Westgate Resorts Expands Its Portfolio with VOS Acquisition: A New Era in Vacation Ownership

Westgate Resorts Expands with Strategic Acquisition of VOS

In a significant move designed to propel its expansion in the vacation ownership market, Westgate Resorts has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Vacation Ownership Sales (VOS), the exclusive management and sales partner for VI Resorts, located in Bellevue, Washington. This acquisition is a pivotal step for Westgate, allowing them to nearly triple their portfolio from 22 resorts to over 60, including enticing international locations in Mexico and Canada.

A Game-Changing Acquisition

This acquisition not only enhances Westgate’s portfolio but also enables them to manage VI Resorts’ points-based Vacation Club. The VI Resorts brand stands as North America’s largest owner-controlled timeshare and vacation club. Following the close, which is projected for 2025, Westgate Resorts will manage a broad spectrum of more than 40 domestic and international resorts, enriching their offerings and appeal to vacationers. The allocated resorts include not only well-loved destinations like the scenic islands of Hawaii but also the sun-kissed beaches of Mexico and various locations throughout Canada.

Jim Gissy, the CEO of Westgate Resorts, expressed his excitement regarding this transformative acquisition. He emphasized that this venture would allow the company to introduce new Owners to the VI Club through robust sales and marketing initiatives, with a commitment of over $4 million for marketing, branding, and technology enhancements aimed at boosting the VI program for existing Owners.

Leadership Transition and Future Synergies

As part of the management transition, Mike Vasey, the Owner and President of VOS, will join Westgate’s Executive Team. He remarked on the synergy between the two companies, stating, “This acquisition will lead to numerous product synergies and collaborative opportunities.” The integration of VOS with Westgate reflects a merging of strengths that will create new offerings for both companies’ Owners.

Betty Flad, who serves as the President of the VI Owners Association Board and has been an owner since 1977, highlighted the partnership's potential to maintain the VI Club’s independence while leveraging Westgate's management capabilities. Together, they foresee enhanced operations at the resorts and the unveiling of exciting new travel options for VI Owners.

Expanding Horizons in Timeshare Industry

Westgate Resorts, established in 1982 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, has cemented itself as a leading name in the vacation ownership industry. The company boasts a total of 21 themed destination resorts across the U.S., featuring a diverse array of over 13,500 luxury villas and hotel rooms in popular locales such as Orlando, Las Vegas, and New York City. Their recent launch of the World of Westgate (WOW) Loyalty Program further solidifies their commitment to providing exclusive benefits to their Owners and guests.

The acquisition of VOS aligns with Westgate’s strategic plans following a partnership with Choice Hotels announced earlier this year. This partnership aims to elevate Westgate’s stature as an independent leader in the timeshare and hospitality sectors. Through these collaborations, both Westgate and VI Owners will benefit from exchange opportunities, allowing Owners to enjoy stays across each other's locations through Interval International membership.

As part of a legacy that celebrates VI Resorts’ 50 years in 2024, this acquisition marks a significant chapter in Westgate’s journey. By leveraging its industry-leading expertise, Westgate aims to enhance the vacation experiences of its Owners while embarking on this journey with VI Resorts to optimize the potential of vacation ownership.

In conclusion, Westgate Resorts’ acquisition of VOS positions the company strategically for substantial growth within the market and reaffirms its dedication to enhancing vacation ownership experiences. Through this union, the hope is to create a richer, more fulfilling set of options for Owners and vacation-goers alike—which is sure to reshape the landscape of timeshare vacations in North America.