MC Fireside Chats - January 15th, 2025

MC Fireside Chats

The January 15, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats delivered an insightful discussion on the intersection of business operations, innovation, and the future of outdoor hospitality. Hosted by Brian Searl, the session brought together industry experts, including Jeff Hoffman, Brent Parker, Mia Johnson, and Mike Sorensen, each contributing their perspectives on challenges and opportunities within the campground and RV park sectors. Brian began with an acknowledgment of the show’s new format and lightheartedly commented on the chaos of setting up his studio, mentioning his attempts to improve with new additions like a fiddle-leaf fig plant. After briefly introducing the guests, Brian set the tone by highlighting the focus on business operations and management strategies. Jeff Hoffman, a recurring guest and managing member of Camp Strategy, outlined his consultancy’s role in helping campgrounds achieve profitability. Jeff emphasized that 2025 would be critical for the industry, predicting shifts in revenue streams, camper demand, and operational challenges. He highlighted trends in RV sales, noting a rise in used sales, which he attributed to tighter budgets among consumers. Jeff called for the panel’s input on how demand and revenue might evolve, especially concerning long-term and transient site utilization. Mia Johnson, a seasoned campground broker and attorney, drew from her extensive experience, explaining that in regions like the Northeast, demand for seasonal sites remains robust due to stringent regulations limiting new campground development. She elaborated on her legal and brokerage background, sharing insights into helping campground owners grow revenue and value. Mia noted a growing trend of investors entering the industry, which she believes will reshape ownership and operations in the next decade. She also stressed the importance of long-term strategic planning and leveraging software tools to optimize business decisions. Brent Parker, owner of Open Campground, shared his unique perspective as a provider of cloud-based property management software. Brent explained his observations of campgrounds transitioning from short-term to long-term stays, driven by the desire for stable income and reduced operational complexity. He described how his software allows parks to recoup costs efficiently, emphasizing flexibility in pricing models to accommodate different campground setups. His insights on the benefits of passing certain costs directly to guests resonated with the discussion. Mike Sorensen, CEO of Wild Energy, addressed the critical issue of utility metering, particularly electricity. He explained how metering benefits both campground owners and guests, providing accurate billing and reducing overall consumption. Mike shared a case study highlighting the financial advantages of implementing utility meters and the importance of regulatory compliance in billing practices. He also hinted at future developments, such as water metering, to help campgrounds manage expenses and conserve resources. The discussion delved into evolving trends in campground operations, particularly the growing divide between transient and long-term stays. Mia emphasized that conversion between these models requires thoughtful planning, considering factors like existing reservations and market demand. Jeff and Brent discussed how operational costs and revenue potential influence these decisions, highlighting the complexities of balancing profitability with guest satisfaction. Brian skillfully facilitated the conversation, adding humor and insights while steering the discussion toward critical industry topics like leveraging technology for efficiency and meeting changing consumer expectations. As the session wound down, the panelists reflected on opportunities for innovation, such as utilizing AI, modernizing Wi-Fi infrastructure, and enhancing guest experiences through smarter operational strategies. The episode concluded with a lighthearted exchange among the panelists, underscoring the camaraderie and shared passion for improving the industry. Contact details for each expert were shared, ensuring listeners could follow up for further insights. The discussion set a high bar for future episodes, promising valuable takeaways for campground owners, operators, and industry professionals alike.