We Believe...

HCI Believes that strong, trustworthy financial institutions are the cornerstone of a successful community. Financial institutions allow individuals to attain their dreams and it is only through strong relationships that your bank earnsthe right to manage a customer’s money.

HCI Believes that travel changes lives. It allows individuals to make deeper connections through experiences that can only occur when immersing yourself into another culture.

HCI Believes in YOU, the leaders. Whether you’re on the road or in the office, you deserve to be prepared for any challenges that may come your way at work, while you travel and, most importantly, in your everyday life.

HCI Believes that Bank Travel Clubs are the best way to build strong customer relationships and the future of a financial institution’s success.

Our History

Founded in 1980 by First Citizens National Bank in Mason City, Iowa, Heritage Clubs International (HCI) has grown to become a leading network of community banks dedicated to providing high-end travel experiences to their customers. Initiated by O. Jay Tomson and Colin B. Robinson, HCI was at the forefront of targeted marketing concepts, and it has since flourished under successive leadership.

In 1998, George Aker took the helm as President of Heritage Clubs International, Inc. Under his leadership, the headquarters was relocated to Reno, Nevada, in 2002. The pivotal moment came in June 2007 when Mr. Aker sold Heritage Clubs to Ted Nelson, the owner of Hospitality Tours and one of HCI’s Preferred Tour Operators. This transition marked a new chapter for HCI, with Ted Nelson bringing fresh vision and direction.

Today, Heritage Clubs International boasts a vibrant membership that spans the financial and travel sectors:

• Bank Membership Demographics:

  • Represent over 200 unique community banks across 33 U.S. states, predominantly in the Midwest.
  • Serve more than 400,000 high-value deposit customers, fostering strong community ties and financial stability.
    
  • Coordinate 1,000 regional and day trips each year.
    
  • Facilitate more than 700 extended trips (three days or longer), 
    
  • Over 40,000 passengers who explore diverse destinations and cultures.
    

Currently, HCI's operations are based in Smithfield, Rhode Island, where a dedicated staff manages daily activities, continuing to innovate and drive the organization forward. This team is committed to enriching the travel club experience, ensuring that each member bank can provide exceptional travel opportunities to their customers.

As we look to the future, Heritage Clubs International remains dedicated to excellence in bank travel clubs, fostering an environment where community banks can thrive through unique travel experiences and robust customer relationships.

What is a Heritage Club?

A Heritage Club is a targeted marketing solution for community banks interested in building new relationships, solidifying existing relationships, and building core deposits, the cornerstone on which banks are funded.

A Heritage Club program offers qualifying bank customers special benefits, special attention and a reason to keep their
money away from the competition.

To learn more about how your bank can grow in core deposits and customer loyalty, contact Heritage Clubs International today.

Our Heritage Clubs Staff