the business around through strategic improvements and active marketing. His efforts have resulted in increased occupancy and revenue, highlighting the potential for success with the right strategies and execution. Bobby Sorden introduced the platform Supplier Spot, designed to connect campground owners with suppliers and facilitate resource trading. This platform serves as a critical tool for improving operational efficiencies and fostering industry connections, demonstrating a significant leap towards modernizing campground operations. Candace McNamara from Staylist provided an overview of the technological advancements available to campground owners. She discussed how their platform could help streamline operations, from reservations to point-of-sale systems, and emphasized the importance of adopting technology to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. Greg Emmert, co-founder at Camp Strategy, offered consultancy insights, focusing on the potential for campgrounds to increase revenue by leveraging underutilized assets. Greg’s advice centered on custom solutions that address the specific needs and potential of each campground, advocating for a tailored approach to business improvements. Throughout the discussion, the speakers shared personal anecdotes and strategies, enriching the conversation with practical advice and real-life examples. The importance of community-focused activities was a recurring theme, with Richard detailing his approach to hosting events that, while not immediately profitable, build long-term value for guests and the broader community. Marketing strategies were also a focal point, with Craig discussing how targeted advertising and community engagement helped fill his sites. Bobby’s platform, Supplier Spot, was highlighted as a valuable resource for finding and utilizing suppliers effectively, illustrating the benefits of networked solutions in the industry. Technology’s role in modernizing campground operations was emphasized by Candace, who pointed out the various ways campground owners can integrate systems to enhance efficiency and guest satisfaction. Greg supported this by detailing how consulting can help identify profitable improvements that align with a campground’s unique characteristics and market position. The episode wrapped up with a broader discussion on the financial aspects of running a campground, with Richard candidly sharing his financial strategies and future goals. The conversation also touched on innovative ideas like selling back solar energy, showcasing the diverse and evolving nature of campground management challenges and solutions.