Harvest Hosts Takes Lead Mgt. Role in Escapees RV Club – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
In a message to its members, the Escapees, a 70,000-strong membership organization for RVers that offers services, programs and discounts, announced that “the management and operations of Escapees RV Club’s membership, support services, educational programs, and events will be transitioning to the Harvest Hosts family.”
The acquisition excludes the Escapees Mail Service and Escapees RV Parks, which will remain under existing management and ownership, the announcement noted.
Harvest Hosts is a membership-based organization that offers unique and memorable overnight experiences at over 9,000 locations including wineries, farms, breweries, and attractions, providing unique and interesting experiences. Joel Holland, who purchased the company in 2018 from the founders, is the CEO.
The transition announcement was signed by Cathie and Bud Carr, and their son and daughter-in-law, Travis and Melanie Carr. They represent the second and third generations, respectively, of owner/managers of the Escapees, which was founded in 1978 by Cathie Carr’s parents, Joe and Kay Peterson.
In their letter, the Carrs noted that the decision came after “much emotional reflection and heartfelt discussions about what is best for our members.”
“This decision was not made lightly, and it comes from our sincere desire for the club’s continued growth and success,” the Carrs stated.
“Our mission statement has always been ‘we are honest in everything we do.’ Today that honesty has led us to hand over the torch and let Escapees RV Club flourish. We have taken it to the highest level we can, and it is time to add more fuel in the tank and let Escapees explore the horizon ahead,” the Carrs said.
Harvest Hosts has over 60 staff members across 26 states in the U.S. and the U.K., with over 300,000 members. In addition to Holland, the leadership team includes COO Wes Clark, CFO Leigh Ann Shultz, CMO Bill Zhang, and SVP of Engineering Neel Mehta.
While noting that, over the years, other companies had expressed an interest in acquiring Escapees, the Carrs said they “never felt the devotion to shared values and instilled trust as we have with Harvest Hosts.”
“Harvest Hosts is a company that shares our values and dedication to the RV community,” the Carrs stated. “They have a strong moral compass and a philosophy centered around care and community, demonstrated by the fact that they do not charge Hosts anything. Instead, their members contribute approximately $50 million in total revenue to the Hosts, which are local businesses, ultimately funneling money back into local economies.”
In fact, Holland has been an Escapees member for several years, the Carrs pointed out, adding that he “brings a personal commitment to the community and its values.”
“His involvement in the Escapees community underscores his dedication to maintaining the core philosophies that have defined Escapees RV Club since its inception.” The Carrs stated.
“With these values and commitments,” they continued, “we are confident that Harvest Hosts will bring exciting new opportunities and benefits to you, our valued members. Their resources and innovative approach to an extensive network of unique camping locations will usher in a new era of improvements and benefits for the Escapees team. This collaboration promises fresh insights and expanded services, all while maintaining the founding philosophies of Escapees RV Club. We believe this transition will positively transform both the Escapees RV Club and Harvest Hosts brands into the best community and support network in the industry!”
The announcement also included a Frequently Asked Questions section, which in part included:
Why did Harvest Hosts acquire Escapees RV Club?
Harvest Hosts aims to build on the exceptional community foundation of Escapees. Since its inception, Escapees has united RVers, creating unique bonds. Harvest Hosts, with its platform and community of local businesses and RVers, believes that many will enjoy both programs. Over 25% of Escapees members are already Harvest Hosts members!
Is the Escapees RV Club brand going away?
Not at all! The Escapees RV Club brand is here to stay. Harvest Hosts is excited to build on the rich heritage and strong community that Escapees represents. While you’ll see some exciting new features and enhancements, the core values and vibrant spirit that define Escapees will remain unchanged. Harvest Hosts looks forward to bringing even more value and opportunities to Escapees members!
Does Harvest Hosts plan to keep the same RV community culture?
Yes! Joel Holland, Harvest Hosts CEO, has been an Escapees member for several years and attended Escapade in 2021. In addition, Harvest Hosts has been a sponsor and partner of Escapees for several years. Joel’s vision is to make campers happier by getting them on the road more often, connecting RVers with local businesses, and now, with the broader Escapees community.
What about Xscapers?
As part of the larger Escapees family, Harvest Hosts is excited to carry forward the Xscapers community! Convergences and Annual Bash will continue to be a major focus and the heart of this lifestyle group of Escapees RV Club.
Click here to read the transition announcement and FAQ section in full.
