As easy as it is to speculate a major player taking on the DC industry, what would that do to the industry. HCC is probably fine since it would not be in the same league but just about all the others would.
I believe that if ANY major hotel chain decides to enter the DC industry, this would be a major positive move for the entire industry. It would add instant credibility to Destination Clubs.
There is a HUGE amount of room for growth in the DC industry. There are still less than 5,000 DC members in the world!
Compare that to DVC, Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, WM, FF, etc. and then compare the prices per night per room and it make sense that the DC prepresents a new paradigm in upscale travel.
Although, someone may think some of my posts (and other HCC members also) may lack objectivity, the simple fact is that we are happy DC members. I have yet to read one single post from any DC member (HCC or otherwise) that is unhappy with their decision to join a DC. Perhaps some of the T&H members are disapointed, but those problems have been resolved.
Now compare the complaints about the timeshare industry with the destination club industry, and you will quickly conclude that these properties are as different as night and day.
Also, do a search of my first few threads on the economics of joining a DC and you will find that joining a DC can be CHEAPER than buying an upscale timeshare.
Here is a brief example:
HCC Associate membership = $333 per night
HCC Affiliate membership = $296 per night
Ski week (Marriott SummitWatch / Mountainside or Westgate Park City) = $350 per night
Disney Vacation Club = $380 per night