Timeshare Publication Founder, Paul Mattimoe, in an Exclusive Interview PART II

Q: So now we know what you already do Paul, please tell us about your new magazine for timeshare consumers?

A: Owners Perspective magazine is designed specifically for existing owners and prospective buyers and renters of timeshare, fractional, and shared ownership products. Based around the same principles of Perspective Magazine, it will be independent, global, informative, and entertaining and deliver essential guides and exclusive content to help the readers get the most out of their memberships.

Q: What motivated you to a separate publication for timeshare owners rather that just including more owner targeted articles and advertisements in your original publication?

A: When we noticed the rise in timeshare owners subscribing to Perspective Magazine we did wonder if we should add more relevant content for them too, then at the same time I was asked to speak at the Timeshare Association – Timeshare Owners Committees (TATOC) conference a few months ago, so I did a survey with the owners that read our B2B magazine and found out that they liked to read it because as “owners” they feel they are part of the industry, not just consumers; and frankly there really wasn’t anywhere else they could get good, independent information from. So at the TATOC event, I asked the attendees if they thought it would be a good idea to add content to Perspective Magazine and the majority agreed. However after much deliberation Sharon and I felt by extending the current magazine it would dilute its effectiveness so we decided that if there was a call for it, why not create a magazine just for owners – so we have.

Q: When is your launch date?

A: The exact date is not set but it will be between 1-8, July 2008, and all subscribers will be notified by email once it is available.

Q: Who will your readership be?

A: Our readership will be varied as we are covering every type of shared ownership in every region of the world, including vacation accommodation, leisure real estate, jets, boats, cars and more, but all readers will have something in common – the interest in high quality vacation and leisure products.

Q: Why do you think there is a need for this type of publication at this time?

A: Quite simply, the demand for one approached us, we didn’t seek it out, and from the minute we announced that we would produce a consumer magazine, the interest from owners, owner forums, and key industry players has been nothing short of phenomenal.

Q: Are you releasing any information on early subscription numbers yet?

A: Sure, we are a day or two away from exceeding 5,000 subscriptions so far and we have marketing deals in place with several leading companies to promote the magazine to their members, ensuring a fast start and sustainable growth. Plus if word of mouth works like it has for our other publication I think we will significantly exceed our original expectations.

Q: Can you give us a taste of what to expect in your new publication?

A: We will have a number of interactive features for the readers, which will grow over the first few months and around 35 travel writers at present who will be providing information and guides on the best places to visit, resort reviews, spas, experience holidays and much more. There will also be specific topics covered each edition, such as how to get the most out of a points system, or most popular destinations to buy a particular product, plus some amazing reader offers that we think will pleasantly surprise – but I don’t want to spoil anything by giving too much away just yet…