Pathfinder Ventures (TSX-V:RV) Inc has shrugged off inflation and rising fuel costs to announce a 36.3% increase in bookings at its campsites as the peak season approaches.
From June 20 to September 4, 2022, the operator of family-friendly recreational vehicle (RV) parks and campsites has secured reservations of 16,149 total site nights across all three of its resorts, an increase of 4,304 total site nights booked over the same time period in 2021.
The company said it has seen an increase in non-local customers from northern British Columbia (BC) and Alberta choosing to stay close to home, largely due to the rising fuel costs, but noted that these reservations have quickly been rebooked by guests from the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island.
"We'd love to host guests from out of town and provide them with the unique Pathfinder Camp Resorts experience, but we understand the rising costs associated with driving," Pathfinder COO Stan Duckworth said in a statement.
READ: Pathfinder Ventures posts 1Q revenue boost as occupied site nights at its RV resorts in British Columbia increase
"We are excited to host more local residents who have also made the decision to stay close to home, so they can enjoy their RV getaway at a premier spot, but without the high fuel bill," Duckworth added.
The company recently added new accommodation options at its Fort Langley and Parksville locations. The Fort Camping resort in Fort Langley now has an onsite RV rental option where guests can enjoy the RV experience without the cost of gas, insurance or towing an RV themselves.
Meanwhile, Pathfinder Parksville also has a newly renovated vacation suite for guests without an RV.
"We've launched a pilot program with on-site RV rentals and hard roof vacation rentals. We're testing the market and initial demand is strong and feedback is very positive,” said Joe Bleackley, CEO, founder and director of Pathfinder.
“We're also exploring opportunities and partnerships with RV rental companies and international tour operators to support the resurgence of European tourists wishing to explore British Columbia and Canada in an RV."
Pathfinder Ventures is developing a network of premier branded, upscale and family-friendly RV parks and campgrounds under the Pathfinder Camp Resorts name. The company currently has three camp resorts located in BC and is focused on growing its network through both acquisitions and new construction.
Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com