Lagging Charlotte CVB finds locals make difference
So if your convention efforts are stalled, why not try something different: local meetings?
That’s what the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority did in the face of sluggish long-term forecasts for out-of-town conventions and trade shows.
“We have a strong economy and a motivated sales staff which helps tremendously,” said Tim Newman, chief executive, adding the local events fill in some meeting holes.
Local events at the center since 2004 have increased from 152 to 252 in fiscal 2006. This year, the figure is expected to grow to 269 events.
Mr Newman told the Charlotte Business Journal that local bookings were sought only within a two-year period. Everything beyond that time frame has been targeted for national conventions and trade shows.
The local CVB received a boost when it was announced the NASCAR Hall of Fame will come to the city.
Said Mohammad Jenatian, president of the Greater Charlotte Hospitality &Tourism Alliance:
“We have nightlife, we have the hall of fame, we have the dollars to compete for conventions and we know what we are. We’re a great second-tier convention destination, not a top-tier city, and that’s fine.”
Report by David Wilkening
David
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