Clients: Denny, Kathy, Gary and Tami Quigley

Address: Kozy Rest Kampground
              449 Campground Road
              Harrisville, PA  16038       

County: Butler County

Website: www.kozyrestkampground.com

Industry: Tourism

Year Founded: 2000

SBDC Assistance: Consulting services in areas of business expansion, financing,  (EMAP) energy efficiency, environmental assistance

“Would you like to see our haunted house?” was hardly the first thing the SBDC consultants expected when they were invited by Denny and Gary Quigley for a tour of the Kozy Rest Kampground.  But, on a beautiful fall day in October 2008, they found Gary had converted the picnic pavilion to a scary maze of ghoulish exhibits, and were disappointed that they weren’t touring at night.   But, if you stay at Kozy Rest, expect entertainment. In addition to the pool, miniature golf, sports courts, the Quigleys plan a full slate of activities and themed weekends in the camp and recreation hall. “That’s why we have over 100 seasonal guests, who leave their campers on site year-round.”

The Quigley family purchased the 34-acre campground in 2000 and set about improving the facilities and focusing on making it a destination park rather than just lodging.  With a combination of RV and tent sites, cabins and yurts, their efforts were well rewarded when they were tied for fifth in the rankings in Pennsylvania by Trailer Life in 2007.  Highly rated customer satisfaction was also evident by being recognized at the National Campground Owners Convention in Nashville in November 2008, as being one of only twenty one campgrounds from across the nation out of 4000 to have an overall rating of “A” and a 208% increase in total income since the time they took over.  Having fun at Kozy Rest is just part of the deal.

With a focus on customer satisfaction, Denny and Gary knew they needed to continue facility improvements.  So, in 2008 they developed plans to construct a new laundry and restroom facility, add two new camping cabins, upgrade 22 campsites with sewer hookups, and build a new maintenance building.

Assistance

Denny Quigley had worked with the Duquesne University SBDC in 1998 when looking for a campground business to purchase.  Now, the family wanted to explore federal or state financing programs, incorporate energy savings into their plans, and find assistance with a business plan for an expansion loan application.  At their first meeting, one of the SBDC consultants reviewed and summarized state and federal funding programs, and later contacted agency representatives regarding the Quigley’s’ eligibility.  She assisted them with a review of their business plan and financial projections.

The environmental consultant prepared a list of suggested energy saving opportunities, such as lighting, programmable thermostats, occupancy sensors, and HVAC system(s), with an analysis of costs and payback period.  She also made recommendations on the water system and water conservation options.  Overall, the energy saving suggestions provided could save the Kozy Rest over $700 in annual utility costs.  Denny is anxiously awaiting an announcement for the opening of energy efficiency grants offered by the Department of Environmental Protection to help off-set installation and renovation costs.

Results

In spring of 2009, the Quigleys had offers from two lenders, and successfully obtained a loan for the improvements.  Quilgey stated, “After preparing a very detailed and professional business plan showing who we are, our background, history of what we have accomplished, and our future plans and projections, the banks were impressed and excited to work with us.  It’s a good feeling to hear multiple banks say “we want your business, what do you need?”

If you would like more information on how the Duquesne University SBDC can assist you with your business, please contact us by: form, phone 412.396.6233, or email duqsbdc@duq.edu