As leaders in campground and outdoor hospitality management, Northgate Resorts has honed the art of retail merchandising to elevate the camping experience. Our expertise is not just in providing a place to stay; it’s about creating an environment where every aspect of the camper’s journey is considered. In this blog, we’ll dive into the “five R’s” of campground retail–a cornerstone of our campground management services and strategy—and share some unique insights and statistics from our operations.
1. Right Product
At Northgate Resorts, we understand the importance of curating a product range that resonates with the outdoor enthusiast. Our stores don’t only stock items – they offer a selection tailored to the camping and outdoor activities that our guests love. This translates to featuring essential vacation gear, outdoor cooking supplies, and recreational equipment that enhances the camping experience. These choices aren’t random – they’re carefully selected based on direct feedback and purchasing patterns from our campers. By continuously analyzing guest feedback and purchasing trends, we ensure that our product range meets and exceeds the expectations of our outdoor-loving community, creating a more enjoyable and fulfilling camping experience.
2. Right Place
Location and layout play a crucial role in the success of any retail operation. Our stores are strategically positioned within each campground for maximum visibility and convenience. This approach aligns with our commitment to resort property management services that prioritize guest satisfaction. For instance, after building a new store that was more visible and accessible at Jellystone Park™ at Kozy Rest, we observed a 10% increase in foot traffic and an 8% boost in sales within the first week of peak season. Similarly, optimizing the internal product placement and aligning it with the natural flow of guest movement at Jellystone Park™ Luray led to a 7% increase in impulse purchases and a smoother shopping experience.
3. Right Price
Pricing is a delicate balance. At Northgate Resorts, we aim to offer value while being mindful of the budgets of our diverse range of campers. Our pricing strategies are backed by research from the Retail Owners Institute (ROI) on gross margins in gift, novelty, and souvenir shops, thorough market research, and careful analysis through our campground financial management services. For example, after conducting a detailed market study, we adjusted the prices of our essential camping supplies, resulting in a 6% increase in overall sales without compromising guest satisfaction. This approach ensures our products are accessible, competitive, and fair, contributing to an overall positive guest experience.
4. Right Time
Seasonality is critical in the camping industry and for most outdoor hospitality businesses. Our product offerings evolve throughout the year to align with the different needs of campers. For instance, the fall/Halloween season is a very popular time to camp. During this period, it’s important to feature our cold weather merchandise like blankets, gloves, sweatshirts, etc., and fun Halloween/Fall merchandise. This proactive approach keeps us one step ahead, allowing us to meet our campers’ needs exactly when they arise.
5. Right Quantity
Inventory management is crucial in maintaining the balance between demand and supply. At Northgate Resorts, we use advanced data models and sophisticated coding as part of our campground facility management services to gain a comprehensive view of our inventory. This technology allows us to accurately forecast demand, helping us to avoid stock shortages or excesses and ensuring we have the right amount of each product at all times. Our sophisticated approach minimizes waste and maximizes efficiency–a testament to our operational excellence.
By adhering to these five R’s, we have not only optimized our camp store operations, but have significantly enhanced the camping experience overall. Our approach is data-driven and camper-focused, showcasing our commitment to excellence in the outdoor hospitality management space.