Heartland Owner's Club to Continue in 2022 and Beyond

[Heartland RV Marketing]

Dear Heartland Owners,

We know there has been a lot of changes in the last few weeks as well as a lot of chatter regarding the Heartland Owner’s Club and we need to set something straight. The HOC is NOT going away and Heartland is here to support the club and will continue its National Rally in 2023 and beyond. But we feel it is best to address those unsettling feelings it seems some people may have. As it was mentioned before, The Owner’s Club is here to stay and function as is and continue to be a big part of the Heartland company and community. From the beginning Jim Beletti wanted a club that involved Heartland Owners enjoying the company of other Heartland Owners. And we believe in that premise as well and it is this element that makes the club a "family “and creates the brand loyalty that we desire.

The goal to move Chapters into being self-sustaining was only to remove the requirements of reporting and the restriction of only one reimbursed event a year gives chapters and others the opportunity to have multiple events in any year, if desired. There could even be multiple Event Hosts within a Chapter holding events. Removing the reporting function should make the Event Host role more attractive to more people.

Also, for Chapter Leaders, we know that hosting rallies is no small effort and that no one can be expected to do it forever. The club is extremely grateful for everyone’s commitment and efforts in the role of Chapter Leaders, and we hope the chapter leaders will continue to host and will want to continue their rallies.

The forum and rally information hosted on the forum as not changed and we will continue to help promote the rallies through other channels to help drive more attendance. The new Member Manager system will be a tool for Event Hosts to easily send emails to the members within their Chapter to promote the events. If you are having issues with the Member Manager, please connect with Julie. As mentioned, Marketing will continue manufacturing partnerships to provide products that can be auctioned for rally funds just as Jim did. In addition, we expect to expand the offerings as well as other opportunities which is still being worked through. And we invite feedback. A survey will be sent out in the next few days to garner insights.

Thank you very much for your feedback and please feel free to reach out with any additional questions or concerns at Marketing@heartlandrvs.com.

 

[Dawnnira]

I dont think corporate understands the goodwill that local rallies provide. People want to camp with as many good people as they can or know. Heartland RV was the common thread

Safe travels

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[LMelvin]

I dont think corporate understands the goodwill that local rallies provide. People want to camp with as many good people as they can or know. Heartland RV was the common thread

Safe travels

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Hello Dawn,
We do understand the value of local rallies and events and completely encourage owners to continue this practice. We are not taking this away by any means. We are trying to encourage more rallies and more get togethers.

 

[GK2018]

I would like to quote a piece of this thread and interpret it as I think I see it:

"The goal to move Chapters into being self-sustaining was only to remove the requirements of reporting and the restriction of only one reimbursed event a year gives chapters and others the opportunity to have multiple events in any year, if desired. There could even be multiple Event Hosts within a Chapter holding events. Removing the reporting function should make the Event Host role more attractive to more people."

My interpretation: I've never been a chapter leader although as a critical thinker I can't help but read this and not identify some issues. I can't imagine that utilizing a reporting process would not be beneficial towards chapter leaders as it helps eliminate some or all of the cost associated with holding a rallie at least once per year. The Chapter leaders put forth a huge amount of effort on behalf of the Heartland brand which in turn promotes Heartland and potentially furthers the sale of their products (it is quite impressive to non Heartland owners when they see 20 plus RVs all lined up in one park).

I am also unsure how by removing the reporting process that chapters are now afforded "the opportunity to have multiple events in any year, if desired." What were, if there were any the limitations of that by utilizing a reporting process? I would venture to say there were none and that was always an option.

An individual who may be interested in becoming a chapter leader might find this quote to actually be less attractive:

"Removing the reporting function should make the Event Host role more attractive to more people."

My reasoning behind this is because I think as I read that, that it is now on the Chapter leader to come up with the funds on their own (most likely from their own bank account) to host these rallies therefore in turn effectively shutting down most rallies. Mind you that these rallies are mutually beneficial to both Heartland and the individuals attending although more-so towards Heartland seeing as how they are the ones earning a profit by the promotions via the rallies that are occurring.

As a numbers guy, I also understand that in the short term Heartland will most likely see a profit increase due to no longer supporting the funds of one rallie per year per chapter although I feel that is strictly a short term effect based on historical accounts of businesses/entities who have had or continue to have "clubs" vice the opposite. The long term effect will most likely see a decrease in the profit margin due to the loss of a cult following (for lack of a better term) as well as less "mass brand exposure" in one location which does attract people to purchase an item (multiple psychological studies have proven that latter point of "mass brand exposure").

Anyhow that's some but not all of my interpretation of what I've read. I do/did not intend to step on any toes if that occurred but thought I would convey my thoughts on the decision that was made.

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[Dawnnira]

Hello Dawn,
We do understand the value of local rallies and events and completely encourage owners to continue this practice. We are not taking this away by any means. We are trying to encourage more rallies and more get togethers.

LMelvin-
I asked this of someone recently...we plan a wedding for the last 4 years for Heartland RV HOC-NJ. Alot of us know the stress and time that goes into the year long plan. Yes, we do spend extra money out of pocket because want to make every event great and want everyone to walk away happy and glad they attended. Numerous people approach at CG and inquire because you dont usually see 20 of the same manufacturer lined up. Yes, we treasure and love camping. True be told here, we camp with friends and family outside of rallies. What is goal/reward for us as your ambassadors of your company? Do we get paid? Stock options? A stipend for $100 is not much in the world today? We love our Bighorn and we have met numerous great people thru the northeast rallies who we have continued to be friends with and truly care about. For that we say "thank you" but your insulting some of us when you tell us your improving the club experience. I personally apologize for airing this publicly but Heartland Marketing have initiated this on FB and here on the forum. I look forward to possible discussions off line if you desire it. Mr Melvin, have you ever attended a local state rally as a camper?

Wishing everyone well
Ira & Dawn

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[LMelvin]

LMelvin-
I asked this of someone recently...we plan a wedding for the last 4 years for Heartland RV HOC-NJ. Alot of us know the stress and time that goes into the year long plan. Yes, we do spend extra money out of pocket because want to make every event great and want everyone to walk away happy and glad they attended. Numerous people approach at CG and inquire because you dont usually see 20 of the same manufacturer lined up. Yes, we treasure and love camping. True be told here, we camp with friends and family outside of rallies. What is goal/reward for us as your ambassadors of your company? Do we get paid? Stock options? A stipend for $100 is not much in the world today? We love our Bighorn and we have met numerous great people thru the northeast rallies who we have continued to be friends with and truly care about. For that we say "thank you" but your insulting some of us when you tell us your improving the club experience. I personally apologize for airing this publicly but Heartland Marketing have initiated this on FB and here on the forum. I look forward to possible discussions off line if you desire it. Mr Melvin, have you ever attended a local state rally as a camper?

Wishing everyone well
Ira & Dawn

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I would be happy to discuss offline, and let me know how best to reach you. We have no intentions of insulting anyone and I apologize that it was taken in that way. And improving the club experience has nothing to do the with rallies. I have heard exceptional things about the rallies, we are looking for more ways to provide benefits to our club members in addition to the rallies.

 

[Dawnnira]

PM sent

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[mountainlovers76]

Dear Heartland Owners,

We know there has been a lot of changes in the last few weeks as well as a lot of chatter regarding the Heartland Owner’s Club and we need to set something straight. The HOC is NOT going away and Heartland is here to support the club and will continue its National Rally in 2023 and beyond. But we feel it is best to address those unsettling feelings it seems some people may have. As it was mentioned before, The Owner’s Club is here to stay and function as is and continue to be a big part of the Heartland company and community. From the beginning Jim Beletti wanted a club that involved Heartland Owners enjoying the company of other Heartland Owners. And we believe in that premise as well and it is this element that makes the club a "family “and creates the brand loyalty that we desire.

The goal to move Chapters into being self-sustaining was only to remove the requirements of reporting and the restriction of only one reimbursed event a year gives chapters and others the opportunity to have multiple events in any year, if desired. There could even be multiple Event Hosts within a Chapter holding events. Removing the reporting function should make the Event Host role more attractive to more people.

Also, for Chapter Leaders, we know that hosting rallies is no small effort and that no one can be expected to do it forever. The club is extremely grateful for everyone’s commitment and efforts in the role of Chapter Leaders, and we hope the chapter leaders will continue to host and will want to continue their rallies.

The forum and rally information hosted on the forum as not changed and we will continue to help promote the rallies through other channels to help drive more attendance. The new Member Manager system will be a tool for Event Hosts to easily send emails to the members within their Chapter to promote the events. If you are having issues with the Member Manager, please connect with Julie. As mentioned, Marketing will continue manufacturing partnerships to provide products that can be auctioned for rally funds just as Jim did. In addition, we expect to expand the offerings as well as other opportunities which is still being worked through. And we invite feedback. A survey will be sent out in the next few days to garner insights.

Thank you very much for your feedback and please feel free to reach out with any additional questions or concerns at Marketing@heartlandrvs.com.

I posted most of this earlier on the Heartland Owners Facebook page but wanted to share here as well.

There are some things I see right off that really do not help the clubs in my opinion.

First, I do like the removing the reporting aspect but the leader will still have to continue to do some type of accounting when trying to raise funds, charge an attendee fee now, figure costs for meals, work with CGs for sites and fees, divide costs among attendees for clubhouses if the CG requires that for the event use, etc., plus keep up with what you have to pass on to the next leader when you give up the position. This reporting change only helps Heartland, not the leader, plus it takes away funds from the club in two ways. The per rig reimbursement and what little stipend we received was usually used to help out with club expenses. That doesn’t even take into account all the cost and time incurred running over the state to look for and check out a suitable venue. That’s my view as a chapter leader.

Also, we already had the option to hold multiple events during the year with only one being reimbursed by Heartland. The only change I see concerning that is now you can still have multiple events but no reimbursement even for one now. That certainly does not help the club.

As far as “Marketing continuing partnerships to provide products that can be auctioned for rally funds”, we were never provided any products for auctions. Every auction item we had that came from a business, we had to contact the businesses and ask, plead or beg, so to speak, to obtain them.

So far as a chapter leader, I can not see any benefits at all to the clubs with the change. I actually see the same, if not more, work on the future “event” leaders due to no monetary support from Heartland.

Just as questions, has anyone who determined these changes were better for the clubs ever actually been a chapter leader in the past? Has anyone at Heartland run a cost analysis on the cost of supporting the state clubs versus the additional sales Heartland has received in the past as a result of members giving free PR and Advertising and encouraging SOB owners to change to Heartland? Just curious on those two aspects.

Ricky Lester
MS Chapter Leader

I do not see any benefits to the change, only a downside for the clubs. 🤔

 

[chaplady]

I can remember my first rally attended, sold us on Heartland Club and 3 trailers over 8 years. Heartland Brand loyalty is driven by the club, not so much the product, being honest there were other brands we liked better but stayed with Heartland due to club. Let's see the math, money spent in advertising magazines and such or minimal cost of a Heartland owner , I'd say bigger influence to sell your brand is in the owner.
Chapter Leadership from my observations is a year round task , I commend and praise each person whom undertook those roles. THANK You.
Have you really thought out the impact of this one sided decision? It's just not about the owners, how much money has been donated over the years to charities under the Heartland gives back banner?
Seen it too many times once corporate gets involved, it's about the money someone who probably doesn't even camp said you can save not about the people involved. I have found in my manufacturing leadership roles once you listen to the people who use or do the task you end up with a better outcome
Advertising is about influencing people picture in a magazine or speaking to actual owners 🤔 mmm
Again Thank You All Regional and Chapter Leaders for your countless hours and great rallies

 

[Dawnnira]

I posted most of this earlier on the Heartland Owners Facebook page but wanted to share here as well.

There are some things I see right off that really do not help the clubs in my opinion.

First, I do like the removing the reporting aspect but the leader will still have to continue to do some type of accounting when trying to raise funds, charge an attendee fee now, figure costs for meals, work with CGs for sites and fees, divide costs among attendees for clubhouses if the CG requires that for the event use, etc., plus keep up with what you have to pass on to the next leader when you give up the position. This reporting change only helps Heartland, not the leader, plus it takes away funds from the club in two ways. The per rig reimbursement and what little stipend we received was usually used to help out with club expenses. That doesn’t even take into account all the cost and time incurred running over the state to look for and check out a suitable venue. That’s my view as a chapter leader.

Also, we already had the option to hold multiple events during the year with only one being reimbursed by Heartland. The only change I see concerning that is now you can still have multiple events but no reimbursement even for one now. That certainly does not help the club.

As far as “Marketing continuing partnerships to provide products that can be auctioned for rally funds”, we were never provided any products for auctions. Every auction item we had that came from a business, we had to contact the businesses and ask, plead or beg, so to speak, to obtain them.

So far as a chapter leader, I can not see any benefits at all to the clubs with the change. I actually see the same, if not more, work on the future “event” leaders due to no monetary support from Heartland.

Just as questions, has anyone who determined these changes were better for the clubs ever actually been a chapter leader in the past? Has anyone at Heartland run a cost analysis on the cost of supporting the state clubs versus the additional sales Heartland has received in the past as a result of members giving free PR and Advertising and encouraging SOB owners to change to Heartland? Just curious on those two aspects.

Ricky Lester
MS Chapter Leader

I do not see any benefits to the change, only a downside for the clubs.

Good thoughts, well written

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[Hockster]

I find it very interesting that we have heard nothing from Jim.
When he was laid off in 2020, he posted on 2 April 2020 to the forum to tell us what happened and to tell us all Thanks For The Memories, and he hoped to be back.
This time we hear nothing from him.
Why?
Heartland, you have taken the Heart out of Heartland.
Forgive them, for they know not what they do.
For Boots on the ground, who is going to organize and run the National in 2023.
I do not see this being done by corporate.
I really don’t believe you folks know how much time and effort Jim put in the National Rallies or the club in general, or the good will he spread.
Jim was one of us, & we connected with him, and I believe you will not get that trust.
We have already seen how you screwed up (twice) the Heartland Logo from the original one.
There is an old maintenance axiom, If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
In 2018, I too was looking for a new 5er, and found an SOB that we liked better, but brought the Bighorn instead, because of the club.
Someone earlier made a statement about not stepping on toes, well sometimes toes need to be stepped on.
Thanks for the Memories Jim, proud to say I knew you.
Heartland, we’re waiting for the next act to begin.

Hockster

 

[southernlady5464]

I find it very interesting that we have heard nothing from Jim.
When he was laid off in 2020, he posted on 2 April 2020 to the forum to tell us what happened and to tell us all Thanks For The Memories, and he hoped to be back.
This time we hear nothing from him.
Why?

Because he retired and is now working for a competitor.

 

[GK2018]

I find it very interesting that we have heard nothing from Jim.
When he was laid off in 2020, he posted on 2 April 2020 to the forum to tell us what happened and to tell us all Thanks For The Memories, and he hoped to be back.
This time we hear nothing from him.
Why?
Heartland, you have taken the Heart out of Heartland.
Forgive them, for they know not what they do.
For Boots on the ground, who is going to organize and run the National in 2023.
I do not see this being done by corporate.
I really don’t believe you folks know how much time and effort Jim put in the National Rallies or the club in general, or the good will he spread.
Jim was one of us, & we connected with him, and I believe you will not get that trust.
We have already seen how you screwed up (twice) the Heartland Logo from the original one.
There is an old maintenance axiom, If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
In 2018, I too was looking for a new 5er, and found an SOB that we liked better, but brought the Bighorn instead, because of the club.
Someone earlier made a statement about not stepping on toes, well sometimes toes need to be stepped on.
Thanks for the Memories Jim, proud to say I knew you.
Heartland, we’re waiting for the next act to begin.

Hockster

I agree, Jim was and is definitely a great guy! I'm somewhat out of the loop on what all is and has transpired although I've definitely begun to piece it all together and I'm in disagreement with how Heartland has conducted themselves. We also upgraded our RV from the bumper pull to the 5th wheel in part due to the club so it's disheartening to see the current trajectory. I can see where Heartland may have came from with their decision but I feel it wasn't well thought out and isn't the most intelligent move based upon several various aspects. I guess time will tell on how things proceed from here.

I also concur with the logo changes, I definitely don't care for this new one that was created.

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[GK2018]

As a side note due to the awesome rallies, we have promoted Heartland RV's and have brought others to purchase Heartland RV's. Those purchases didn't benefit us but did benefit Heartland. I feel that most of that will become the past on a broader scale and will reflect in Heartlands financial reports over the course of time. Once again only time will truly tell if that's fact though.

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[Shortest Straw]

Once again, as proven time and time again, once the suits get a hold of something (logo change), it gets ruined. It is obvious that the folks making this decision have zero idea of what they are doing. Make it better for the club? Making things more difficult on the chapter leaders doesn't make it better for anyone. Not helping with the costs of a rally, major advertising events, makes it harder on everyone. What a slap in the face to Jim and Julie...

 

[Shortest Straw]

Hello Dawn,
We do understand the value of local rallies and events and completely encourage owners to continue this practice. We are not taking this away by any means. We are trying to encourage more rallies and more get togethers.

If you understood the value, you wouldn't be making any changes.

 

[JohnD]

I've been wondering who is going to take over in Jim's shoes...

 

[RoadJunkie]

Change is scary, for some. That's why some people still watch "Gunsmoke" as opposed to adapting to different ideas or concepts. Jim is gone from Heartland, don't expect a "new" Jim. Jim was not the club, the members are the club. In fact, I don't remember Jim attending any of the many rallies in the southwest that I had attended. Let's all get behind this new phase of the Heartland club, stop the blame game, and help generate new ideas and a new direction for our future enjoyment.

 

[JohnD]

Change is scary, for some. That's why some people still watch "Gunsmoke" as opposed to adapting to different ideas or concepts. Jim is gone from Heartland, don't expect a "new" Jim. Jim was not the club, the members are the club. In fact, I don't remember Jim attending any of the many rallies in the southwest that I had attended. Let's all get behind this new phase of the Heartland club, stop the blame game, and help generate new ideas and a new direction for our future enjoyment.

I've been at several rallies that you attended...and Jim was at a couple of them that I can think of...

 

[RoadJunkie]

I've been at several rallies that you attended...and Jim was at a couple of them that I can think of...

Which several rallies are you referring to, John? I know he was, of course, at the National rally in Las Vegas. Check with the chapter leaders of Nevada and Utah. I'm not working to impugn anyone associated with the club. My point is to identify that the club was not dependent on any single individual, but rather the comrade and participation of the members. Let's not be obstructionists to the future success of the club.