Kampgrounds of America (KOA) announced a year of significant expansion. The company secured 12 independent park conversions and eight new construction contracts in 2023, contributing to its elevated number of branded locations to 511 across North America.
The 20 agreements are attributed to the KOA franchise development team’s dedicated efforts, which mark a significant rise from 14 agreements in the previous year and underscores the organization’s resilience and adaptive strength in the evolving travel, camping and outdoor hospitality industry, the organization said.
“KOA is the go-to partner for conversion and new build campgrounds,” said Chris Fairlee, chief acquisition officer. “The equation is easy for owners to see how our brand and services set them up for success and create operational efficiencies.”
The organization also maintains a robust pipeline for future expansions, including six parks in the process of converting to a KOA-branded campground and 26 new construction franchise campgrounds, plus three owned properties earmarked for development. With a healthy franchise renewal rate of 95%, KOA said it could easily reach 550 campgrounds in the next few years.
“The combination of high renewal rates amongst our existing franchisees, along with the healthy influx of new franchisees and new campgrounds, is a clear indication that KOA is meeting the needs of our customers – both campers and franchisees alike,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America. “Our comprehensive range of services, from marketing and KOA.com to campground design and our proprietary Property Management System, K2, we are undoubtedly valuable at every stage of our franchisees’ business lifecycle. I am incredibly proud of what our teams have accomplished and am excited for what 2024 and beyond holds for KOA.”
The organization said it remains dedicated to enhancing outdoor experiences for campers and supporting campground owners and operators with its services.
For more information about franchising a KOA, visit ownakoa.com