While it is not possible to keep tabs on everything that is going on in the timeshare space, you can find out what’s coming and what’s going out. The most notable announcements in the last twelve months include a rebranding of Fairfield Vacation Club as Fairfield New Orleans at La Belle Maison and the re-opening of the La Belle Maison at a new location in the French Quarter. Aside from the resorts, the company has acquired the adjacent Franklin Printing building and is set to redevelop it into a 119 unit timeshare resort in the works. It’s a bold move, but one that is well-received in the industry.
During the holidays, the company also announced plans to launch a new points-based timeshare product called Holiday Vacation Club. In addition to the novelty item, the company is set to expand its footprint in the United States with the addition of a number of franchisees.
With a whopping 867,000 members at the end of the year, it’s safe to say that the timeshare juggernaut is alive and kicking. Not to mention, the company is currently negotiating a number of high-profile acquisitions and leases.
What’s on the table is a company that will be a thorn in the side of many competitors, from luxury hotels to the world’s largest RV producer. Among the highlights of the re-launch is a slew of new amenities for owners and guests including a motorcoach network, state-of-the-art golf course, a new kids’ club and a slew of new rental properties. For instance, Fairfield has already acquired several properties along the Mississippi river including the Grand Hotel in downtown St. Louis. This is only the beginning. Several other deals are in the works, including a deal with the hotel chain tying the knot in a big way, and a potential partnership with an upstart in the hospitality business. If it doesn’t work out, the deal will be canceled.
Despite the many changes, the company still has a lot to offer, with its flagship resort, Grand Hyatt located in the heart of Chicago and an ever-expanding roster of top-tier destinations. Those looking to snag the hottest room in town might want to heed the advice of the more seasoned timeshare vets. After all, nothing ruins a good vacation like a snafu.
