ORLANDO- According to a panel of marketing superstars at the Timeshare Investment Conference being held here, the movement of major brands into the timeshare industry does not mean that independent developers are in danger of extinction.
“A brand represents a promise, a standard being set,” explained Donald Clayton, president of Festiva Resorts. “So you dont have to have a brand to make that promise. Brands can only help you if you know what youre doing, but its not necessary to be successful.”
“The market for timeshare is so huge,” agreed James Gissy, executive vp of sales & marketing for Central Florida Investments & Westgate Resorts. “Its just like automobiles. Theres a vast selection for whatever you want to buy. Weve never sold as well as we are now. The market is booming,” he said. (10/26/00) –Jay Nussbaum