Perception, affordability and customer service....three of the major reasons behind a spike in second tier city selections for meetings and conventions. USA Today posted an article on just that, the affordability of second tier cities.
Times are tough, we all know that. In addition, we know that it is a buyer's market in the hotel industry. How can your company or association go from a first tier to a second tier city and maintain attendance? It's all in perception. One of my previous blogs, below, was on the incredible venues and cost of Indianapolis. Many larger corporate clients are looking at the Midwest and other areas of the country for deals...
Your clients expect the best! The economic conditions allow that. Branch out. Consider destinations based on what they have to offer, you may be pleasantly surprised. Now is a time for relationship buidling, as this market will not last forever. The concessions and rates will not always be as great as they are now for planners! What matters most is the relationship with that destination, hotel brand or sales person.
Can you afford to have meetings? Yes! Not only are second tier cities rolling out the red carpet, but as a HelmsBriscoe client you can further your budget. Let me show you how. As a HelmsBriscoe associate I have saved my clients anywhere from $6,000 to over $20,000. Let me save you some money too.
Showing posts with label affordable meetings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label affordable meetings. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Meetings Industry Hit Hard
The USA Today has posted an article on the status of the meeting industry. The outlook -more virtual meetings and less travel. The economy has taken a toll on budgets that is for sure, but there are ways to make your meetings work for you.
1. Conduct more regional and local meetings
2. Ask for Food and Beverage Concessions - use pitchers of water, not bottled water
3. Request 0 attrition and cancellation for your meetings booked short term -if the contract is signed and meeting consumed within a 12 month period, hotels will work with you on this.
4. Should your space be requested 2-4 years out there are a number of standard clauses you can use to protect your company - I have more than 32 pages I can share with you.
In a nutshell, I can make your meetings work for you by saving you time and money. Try out HelmsBriscoe for your site selection purposes. There is no better RESOURCE for you and your company, association or foundation.
1. Conduct more regional and local meetings
2. Ask for Food and Beverage Concessions - use pitchers of water, not bottled water
3. Request 0 attrition and cancellation for your meetings booked short term -if the contract is signed and meeting consumed within a 12 month period, hotels will work with you on this.
4. Should your space be requested 2-4 years out there are a number of standard clauses you can use to protect your company - I have more than 32 pages I can share with you.
In a nutshell, I can make your meetings work for you by saving you time and money. Try out HelmsBriscoe for your site selection purposes. There is no better RESOURCE for you and your company, association or foundation.
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