RCI Reflects on 50 Years of Timeshare Exchange

In 2024, RCI reached a major milestone – marking 50 years since it pioneered the sharing economy by transforming the timeshare industry with the introduction of the first vacation exchange platform. Today, 3.5 million members around the world use the RCI network to unlock access at more than 4,100+ affiliated resorts in approximately 110 countries, plus great deals on hotels, activities, flights, and more.

Take a look at some of the key achievements which have helped RCI solidify its status as the industry’s leading exchange company, the ultimate travel companion for timeshare owners, and an invaluable resource for its valued affiliates.

• 1974 - Timeshare skyrocketed in the ‘70s thanks to the dawn of timeshare exchange, which was first introduced in 1974 by RCI (originally known as Resort Condominiums International, Inc.), led by Christel and Jon Dehaan. From its first office in Indianapolis, Indiana, RCI facilitated exchanges among 453 members during its inaugural year.
• 1986 - As branded hospitality companies enter the industry, consumer interest in timeshare continues to pick up speed. In 1986, RCI confirms more than 300,000 exchanges among its engaged members.
• 2000 - The flexible points-based timeshare model is adopted throughout the ‘90s and beyond. In response, RCI launches RCI Points. As the largest global points-based exchange system to date, RCI Points adds even more flexibility to the product of timeshare.
• 2010 - RCI introduces ‘Trading Power’ for RCI Weeks members, helping members exchange for a vacation comparable to the one they already own. The RCI Platinum-membership tier is also introduced, providing even more travel benefits and perks to meet members’ vacation needs.
• 2020 - RCI receives a new look and feel, re-launching as The New Shape of Travel™, strengthened by the addition of hotels, car rentals, and activities to its portfolio. RCI members can now search and book hotels alongside resorts, using their trading power or points to reduce the price, with additional discounts for RCI Platinum members.
• 2024 - RCI celebrates its golden 50th anniversary. Since its inception, the exchange leader has facilitated travel for approximately 250 million people and hosted around 62 million exchanges on its platform.

Over the past five decades, RCI has remained steadfast in supporting affiliate properties by continually investing in new tools and products to help resorts reach their goals. From inventory and HOA management to contact center solutions and sustainability strategies, RCI connects affiliates with meaningful resources to help them move the needle. As RCI embarks on its sixth decade, the commitment to continually evolving to help affiliates meet the ever-changing needs of the modern traveler remains intact.

ARDA members attending the ARDA Spring Conference this year will notice the special ‘RCI 50’ branding, which was rolled out in honor of the anniversary, as well as the ‘More’ campaign, which emphasizes how RCI helps members get more from their timeshare. Whether that’s achieved by encouraging owners to own the lifestyle they chose to be a part of, or by adding to their existing vacations with car rentals, flights, or activities, RCI helps members make more memories and reach their travel milestones. RCI’s partnership with affiliates truly allows owners to make the most of their investment – the cherry on top of an already delicious sundae.

To support this as the year continues, RCI will be introducing a variety of member deals and messaging designed to celebrate the past – and inspire excitement for the future. The RCI team has also curated a special online hub: www.RCI.com/50. Here, visitors to the hub will find an interactive timeline, commemorative history video, member and affiliate testimonials, travel deals, and even a special digital issue of RCI Magazine – all in one convenient place.

A Note from Paul Mulcahy, Managing Director, RCI North America & Global Marketing and Sales

I couldn’t be prouder to represent this company (and the incredible team behind it) in my new role overseeing the RCI North America business, as well as Marketing and Sales for RCI globally. Freshly situated within the Travel and Membership business under our parent company, Travel + Leisure Co., RCI is well positioned to continue leading the industry and facilitating more travel dreams.
Whether you’ve been with us from 1974 or 2024, thank you for being a part of the RCI family. Here’s to 50 years of more. More dots on the map. More milestones. More memories.