What's Happening?
Visitor centers and convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs) in Idaho are playing a pivotal role in transforming corporate events into memorable experiences. These organizations, such as Visit Boise, are offering free consulting services that go beyond traditional venue selection. They provide access to unique local venues and immersive experiences, as demonstrated by Freeman, a major trade show company, which collaborated with Visit Boise to create a multi-venue event that became their highest-rated conference. This trend highlights the evolving role of CVBs from simple brochure distributors to sophisticated event planners, helping organizers save costs through vendor partnerships and request for proposal (RFP) support.
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Why It's Important?
The involvement of visitor centers and CVBs in meeting planning is significant for the U.S. events industry, particularly in enhancing the appeal of destinations like Idaho. By offering unique, immersive experiences, these organizations help attract more conventions and meetings, boosting local economies. They provide financial benefits by leveraging local market knowledge to maximize budgets, negotiate group rates, and secure added value. This approach not only benefits event organizers but also supports local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and activity providers, fostering economic growth and community engagement.
What's Next?
As more event planners become aware of the benefits offered by CVBs, it is likely that the demand for such services will increase. This could lead to more innovative and diverse event offerings, further enhancing Idaho's reputation as a premier destination for meetings and conventions. Planners are encouraged to engage with CVBs early in the planning process to fully leverage their expertise and resources, potentially leading to more complex and rewarding event experiences.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift towards experiential meetings facilitated by CVBs also reflects broader trends in the events industry, where attendees seek more than just traditional conference settings. This trend aligns with a growing emphasis on creating authentic, memorable experiences that foster deeper connections and engagement. Additionally, the collaboration between CVBs and event planners underscores the importance of local expertise in crafting events that resonate with participants and leave a lasting impact.
