What's Happening?
The U.S. Travel Association has announced the winners of the 2025 ESTO Awards, recognizing excellence in destination marketing. The awards were presented at the annual ESTO conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Categories included Digital Brilliance, Innovation, Buzz-worthy, Immersive Experiences, and more. The awards celebrate creativity and effectiveness in promoting travel destinations, with honorees selected by a panel of 60 marketing experts. The event also named Diane Shober, executive director for the Wyoming Office of Tourism, as the 2025 State Tourism Director of the Year.
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Why It's Important?
The ESTO Awards highlight the critical role of destination marketing in driving tourism, which is a significant contributor to local economies. By recognizing innovative marketing strategies, the awards encourage tourism offices to continue developing creative campaigns that attract visitors. This recognition can lead to increased visibility and tourism for the winning destinations, benefiting local businesses and communities. The awards also foster a spirit of competition and innovation within the industry, pushing marketers to explore new ways to engage potential travelers.
What's Next?
The next ESTO conference is scheduled to take place in Philadelphia in 2026, providing another opportunity for destination marketers to showcase their work and learn from industry leaders. The ongoing recognition of excellence in marketing is likely to inspire further innovation and collaboration among tourism offices, potentially leading to new trends and strategies in the industry.
