The Organisation for Timeshare in Europe (OTE) announced that it is changing its name to the Resort Development Organisation (RDO).

The new name reflects the changes in the vacation ownership industry, which has made leaps and bounds since the first timeshare sale in the 1960s. Today, the industry offers clients numerous ownership options, including floating weeks, points systems, and fractional ownerships.

“I believe that RDO truly reflects the extensive range of holiday options now available in the vacation ownership market,” said Richard McIntosh, RDO chairman. “By widening the scope of the organisation’s membership, we are representing the industry as a whole rather than just focusing on timeshare.”

McIntosh explained: “Under RDO, the free complaints resolution service and dispute resolution scheme will be opened up to more people. The level of complaints for timeshare is at a very low level and is decreasing year on year, which compares starkly with other holiday options, such as holiday clubs (or discount travel clubs), which are not governed by specific legislation and do not benefit from trade body representation.” 

RDO will continue the practices of OTE. The organisation will promote better business practices and fair treading in all areas of the industry. RDO will work closely with the government, consumer groups, and relevant NGOs to ensure that legislations are fair and appropriate.