State of the tourism industry report delivered next week

Historic City News readers interested in the Visitor and Convention Bureau “State of the Industry Report”, an annual event that presents the current state and future projections for tourism affecting St. Johns County, are invited to join more than 300 local travel and hospitality professionals for this year’s event.

The report will be delivered during the free event held on Wednesday, May 27th at the Renaissance World Golf Village Resort from 8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

“Tourism is the biggest economic driver in St. Johns County. Everyone in our county is affected in some way by our hospitality and tourism industry,” said Richard Goldman, President and CEO of the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau. “That’s why we encourage interested parties to attend and learn more about how the VCB markets the destination, what’s working for Florida’s Historic Coast and trends in the overall tourism industry.”

Well-known tourism expert Dr. Peter Yesawich will share new research on leisure travel trends and the application of this research to best identify and reach potential visitors.

Goldman and his VCB staff will showcase the destination’s recent marketing campaigns and present more details on the success of the destination’s brand and the impact of tourism in St. Johns County.

The event will also feature guest speaker Bill Hughes, General Manager of TPC Sawgrass. Hughes will share his knowledge, insights and experience motivating and inspiring tourism and hospitality professionals at all levels.

This annual event is produced by the VCB entirely through private funds and donations.

Admission to the event is free, but RSVPs are requested to facilitate food, beverage and seating. Individual or group RSVPs, as well as reservations of tables for six, can be made through Erin Masters at (904) 209-4422.