​The report examines how societal concerns influence meeting planners' perceptions of destinations, highlighting factors such as accessibility, safety, service quality, and inclusivity as pivotal in destination selection. The study emphasizes the need for destination leaders to proactively address these issues to enhance their appeal for group meetings. Download the full research report. 

These findings present a roadmap for destination organizations, offering data-driven strategies to anticipate reputational risks, build resilience and enhance destination appeal. As you engage with the insights summarized in this report, we encourage you to reflect on how they apply to your destination and how they can inform your strategy moving forward. 

We encourage our members to utilize this presentation template to share the report's key findings with shareholders. Please create a copy of the presentation before customizing the slides.

The appendix of the full report includes detailed findings from meeting and event planners.

This session provides a deeper dive into the full set of research materials now available to destination organizations, including a comprehensive research report, a key findings summary, a customizable presentation template and action briefs. Attendees will gain a thorough understanding of how political climate, public safety, accessibility and social values are shaping destination selection and long-term brand positioning.

This brief provides structured strategies to address gun violence, crime and safety concerns for three key audiences: hospitality partners, elected officials and local business leaders, law enforcement and residents. By implementing proactive safety initiatives, coordinated messaging and stakeholder collaboration, destinations can reinforce security, build community trust and sustain a strong visitor economy. 

This brief provides a structured approach for destination organizations and tourism authorities to effectively address geopolitical concerns. It includes tailored messaging, stakeholder-specific strategies, proactive crisis communication and key questions to help your destination stay ahead of uncertainty.

This guide provides a structured approach for destination marketing organizations (DMOs) to effectively navigate political and social issues. It outlines tailored messaging, stakeholder-specific strategies, proactive crisis communication and key questions to help your destination remain a trusted and welcoming place for all visitors.

This brief provides destination organizations with a structured approach to navigate these concerns, ensuring that messaging remains clear, solution-focused and aligned with stakeholders. The goal is to maintain visitors’ confidence while supporting long-term strategies that improve the destination for both residents and guests

Destination organizations must be prepared to respond swiftly, ensuring visitor safety while minimizing disruptions to tourism and business continuity. This brief provides a structured approach to crisis messaging, stakeholder engagement and recovery strategies. 

Destination organizations must take a proactive, transparent and solutions-oriented approach to counter negative narratives, ensuring that visitors and stakeholders receive a balanced perspective. This brief provides a structured framework for handling negative media coverage through effective messaging, stakeholder coordination and crisis response strategies.