Ultimate Escapes Hosts Online Webinar With Richard Keith

By: Destination Club News
Date: November 18, 2009

Tonight as 8:00 PM EST, Ultimate Escapes will host a live webinar for those interested in learning more about the club and the destination club experience, hosted by none other than Chairman Richard Keith.

Less than a month ago, Ultimate Escapes became the world's first publicly-traded destination club. While all facets of club membership will likely be discussed during the course of the webinar, the new Ultimate Escapes structure will also likely be mentioned.

Keith can bring an interesting perspective to the webinar, not only as one of the longest tenured executives in the destination club industry, but also as a former destination club member. One of the earliest members of Private Retreats, the world's first destination club, Keith would quickly transition to an executive role with the club, stepping in as Private Retreats' Chief Operating Officer. Private Retreats was charging approximately $250,000 to join, and Keith would envision a new, more affordable club option for those who wanted the destination club experience without the large up front costs. The outline for Private Escapes was born.

Private Escapes would grow to be the third largest club in the destination club industry, and earlier this year, Ultimate Escapes completed the acquisition of the club with Keith remaining as Chairman.

Webinars and other similar marketing ventures have quickly replaced the costly advertising programs from the industry's youth, namely print advertising in luxury newspapers and monthly publications. Equity Estates, one of the sector's fastest growing destination clubs, has announced a 20 city tour over the next 15 months to meet with potential and current members. The Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club has also made webinars a pillar in their sales and marketing structure.

Industry sales have slowed in recent years as a result of the economy and reducing sales and marketing costs has become a chief concern at many leading clubs. Discussing the benefits of membership, particularly with a club executive, has proven to be one of the most effective and efficient tools the industry has.

If you are considering destination club membership or would like to compare it to other luxury vacation options, request a free copy of our Destination Club Guide to learn more about the benefits and risks of membership and suggested due diligence questions to ask if you elect to move forward with a club.