The Vacation Rental Managers Association (VRMA) today announced that the association will change its name to the International Association of Vacation Rental Professionals (IAVRP) as part of a large rebranding initiative. The change will be effective in early 2013.
“The VRMA’s decision to review its branding strategy was about more than a new name or logo; it was about our core brand essence and making sure we still resonate as the vacation rental industry continues to evolve,” explains Steve Trover, association President. “As the IAVRP, we are pledging to be a catalyst that defines and directs the future of our industry, highlighting our professional distinction from others in the vacation rental space.”
IAVRP will continue to be dedicated to initiatives that help members strengthen their businesses and elevate the industry, such as providing in-person networking and education, free monthly geo-analytics reports, group purchasing discounts, opportunities for publicity through the association’s Discover Vacation Homes public awareness campaign, the PBS reality television series Getting Away Together, the soon-to-launch Vacation Rental Switch powered by Pegasus Solutions and more.
The name IAVRP came from extensive feedback from hundreds of members worldwide. Member surveys, focus groups and interviews found that professionalism is the critical differentiator in what VRMA members offer, and it has become the cornerstone of the new brand.
“It became clear that to accurately communicate our purpose, and that of the companies we represent, we should have a name that better highlights our professionals,” adds Trover. “The VRMA name has served us well for 27 years and will always be a part of our rich history. We are excited for this change, which solidifies the strength and momentum our industry continues to gain.”
The will begin to roll out IAVRP’s identity at its Annual Conference, to be held Oct. 21-24 in Phoenix, Ariz. Vacation rental professionals are invited to start the conversation early on Twitter using #VRMAnowIAVRP.
For more information about the association and for updates on the IAVRP branding process, visit www.vrma.com.
About the Vacation Rental Managers Association (VRMA)
Founded in 1985, the VRMA is the international, professional trade association of the vacation rental property management and hospitality industries, to be known as the International Association of Vacation Rental Professionals (IAVRP) in 2013. Membership includes hundreds of vacation rental professionals and vendor suppliers across the world, representing tens of thousands of vacation rental homes, condos and villas available to travelers through its Discover Vacation Homes initiative. For more information, visit www.vrma.com.
