Harvest Hosts Company Profile

Background

Overview

Harvest Hosts is a membership-based program that offers self-contained RV travelers access to unique overnight stays at a diverse array of locations across North America. These locations include wineries, farms, breweries, museums, and other distinctive attractions. By paying an annual membership fee, RVers can enjoy unlimited stays at these host sites, enriching their travel experiences while supporting local businesses.

Mission and Vision

The company's mission is to help individuals live happier lives through road travel, while simultaneously supporting small businesses and communities. By connecting RVers with unique destinations, Harvest Hosts aims to foster memorable experiences and contribute positively to the local economy.

Industry Significance

Since its inception in 2010, Harvest Hosts has become a significant player in the RV travel industry, offering an alternative to traditional campgrounds and enhancing the appeal of RV travel by providing access to unconventional and picturesque overnight locations. The company's growth reflects the increasing popularity of RV travel and the desire for unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Expansion of Host Network: Continuously increasing the number of host locations to offer members a wide variety of destinations.

Support for Local Businesses: Encouraging members to patronize host businesses, thereby boosting local economies.

Enhancement of Member Experience: Providing a seamless and enriching travel experience through a user-friendly platform and diverse location offerings.

Areas of Specialization

Unique Overnight Stays: Offering RVers access to unconventional camping sites such as wineries, farms, breweries, and museums.

Community Engagement: Building a community of RV enthusiasts and local hosts to share experiences and support each other.

Key Technologies Utilized

Mobile Application: A redesigned app that allows members to view host information, photos, reviews, and availability, facilitating easy reservations and communication with hosts.

Interactive Maps: Tools to help members locate potential overnight spots and plan their routes effectively.

Primary Markets Targeted

RV Travelers: Individuals seeking unique and memorable overnight stays during their journeys.

Small Business Owners: Local businesses looking to attract new customers and increase revenue through hosting RVers.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Harvest Hosts has secured significant funding to support its growth and expansion:

2018: Acquired by Joel Holland, a technology entrepreneur and avid RVer.

2021: Raised $37 million in a growth investment round led by Stripes, aiming to expand its host network and enhance member experiences.

Utilization of Capital

The funds have been utilized for:

Expansion of Host Locations: Increasing the number of participating businesses to offer a broader range of destinations.

Technological Enhancements: Improving the mobile app and interactive maps to enhance user experience.

Marketing and Outreach: Promoting the platform to attract new members and hosts.

Pipeline Development

As a membership-based platform, Harvest Hosts does not have a traditional product pipeline. Instead, its development focuses on:

Onboarding New Hosts: Continuously adding new businesses to the network to provide members with fresh and diverse options.

Member Growth: Expanding the member base to increase engagement and support for host businesses.

Feature Enhancements: Regular updates to the mobile app and website to improve functionality and user experience.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Mobile Application: A user-friendly app that provides members with access to host information, availability, and reservation capabilities.

Interactive Maps: Tools that assist members in planning their routes and locating potential overnight spots.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data Analytics: Utilizing member feedback and usage data to continuously improve the platform and tailor offerings to user preferences.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Personalized Recommendations: Leveraging data to suggest host locations based on member preferences and past visits.

Leadership Team

Joel Holland – CEO

Background: A technology entrepreneur and avid RVer based in Vail, Colorado.

Contributions: Acquired Harvest Hosts in 2018 and has been instrumental in its growth and expansion.

Mary Ashley – Co-Founder

Background: Co-founder of Harvest Hosts and partner to Joel Holland.

Contributions: Played a key role in the development and expansion of the platform.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The RV travel industry has experienced significant growth, with increasing numbers of individuals seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. This trend has led to the emergence of platforms like Harvest Hosts, which connect RVers with local businesses offering overnight stays.

Competitor Analysis

LandTrust: A land-sharing marketplace that offers RVers access to private lands for camping.

RV Overnights: A platform partnering with small businesses to provide RVers with unique overnight locations.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Harvest Hosts has formed strategic partnerships with various small businesses, including wineries, breweries, farms, and museums, to expand its network and offer diverse experiences to its members.

Operational Insights

By focusing on supporting small businesses and providing unique travel experiences, Harvest Hosts differentiates itself from traditional campgrounds and other RV travel platforms. Its model fosters a symbiotic relationship between RVers and local communities, enhancing the appeal of RV travel.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Harvest Hosts is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing interest in RV travel by: