Destinations International Releases global study

Destinations International (DI), in partnership with MMGY NextFactor has just released the 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study, a landmark research initiative.

The study, conducted every two years and funded by the Destinations International Foundation, provides critical insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of destination management.

These insights offer actionable strategies for global destination organizations.

The announcement was made before a record attendance during DI’s 2025 Annual Convention in Chicago.

“This year’s study underscores the transformative period destination organizations are navigating, shaped by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical uncertainties, and evolving traveler preferences,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International.

“These findings serve as essential guidance helping leaders to strategically adapt and thrive.”

“The 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study reflects a pivotal moment for destination organizations—one defined by complexity, but also by opportunity,” added Cassandra McAuley, Managing Director at MMGY NextFactor.“

The study draws on a survey of hundreds of destination professionals worldwide, quantitative research and focus groups.

This year’s study identifies four core results and key findings:

Funding Vulnerability and Advocacy: “42% of destination organizations foresee funding risks within three years,” emphasizing the need for proactive advocacy and innovative funding strategies such as Tourism Destination Marketing Districts.

Expanded Organizational Roles: The research indicates that “84% of destination organizations are actively involved in destination development,” showcasing a shift towards broader community engagement, comprehensive strategic planning, and product development.

Generative AI’s Impact on Destination Marketing: The report highlights how “Generative AI is transforming destination marketing,” exemplified by Singapore Tourism Board’s “Made in Singapore” campaign, which leverages AI for personalized storytelling.

Redefinition of Success Metrics: Increasingly, organizations are adopting multidimensional performance indicators focused on resident sentiment, community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity. It is exemplified by Canada’s Tourism Wealth & Wellbeing Index.

The 2025 study also outlines eight strategic themes essential for navigating the future, including:

Securing investment through proactive advocacy.

Navigating economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

Scaling organizational capacity and community engagement.

Shaping inclusive, prosperous, and accessible destinations.

“We are proud to support research that helps destination organizations understand and prepare for the future,” said Amir Eylon, chair of the Destinations International Foundation and president & CEO of Longwoods International.

Comparatively, the 2025 report illustrates significant thematic shifts from previous years.

Notably, it reveals an increased integration into destination strategies of technological innovation and funding advocacy.

The DestinationNEXT Futures Study involved the work of a global advisory council of senior leaders, five dedicated industry panels that conducted one-on-one interviews and small group discussions to gather qualitative insights.

The global survey polled more than 530 respondents from 36 countries and territories.

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