Current News

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Current News

May 14, 2024
Four Seasons Hotel Toronto in Yorkville Elevates Luxury Experience with Newly Redesigned Rooms and Suites

Toronto, CanadaFour Seasons Hotel Toronto announces the completion of an extensive, multimillion dollar guest room renovation, enhancing the luxury experience for its guests from around the world. With a focus on elevating comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the redesign encompasses all 259 guest rooms including 42 suites within the Hotel.

“We have an unwavering commitment to providing guests and residents with the best luxury experience in Toronto, and this fresh, holistic update has surpassed all expectations,” states Shahid Khan, owner of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. “We ensured that every detail was considered, and refined many iterations of the model room until it was absolutely perfect. It is important to reinvest in Four Seasons Hotel Toronto through the elevation of our guest room product and experience, and this organic and warm update underscores our promise to offering the preeminent Hotel in the market.”

The importance of maintaining the Hotel's distinct architectural character was paramount, and the refresh introduced many enhancements while respecting the existing design framework. Every aspect of the rooms and suites has been meticulously reconsidered, from carpets to furnishings, lighting to artwork. All furniture has been designed and manufactured in Canada, utilizing local artisans and fabrics throughout the rooms.

Patrick Pollak, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, expresses his enthusiasm for the new rooms and suites, stating, "We are thrilled to unveil our newly renovated rooms and suites, which reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence and providing guests a luxurious experience with genuine heart. This revitalization represents a significant investment in enhancing the guest stay, ensuring that every moment at Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is nothing short of exceptional."

The design inspiration behind the remodel draws from Toronto's unique juxtaposition of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Colours and textures celebrate the distinctly Canadian surrounding landscape, while furniture designs and surface patterns bring forth the energizing asymmetry found in the natural world. Local artists play a pivotal role in the aesthetic narrative of the renovated rooms and suites. Works by Canadian artists such as Emma Enright, Dahae Song, Deborah Moss, and Andrea Soos adorn the walls, adding a distinctive touch of regional flair to the guest experience.

DesignAgency led the design and creative vision, infusing the rooms with a sense of timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication. The aim was to create an environment that seamlessly blends the urban vibrancy of Toronto with the tranquil beauty of its natural surroundings. Every design element was carefully considered to evoke a sense of harmony and sophistication, providing guests with an elevated experience that resonates with the spirit of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto.

Adding to the allure of the newly redesigned spaces are several thoughtful additions. Guests now enjoy programmable temperature control kettles by Corvo, Nespresso machines, press steamers in every room, and exclusive wine labels sourced from the nearby Niagara wine region. Technological upgrades include a new dimmable, LED and energy efficient Lutron lighting system, automated drapes, and increased power outlets throughout the rooms. Wireless chargers are available at each nightstand, ensuring convenience and connectivity for modern travellers.

The bespoke private bar, aptly named "MyBar," has been thoughtfully curated to include a selection of local products, showcasing the best of Canadian craftsmanship and culinary delights. Guests may indulge in artisanal SOMA chocolate crafted in Toronto, Covered Bridge potato chips from New Brunswick, and organic, Nos Cananes pure maple syrup from Quebec, offering a taste of Canada to take home and enjoy. Additionally, guests can choose from a variety of wellness beverages, including Sap Sucker maple sap sparkling water, hibiscus and rose hips Rise Kombucha brewed in Montreal, and Nom Nom nitro cold brew coffee from a local Toronto coffee roastery. In the suites, guests may enjoy a seasonally updated Manhattan cocktail kit featuring house made ingredients including infused Canadian rye, vermouth and bitters curated by Four Seasons mixologists with the flavours of the season.  

In addition to the guest rooms and suites, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto has previously renovated public spaces ensuring a cohesive and seamlessly updated guest experience throughout the property. With the completion of this renovation project, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled luxury and hospitality, inviting guests to indulge in a refined retreat amid the vibrant heart of Toronto.

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto is offering up to CAD 400 per day in Hotel credit with the Experience More package. For more information or to make a reservation, click here.

Source: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

May 14, 2024
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism Proudly Announces New Hotel and Restaurant Openings

Toronto, ON—The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is delighted to announce exciting new Grand Cayman hotel and restaurant openings including luxury eco-adventure resort, VIDA Cayman Islands, the all-new Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, as well as newly renovated guest rooms at the beloved Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort. The new properties and renovations are complemented by several recent restaurant openings and a recent increase in non-stop airlift from Toronto to Grand Cayman. With so many new experiences in the Caribbean hotpot, there’s no better time to visit than 2024. Newly opened and renovated hotels include:

VIDA Cayman

Opened on April 1, 2024 , VIDA Cayman is a luxury, boutique hotel where eco-adventure and wellness meet elegant accommodations, warm hospitality and world-class facilities. Located off-the-beaten-path on Grand Cayman’s western tip, the 12-suite property is immersed in the natural beauty of Barkers National Park where guests have the chance to explore secluded wilderness, adrenaline-fueled adventure and the opportunity to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. VIDA sets itself apart with its genuine commitment to sustainability as evidenced by its environmental practices, socially responsible programming and economic support of the local community. 

VIDA's sanctuary-like suites offer large, sea view, decks and patios as well as the possibility to unwind with in-room spa treatments. The property is a playground equipped with best in class amenities including a pool set amongst tranquil local foliage, stillness and movement decks, a modern gym, private chef services, push bikes and e-bikes, outdoor hot tub and outdoor fire pit. Rounding out VIDA's amenities is its onsite eatery, Nourishshowcasing the local flavours and ingredients that capture the essence of the Cayman Islands. Nourish offers daily breakfast (included in room rates) and  lunch. Come dinner, guests can book special food experiences such as farm-to-fork dinners or holistic cooking classes led by locally loved Chef Maureen Cubbon. With a full range of weekly scheduled movement sessions ranging from meditations to yoga, to kite surfing to cycling trails, nature guided runs and sunrise kitesurfing sessions there is truly something for everyone to at VIDA. Rooms at VIDA start from $550.00USD per night.

Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman

Now accepting reservations for June 1, 2024, Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman is the first Hotel Indigo in the Caribbean and the newest property along the celebrated Seven Mile Beach strip. A unique oasis enhanced by local elements, bohemian design, and attentive service, the property will feature 282 guest rooms and suites, a multi-concept epicurean hub for dining, outdoor deck with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean, over 7,500 square feet of meeting and event space, as well as the island's first rooftop lounge, which will feature innovative cocktails and Latin-inspired fare.

The hotel’s design incorporates Grand Cayman's unique culture, embodying the island's lush topography through warm and cool color palettes. Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman’s art and design pay tribute to the island's natural landscapes, historical figures, and cultural traditions, featuring hand-made pottery vessels and curated artwork by local Caymanian and Caribbean artists. This vision has already garnered accolades, winning the Cayman Islands Hotel Architecture Award and the Cayman Islands New Hotel Construction & Design Award for 2023-2024. 

The hotel’s culinary hub offers five new dining concepts, each catering to different occasions. Cafe Aula is the ideal breakfast spot with a selection of fresh coffee, baked goods, sandwiches, and snacks while those seeking cold poolside refreshments, fresh, locally sourced seafood and craft cocktails and dinner plates will enjoy Pom Pom rooftop bar. Catalina's seasonal menu showcases the island’s freshest ingredients throughout its clean, vibrant cuisine inspired by the tastes of California while Milkberry is the place for fresh sushi rolls and Asian-inspired small plates. Rasa caps the dining collection with its one-of-a-kind exhibition kitchen exploring the richest international culinary traditions throughout its global fare enjoyed through tasting menus. Rooms start from $474.00USD per night.

Grand Cayman Marriott Resort

Due for completion during summer 2024, Grand Cayman Marriott Resort has embarked on an exciting journey of re-imagining its beloved facilities which have captured the hearts of so many over the years. The hotel's 301 guestrooms are nearing completion of top-to-bottom renovations that will seamlessly bring accommodations into harmony with the endless summer vibes of the property's beloved front of house. Inspired by Grand Cayman’s natural environment of clear waters and white sandy beaches, guestrooms rooms will be infused with sea blue, sand, and wood tones capped with plush Kings and double Queen beds. The breathtaking landscape inspired palette will be rounded out with bespoke, high-quality furnishings and upgraded technology and lighting. In addition to standard guestrooms, the property includes 15 Junior Suites upgraded to include a residential feel with defined sitting areas. The resort has also added four all-new Family Suites, furnished with bunk beds and a King bed for families looking for a fun and unique stay. Two new, one-bedroom Ocean Suites round out the accommodation offerings. The renovations will ensure a holistic summer house setting throughout the entire property and that Grand Cayman Marriott Resort continues to serve as a place where guests can relax, unwind, and reconnect. Room rates start from $304.00USD per night.

“The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is thrilled to see so many new hotel and dining options come to fruition which feels like the true sign of fully emerging from the effects of the pandemic,” said Raymond Mathias, Business Development Manager for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. “We saw Canadians return to the destination in droves in 2023 and we’re excited to offer even more product that will serve their keen interest in sun, sand and sea fueled by beauty, adventure, sustainability and luxury.”

In addition to the healthy fare at VIDA's Nourish and the new dining concepts at Hotel Indigo, Grand Cayman's local and seasonal restaurant scene has grown to include newcomers Fresca and Island Naturals The Grove. Travellers visiting Cayman and looking for lighter fare will enjoy the all-new Fresca which prides itself on simplicity, fresh ingredients, great vibes and good food spanning smoothies, bowls and plates traversing Caymanian and global culinary traditions. The Island Naturals brand is celebrating its 10th anniversary with the recent opening of its new location at The Grove, a trendy new residential and retail complex along Seven Mile Beach. Island Naturals is locally loved for its colourful menu filled with nourishing smoothies, bowls, baked goods and plates that defy expectations of what “health” looks like. While the original location focuses on vegetarian and vegan fare, Island Naturals The Grove has introduced some healthful fish, meat and even cocktails and mocktails to its menu. 

For more information please visit https://www.visitcaymanislands.com

About the Cayman Islands
A quick, 4-hour, nonstop from Toronto, and located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquility of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travellers, divers, honeymooners and families. Known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, world renowned for its idyllic beaches and recognised as a sophisticated, diverse and memorable tourist destination, the Cayman Islands offers spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Cayman Islands, please go to visitcaymanIslands.com or call your local travel agent.

Media inquiries:
Mindy Cummings or Hannah Rastrick
mindy@aerialpr.com / hannah@aerialpr.com

May 14, 2024
IRF and SITE, along with research partner Oxford Economics, launch 2024 edition of incentive travel survey

Long acknowledged as the industry’s most comprehensive and globally extensive survey, ITI is back in the field to capture the state of the incentive travel nation for 2024 and beyond

Frankfurt—Incentive Research Foundation IRF) and Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), along with research partner Oxford Economics, are proud to announce the 2024 edition of their joint survey of the global incentive travel market.

Now in its seventh year, the Incentive Travel Index (ITI) is the business event industry’s most authoritative study of the global incentive travel market and its impact on corporations, agencies and the supply chain in destinations.

"The Incentive Travel Index is our industry’s flagship global survey, providing insights from both source markets and destinations. The ITI is an important roadmap for our rapidly evolving industry, disclosing the threats and opportunities that lie ahead and providing indispensable direction as we navigate our way to the future," said Stephanie Harris, President, Incentive Research Foundation. "We are thrilled to once again collaborate with SITE on the ITI, and look forward to presenting this year’s results to the industry at IMEX America in October 2024." 

Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, CEO of SITE, further commented, "This year, with vital input at the design stage from our global community, we’re going deeper with some lines of enquiry, providing more detail and clarity in the survey questions. While the survey will continue to pose the perennial questions around who, how, where and why, it will also focus on today’s emerging themes and the impact for incentive travel now, and in the future, of AI and technology; diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, as well as sustainability; geo-political instability; workplace changes; and inflation.”

The ITI survey is live between May 14 and July 25 and is available in English and Spanish.

Further details may be found on the ITI website and on the IRF and SITE homepages.

For further information, please contact:

Stephanie Harris
President, IRF
Stephanie.harris@theirf.org

Aran Ryan
Director, Oxford Economics
Aran.ryan@oxfordeconomics.com

Pádraic Gilligan 
Head of Marketing, SITE 
pgilligan@@siteglobal.com 

About Incentive Travel
Incentive travel, the “I” in MICE, is the fastest growing sector of the business events industry, with the highest per capita spend and the widest supply chain.

Accounting for about 7% of all business events activities, the Events Industry Council’s Global Economic Impact study (2023) estimates the incentive travel industry to be worth around $112 billion globally.

About IRF
The Incentive Research Foundation (TheIRF.org) funds and promotes research to advance the science and enhance the awareness and appropriate application of motivation and incentives in business and industry globally. The goal is to increase the understanding, effective use, and resultant benefits of incentives to businesses that currently use incentives and others interested in improved performance.

About SITE
Founded in 1973, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) is a professional association of 2,750 members located in 90 countries, working in corporations, agencies, airlines, cruise companies and across the entire destination supply chain.

May 14, 2024
Metro Toronto Convention Centre Welcomes Susan Richardson as Vice President of Sales

Toronto, ON—The Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Richardson to the role of Vice President of Sales, effective June 10th. Richardson joins the MTCC after serving as Vice President of Meeting and Conventions at Visit Detroit.

During her tenure at Visit Detroit, Susan led innovative sales initiatives that successfully helped reintroduce Detroit to the meetings and conventions market. Prior to this, she was the Director of Sales and Marketing Solutions at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City, where she played a pivotal role in formulating the sales and marketing strategy for the Javits Center’s expansion in 2021.

Richardson has demonstrated strong experience managing international group sales initiatives, showcasing her robust ability to operate on a global scale. With a proven track record of success in sales and the hospitality industry spanning almost three decades, Richardson is poised to be a valuable leader at the MTCC.

“We are thrilled to welcome Susan Richardson to the MTCC team,” said Ron Pellerine, Interim President & CEO at the Metro Convention Centre. “Her wealth of knowledge and extensive sales leadership experience will propel the success of our sales team even further.”

About the Metro Toronto Convention Centre:
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is Canada’s number one convention and trade show facility. Over the past 40 years, the Centre has hosted over 22,000 events and has added over $9.2 billion in direct spending economic impact to the community. For further information, please visit www.mtccc.com.

Media contact: Melanie Wade, Social Media and Communications Specialist: mwade@mtccc.com

May 13, 2024
Meet the 2024 Canadian Event Awards Recipients

We're Proud to Announce the Recipients of the 27th Annual Canadian Event Awards 

The 2024 award recipients were announced on May 8 at the spectacular Gala presented by Chair-man Mills and hosted by La Primavera Event Space.  The evening was filled with incredible performances produced by Cirque Revolution, stunning aesthetics by Stardust Events, production, staging and audio visual by Spotlight AV, augmented reality and interactive media by Awe-Nest, production by Eclectic Events and many more wonderful moments provided by our partners. 

A special thanks to hosts Shirley Happening and Rayn, the 2024 awards jury and everyone who contributed to this year's awards.  A gallery of event images will be posted online shortly.

2024 Award Recipients

The Gala, presented by Chair-man Mills, was held on May 8 at the beautiful La Primavera Event Space. Four hundred event professionals from across Canada attended this fabulous and chic affair. Thank you to all our amazing event partners, our sponsors, performers, team, and the venue for their support in making this community celebration a success. Please watch our social pages and magazine website, canadianspecialevents.com, for all the coverage.

Best Event By An In-House Team (Venue, Corporate or NFP)
♦ Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, Toronto, ON, Toronto Maple Leafs Outdoor Practice

Best Event by an Association Board or Committee
♦ TIAO – Tourism Industry Association of Ontario, Toronto, ON, Ontario Tourism Summit 2023

Best Conference – Social and Community Impact
TIE
♦ Bob, Montreal, QC, Dream the Impossible 2023
AND
♦ CanPlan Event & Conference Services Inc., Richmond Hill, ON, 18th Deafblind International World Conference

Best Conference – Innovation in Industry
♦ Charlie & Sprocket Inc., Toronto, ON, Ripple Swell Global

Best Brand or Product Launch
♦ Bond Brand Loyalty, Toronto, ON, Mr. Porter’s House Party

Best Private Experiential Marketing Event
TIE
♦ YBIMC Inc., Toronto, ON, Kenada: Barbie Movie Fan Event
AND
♦ prspktvMEDIA, Toronto, ON and Tania Pollack Design, Vaughan, ON, Snapchat FASHION HAUS at the CAFA Gala

Best Public Experiential Marketing Event
♦ Citizen Experiential and Citizen Relations, Toronto, ON, Vizzybility Booth Experience

Best Event for a Community-Based Non-Profit
♦ hala inc., Toronto, ON, Reconnect 2023: Community Foundations Conference Kick-Off Event

Best Event for a High Profile Non-Profit
♦ Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada, Toronto, ON, Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Gala – Teddy Bear Affair

Best Small-Scale Fundraising Event
♦ Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Ice Crystal Gala 2023

Best Large-Scale Fundraising Event
♦ OneWest Event Design & Production, Calgary, AB, L23K

Best Technical Support for an Event
♦ AV-CANADA INC., Mississauga, ON, and CanPlan Event & Conference Services Inc., Richmond Hill, ON, Deafblind International World Conference

Best Audio Visual for an Event
♦ bb Blanc, Vaughan, ON, Honda of Canada Manufacturing 2023 Holiday Party

Best Private Social Event
♦ Fab Fête Event Planning Boutique and Rock Paper Events, Thornhill, ON, Josh’s Bar Mitzvah

Best Cultural Event
TIE
♦ Niagara Casinos, Niagara Falls, ON, Fallsview Casino Resort Lunar New Year – Year of the Rabbit
AND
♦ Reveal Events Group Ltd., Port Coquitlam, BC, and GO2 Productions, Vancouver, BC, Aurora Spirits

Best Event For a City or Municipality – Community Impact
♦ City of Surrey and MRG Events Ltd., Vancouver, BC, Surrey Fusion Festival

Best Event For a City or Municipality – Cultural & Heritage
♦ Moore Carlyle Consulting and MCC Destination Management, Toronto, ON, 2023 Carbon Neutral City Alliance Annual Meeting in Toronto

Best Market, Fair or Festival
♦ Brandlive, Vancouver, BC and Squamish Nation, Squamish, BC, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation 100th Amalgamation Day Festival 2023

Best Event By an Academic Institution
♦ McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, McMaster Welcome

Best Corporate Team Building Event
♦ Sénik The Event Agency, Montréal, QC, 2023 MAXI Chef’s Challenge

Best Trade Show Booth, Display or Pavilion Design
♦ TK Events, Oakville, ON, Dell Technologies at Siggraph

Most Creative Floral Design
♦ Flower Artistry and Lynn Fletcher Weddings, Calgary, AB, A Dance in the Clouds

Most Creative Table Design
♦ Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, White Rock, BC, Alice – Curiouser & Curiouser – The Peace Arch Hospital Gala

Best Event Design/Decor Under $50,000
♦ Nulink Events, Ancaster, ON, BayBiebs World

Best Event Design/ Decor $50,000 – $150,000
♦ Fête Chinoise (PALETTERA INC.), Markham, ON, Fête Chinoise 2023 Lunar New Year Signature Gala + Showcase

Best Event Design/ Decor $150,000 +
♦ Decor and More, Oakville, ON, and Fluid Events, Toronto, ON, Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada Gala – Teddy Bear Affair 2023

Best Corporate Event Under $150,000
♦ Vocation Events Inc. Westmount, QC, 70s Roller Disco – Corporate Holiday Party

Best Corporate Event $150,000 – $450,000
♦ The Concierge Club, Toronto, ON, and SCA ( Sinclair Creative Agency Inc)., Collingwood, ON, Canadian Women Entrepreneur Industry Gala (CWE’s )

Best Corporate Event $450,000 – $750,000
♦ Citizen Experiential and Citoyen, Toronto, ON, Groupe Touchette- 2023 Innovation Summit

Best Corporate Event $750,000 – $1M
♦ OPC Événements, Montréal, QC, SNC-Lavalin rebranding to AtkinsRéalis : Employee Reveal

Best Corporate Event $1M+
♦ Debonair Corporate Events, The Creative Connoisseur and Events by Dionne, Toronto, ON, Multifamily Conference

Best Wedding Creative
♦ Fab Fête Event Planning Boutique, Thornhill, ON and R5 Event Design, Toronto, ON, A + G’s Italian Inspired Vineyard Wedding

Best Wedding Under $100,000
♦ Lynn Fletcher Weddings, Calgary, AB, Surrounded By Love

Best Wedding $100,000 to $300,000
♦ The Good Party, Victoria, BC, Aly & Julianne: A Wedding Story of Love, Logistics, and Creativity

Best Wedding $300,000 +
♦ Cava Rose, Montreal, QC, Dream Wedding in Santorini, Greece

Best Virtual Corporate Event
♦ TK Events, Oakville, ON, Race to Attach

Best Virtual Conference
♦ Reveal Events Group Ltd., Port Coquitlam, BC, CSHP Together: Live From Banff

Best Entertainment Production for a Public Event
♦ e=mc² events, Calgary, AB and Jeffrey Latimer, Toronto, ON, Canada’s Walk of Fame presents Canada’s Rock of Fame

Best Entertainment Production for a Private Event
♦ DeAngelis Entertainment Inc., Toronto, ON, bb Blanc, & ARB Productions, Toronto, ON, John’s 80th Birthday Celebration

Best Entertainment Production for a Corporate Event
♦ BADANG inc., Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, QC, Beyond 100

Outstanding Logistical Achievement
♦ Event Strategy Partners (ESP) Inc., and Chair-man Mills, Toronto, ON, Bloor Street Entertains

Most Outstanding Event Under $450,000
♦ Cantrav Services Inc., Vancouver, BC, Québec Gold De Lys

Most Outstanding Event Over $450,000 +
♦ e=mc² events, Calgary, AB, and Jeffrey Latimer, Toronto, ON, Canada’s Walk of Fame 25th Anniversary Celebration

Most Outstanding Spectacle
♦ BADANG Inc., Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, QC, Beyond 100

Event Industry Volunteer of the Year
♦ Jessilyn Forigo,  Vuepointe Group, Calgary, AB

Emerging Leader Award
♦ Luisa Alvarez, Reveal Events Group, Port Coquitlam, BC

Leslee Bell Spirit of the Industry Award
♦ Bob DeAngelis, DeAngelis Entertainment

Entertainer of the Year
♦ Lorie Hamel, Lorie Hamel Maquillage Artistique, Montréal, QC

Caterer of the Year
♦ Chef de la Mesa Inc., Thornhill, ON

Wedding Professional of the Year
♦ Saaraa Premji Virani, Blush & Co. Weddings and Events, Calgary, AB

Event Professional of the Year
♦ Dustin Westling, OneWest Event Design & Production, Calgary, AB

Congratulations to the Following Companies Awarded Best in Their Respective Categories:

Best Event Photography
♦ Magnolia Studio, Montreal, QC, Santorini Destination Wedding

Most Creative Food Presentation
♦ Chef de la Mesa Inc, Thornhill, ON

Best Video or Filmmaking for an Event
♦ Encore Canada, Mississauga, ON, PCMA CIC 2023 Wrap Video 

Source: Canadian Special Events Magazine

May 10, 2024
ITA Airways expands into Canadian market with new Toronto – Rome nonstop flight

Toronto/Rome—ITA Airways has made its debut in the Canadian market with the launch of its new nonstop connection between Toronto and Rome. The inaugural flight took off today from Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Airport at 4:40 pm.

To celebrate the launch of the new intercontinental route, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the departure gate of Terminal 1 in Toronto Airport in the presence of Emiliana Limosani, Chief Commercial Officer ITA Airways and CEO of Volare, Luca Zelioli, Consul General of Italy, Ivana Jelinic, CEO of the Italian National Tourist Board ENIT, Gianluca Caramanna, Member of Italian Parliament and Advisor to the Minister of Tourism, Kurush Minocher, Executive Director, Customer Experience and Airline Relations, GTAA, Vincent Crisanti, Councillor, City of Toronto, Pierfrancesco Carino, VP International Sales ITA Airways and Massimo Allegri, Regional Manager Americas ITA Airways.

“The launch of ITA Airways' flights between Canada and Italy comes in response to the significant demand for travel between the two nations, driven in part by the substantial Italian Canadian population – stated Emiliana Limosani, Chief Commercial Officer ITA Airways and CEO of Volare. - With our direct flight, we plan to transport to up to 2 million of Italian Canadian passengers who travel between Italy and Canada annually. Toronto, in particular, serves as a pivotal gateway for our airline, facilitating not only point-to-point travel but also connections to various destinations within both countries, thereby catering to both leisure and business travelers - added the CCO - This underscores ITA Airways' commitment to delivering optimal travel solutions to our Clients. The new route has already garnered impressive results in terms of bookings, with over 30,000 passengers booked between May and September."

“The inauguration marks another milestone for bilateral relations between Canada and Italy, partners and allies – said Luca Zelioli, Consul General of Italy - The new flight will increase opportunities for tourists to and from Italy; business and cultural exchanges will as well greatly  profit from this additional connection. ITA Airways is bringing closer two great countries and two great cities, Toronto and Rome”.

“This inaugural flight represents an exciting and eagerly anticipated addition in filling a much-needed gap.” – said Vincent Crisanti, Councillor, City of Toronto. “ITA Airways is addressing a longstanding void in the travel market, strengthening our economic and cultural ties with Italy that will pave the way for enhanced collaboration between the City of Toronto and Rome, Italy.”

“We know demand for travel between Toronto and Rome is strong,” said Khalil Lamrabet, Chief Commercial Officer and interim Chief Operations Officer, Greater Toronto Airports Authority. “Last year more than 50,000 passengers flew indirect to Rome from Toronto, which is why ITA’s new service from Toronto Pearson is a welcome addition and one we are excited to see take-off today.”

"An important link that allows us to strengthen our collaboration with a strategic market. Canada is one of the countries with the highest presence of Italians abroad in the world, and therefore has a weight in the development of return tourism.  The new ITA flight Toronto-Rome therefore represents a further step in the development of tourism in Italy, offering a unique opportunity to increase and diversify tourist flows to our country. Thanks to direct flights to new destinations, we will be able to welcome an increasingly diverse and international audience and promote our rich cultural, food and wine and landscape offer effectively and on a global scale. This new air service not only facilitates access to Italian territory, but also contributes to strengthening our competitive position in the international tourism scene, positioning Italy as a destination of first choice for travelers from all over the world," said Ivana Jelinic, CEO of ENIT.

The new Toronto – Rome Fiumicino flight is operating six weekly frequencies, with daily flights from June to September and five weekly roundtrip flights in October. In May, the schedule includes departure from Toronto at 4:40 pm and arrival in Rome Fiumicino at 7:15 am (local time). Return from Rome Fiumicino is at 10:15 am (local time) with landing in Toronto at 2:05 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, plus Wednesday from June.

ITA Airways will present its new nonstop Toronto - Rome flight to local media representatives and stakeholders during a press event that will take place at the Italian Cultural Institute in Toronto.

The inaugural flight was operated with the new Airbus A330-900 aircraft, which features the most recent breakthroughs in aviation technology. To ensure an exceptional travel experience, the A330-900 offers a three-class configuration with 30 seats in Business Class, which are fully reclinable to a full flat bed, 24 seats in Premium Economy Class and 237 seats in Economy Class including 36 seats dedicated to Comfort Economy – all promising a comfortable and enjoyable journey to our passengers.

The opening of the new Toronto – Rome flight represents an important product for the Company, as it increases connections to and from North America, the first market for ITA Airways after Italy. On 7 April, the new direct Rome Fiumicino - Chicago flight was also inaugurated and with the new North American routes launched in Summer 2024, the number of destinations that ITA Airways operates in the USA and Canada rises to 8.

On 2 June 2024 the direct Rome Fiumicino – Riyad direct flight will be inaugurated, followed by Accra, Dakar, Kuwait City and Jeddah for a total of 57 destinations operated in Summer 2024, of which 16 domestic, 26 international and 15 intercontinental. In addition, in the summer peak, the Company will fly to 11 additional seasonal destinations, selected from the most popular Mediterranean tourist destinations, including Greece, Spain, Croatia and the Italian islands, reachable with direct flights from Rome Fiumicino and Milan Linate.

ITA Airways started its operations on 15th October 2021 with a fleet of 52 aircraft. At the heart of the Company's strategy is its ambition to be an ambassador of Made in Italy by offering personalized services and ensuring a completely Italian in-flight experience at every stage of the journey. This goal is achieved thanks to important partnerships with renowned Italian brands, such as Brunello Cucinelli, who designed the uniforms of the crew and ground staff, Walter De Silva, who created the interiors of ITA Airways' new aircraft, and starred Italian chefs, who are signing the on-board gastronomic offerings. One of the Company's strategic pillars is also its commitment to sustainability, achieved through a continuous fleet renewal with technologically advanced and efficient aircraft.

Tickets for all the new flights can be purchased through the ITA Airways sales channels, on the official ita-airways.com website and via the Company's Customer Center, travel agencies and airport ticket offices.

For press information:
Pietro Caldaroni, Head of Communication and Institutional Relations
Mail: media@ita-airways.com

About ITA Airways
ITA Airways is a company totally owned by the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance for the exercise of business in the air transport sector. ITA Airways aims at creating an efficient and innovative air carrier that will become a reference point in providing Italy with quality connectivity both in terms of international destinations, thus boosting tourism and foreign trade, and within the Country, also taking advantage of the train-air integrated mobility. ITA Airways will place the best customer service at the center of its strategy (through a strong digitization of processes that ensure a best-in-class experience and personalized services), combined with sustainability, in its environmental (new green and technologically advanced aircraft, use of sustainable fuels), social (equality and inclusion for a gender-neutral company) and governance (integration of sustainability into internal strategies and processes) aspects. ITA Airways is a member of SkyTeam alliance as of October 2021.

May 08, 2024
Marriott International Supports Increased Leisure Demand in Canada

Marriott International’s presence in the Canadian market strengthened, as the company celebrated a 36 percent year over year increase in hotel-level leisure revenue in 2023. With 274 hotels currently open and 90 in the pipeline, several factors, including a dedicated focus on lifestyle, upper midscale and extended stay brands; as well as market-specific loyalty program offerings and partnerships, continue to drive the company’s success in Canada.

Lifestyle Brands Driving Success
In an effort to meet the increased demand for leisure travel, Marriott continues to focus on the lifestyle sector with conversion-friendly collection brands such as Autograph Collection and Tribute Portfolio. These “soft brands” offer design flexibility and can provide excellent opportunities for developers and hotel owners wishing to target leisure guests seeking distinctive and unique experiences in stunning locations. One notable example is the HONEYROSE Hotel, Montreal, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel with its art-deco-inspired design and blend of vintage and modern amenities, ideally situated in the heart of downtown Montreal.

“In addition to development teams in Eastern and Western Canada, Marriott International has dedicated sales and marketing teams across Canada,” says Paul Cahill, Senior Vice President, Canada Operations, Marriott International. “Our Canadian-based team engages with owners, developers, customers and guests to truly understand what’s important to these stakeholders in this market. We’re focused on growing our presence in Canada with new openings, localized Marriott Bonvoy partnerships and programming.”

Marriott recently enhanced its leisure offerings in Canada with the introduction of Moxy Hotels, launching its first two properties with the opening of Moxy Halifax Downtown in January 2024 and Moxy Banff which debuted this spring. Moxy Hotels are also planned for various gateway cities throughout Canada including Montreal, Vancouver, and Ottawa over the next three years.

Strategic Focus on Upper Midscale and Extended Stay Brands
With a full operating team and development team for both managed and franchised hotels in Canada, the company is well-positioned to address underserved segments in the Canadian hotel market, including extended stay, upper midscale and midscale properties. Two of the marquee brands in these segments, Fairfield by Marriott (31 hotels open in Canada) and TownePlace Suites by Marriott (21 hotels open in Canada), are amongst the fastest-growing brands in the country, with 24 and 25 properties in Marriott’s pipeline, respectively.

“Marriott International has experienced strong momentum in Canada due to our dedicated focus on conversions and upper midscale and extended stay brands,” says Noah Silverman, Global Development Officer, U.S. & Canada at Marriott International. “We’re expecting leisure demand in Canada to remain strong throughout 2024, particularly in destinations like Vancouver Island, the Okanagan Valley, Atlantic Canada and the Niagara Region.”

Loyalty Enrollment Contributing to Increased Growth
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott's highly awarded travel program with around 203 million members worldwide, offers guests access to more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations, an unparalleled array of experiences, and robust benefits. There are numerous ways for members to maximize their membership through everyday activities, such as credit card purchases and dining out, that will lead to more rewarding travel. Marriott Bonvoy offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences with the best in entertainment, sports, arts, culture, culinary and wellness from Marriott Bonvoy Moments. Members can redeem these experiences by using points accumulated from travel and other activities.

With a deep understanding of the market-specific needs of guests, Marriott Bonvoy has developed a loyal following among Canadians. Through localized marketing efforts and strategic relationships with Live Nation Canada, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Montreal Canadiens and others, engagement with Canadian members is strong. Canadian members can also benefit from global offerings such as the opportunity to bid on access to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team during the Montreal race weekend or experiences with Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour including the opportunity to win a trip to Vancouver including air travel, hotel accommodations, two (2) concert tickets, and a Marriott Bonvoy welcome gift.

For additional information, visit https://www.hotel-development.marriott.com/.

Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of United States federal securities laws, including statements related to expected future project openings and portfolio growth; our development pipeline; brand debuts in certain markets; demand trends and expectations; and similar statements concerning anticipated future events and expectations that are not historical facts. We caution you that these statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to numerous evolving risks and uncertainties that we may not be able to accurately predict or assess, including the risk factors that we identify in our U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Any of these factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations we express or imply in this press release. We make these forward-looking statements as of the date of this press release and undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,900 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 141 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Media Contact
Kimberly Mannino
Senior Manager, Public Relations, U.S. & Canada
Marriott International
Kimberly.a.Mannino@marriott.com

May 07, 2024
ILEA International Announces 2024-2025 Board of Governors and Regional Vice Presidents

McLean, VA—The International Live Events Association (ILEA) is excited to introduce its lineup of volunteer leaders for the 2024-2025 term, including officers and directors of the ILEA International Board of Governors and the Regional Vice Presidents. The term begins on July 1, and these leaders will be officially welcomed during the 2024 Annual General Meeting at the ILEA annual conference, I-24, in Seattle, Washington, on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.

Dustin Westling, CSEP, Chair of the Nominating Committee, commented, "We're thrilled to announce such a talented and dedicated group of individuals who will guide ILEA in the coming year. Their passion and expertise will undoubtedly drive our organization forward."

ILEA INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF GOVERNORS: OFFICERS
Melissa Jurcan, CSEP, President | Compass Group at Amazon
Cecilia Lavin, President-Elect | Evessio
Liz Nutting, CSEP, Secretary | TK Events
India Rhodes, CSEP, Treasurer | Wilkinson Rhodes
Gwendolyn McNutt, CSEP, Immediate Past President | Comcast 

ILEA INTERNATIONAL BOARD OF GOVERNORS: DIRECTORS
Meltem Tepeler | KM Events
Matt Bonavita | Rhythm in Motion
Dona Liston | Lambermont Events
Steve Moore | Affairs to Remember
Armando Seledon, CSEP | Visit San Antonio
Melis Feingold | CSI DMC
Jennifer Matthews | Artisan Oddities Entertainment
Jaclyn Zendrian | Zen Global Events and Management

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS
Tom Kura, RVP US East | Your Love in Lights
Lauren Chumbley, RVP US West | Eclipse Event Co.
Ryan Harmon, RVP US Midwest | Lasting Impressions Event Rentals
Kimberly Beaune, CMP, CSEP, 2023/24 Affiliate Chair - Canada (election in progress) | Creative Twist

ABOUT ILEA
The International Live Events Association (ILEA) is a global community of creative event professionals whose skills, expertise, and experience power some of the most recognized and respected live events worldwide. ILEA advances the live events industry by creating an inclusive global community dedicated to personal and business development and inspiration to elevate all professionals engaged in live events. ILEA’s events, education resources, and certification program provide members with exclusive opportunities for collaboration, thought leadership, and idea-sharing. For more information, visit ileahub.com 

ABOUT I-24
I-24 is not just another conference; it's an immersive experience designed to elevate your creative genius and propel the event industry forward. Featuring thought-provoking speakers and exploring topics ranging from creative cultivation to the future of events, I-24 promises an atmosphere where imagination thrives. Set against the backdrop of one of the most innovative and vibrant cities, I-24 offers an awe-inspiring environment where energy is contagious. Research shows that creating space fosters ideation, and I-24 is dedicated to providing that space for attendees to go beyond. Join us as we charter new territories, blasting off on August 12. For more information, visit ileahub.com/conferences. 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Contact: Beth Knight, CAE, Executive Director
Email: beth.knight@ileahub.com
Phone: (703) 651-8204

April 26, 2024
Destination Toronto Announces Andrew Weir as President & CEO

Toronto—Destination Toronto today announced the appointment of Andrew Weir as President & CEO, effective May 1. Weir has been an integral member of the leadership team at Destination Toronto for the past 18 years, most recently as Executive Vice President.

A proven leader in Toronto’s tourism industry, Weir has served on numerous boards across the industry, including Destination International’s DMAP Board and as Chair of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) from 2021-2023.

“Having conducted a thorough North American search, we are thrilled to announce Andrew Weir as Destination Toronto’s new President & CEO,” said Rekha Khote, Chair of the Board of Directors at Destination Toronto. “Andrew is the right leader for our organization, bringing a deep understanding of Toronto’s visitor economy, a vision for the business, and the ability to bring people together. We are confident that his established strong community connections will act as a catalyst for driving innovation and growth in critical areas of the business.” 

Weir is recognized as a passionate advocate and prominent voice within the industry. In his most recent role as Executive Vice President, he led strategic partnerships between the tourism industry, broader business leadership and government, laying the foundation for the continued growth of the visitor economy and its contribution to the region. Prior to that, as Chief Marketing Officer, Weir championed an organizational transformation to align sales and marketing through powerful brand storytelling. 

“I’m deeply honoured and excited to lead Destination Toronto at this critical time,” said Andrew Weir. “Toronto is Canada’s most-visited destination, and for good reason. The genuine diversity and vibrancy of our arts, food, festivals and neighbourhoods, against one of the world’s truly spectacular skylines, continue to excite and attract visitors from around the world. The opportunity of tourism and meetings in Toronto is immense and we have seen the power of visitor spending to elevate our economy and community.”

“Congratulations to Andrew Weir on his appointment as President & CEO of Destination Toronto,” said Councillor Shelley Carroll, Budget Chief & Mayor’s Economic Development & Culture Champion. “This announcement comes at a pivotal time in our efforts to elevate the impact of the visitor economy, creating new pathways for growth that benefit our entire community.”

Toronto welcomed nearly 9 million overnight visitors in 2023, generating more than $7 billion in visitor spending. As global travel has continued to recover, Toronto remains positioned as a top urban destination for major meetings, business travel and leisure travel throughout the year. 

About Destination Toronto
Toronto’s visitor economy is a vital economic engine for the city, generating $7 billion in visitor spending in 2023. Destination Toronto’s mandate is to reflect the breadth and diversity of Toronto’s people, places and culture to inspire residents and visitors to meet, visit and explore our city. Operating in partnership with the City of Toronto and the Greater Toronto Hotel Association, Destination Toronto markets and promotes the city to attract visitors and major meetings and events and supports local businesses to maximize the opportunities of the visitor economy. For more information, please visit DestinationToronto.com.

Media Contact:
Kathy Motton
Destination Toronto – Senior Communications Manager
kmotton@destinationtoronto.com 
416-721-9203

April 24, 2024
GBTA joins Net Zero Carbon Events initiative as a supporter

Brussels—The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the world’s premier business travel and meetings trade organisation and the voice of the industry, has joined Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE), the worldwide events industry initiative to address climate change as a supporter of the campaign.

Since its launch at Cop 26 in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2021, Net Zero Carbon Events has developed a wealth of resources to support events industry organisations on their journeys to net zero carbon emissions. These include a Roadmap and advisory reports on Venue Energy; Smart Production and Waste Management; Logistics; Travel and Accommodation; Food and Food Waste; Offsetting and Measurement.

With the campaign now focused on implementation in each of these areas, GBTA and NZCE will be working together with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) on implementing the Travel and Accommodation element.

James Rees, President of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), which is driving the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative for the industry said: “We could not be happier than to have GBTA as a supporter. GBTA has unparallelled expertise and experience in the technical aspects of business travel and sustainability, especially through the Sustainability Initiative of the GBTA Foundation. We are delighted to be working with both GBTA and ICCA on this and looking forward to aligning our work and developing common ground for all stakeholders in future.

“It is also a tremendous testimonial to the framework that NZCE has developed that GBTA will be using this for their own events in future.”

“For our members, industry and for the work we do as an association, GBTA is deeply committed and active in helping to create a more sustainable future for global business travel. We are pleased to be part of the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and working with the JMIC and other key organisations to bring the power of our collective efforts to ensure more net zero-focused approaches to the very significant sector of meetings and events,” said Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA.

Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA said: “ICCA is proud to be a founding member of Net Zero Carbon Events, and we're thrilled to have the Global Business Travel Association on board with this incredibly important initiative. One of our pillars as an organisation is sustainability, and ICCA is committed to working with our partners in the industry to promote the overall goal of reducing carbon emissions. It's crucial that the meetings and events community as a whole joins forces to advance sustainable practices and policies around the globe, and as more organisations come on board, we get closer to our goal of Net Zero by the year 2050."

Net Zero Carbon Events is open to all organisations involved in events. Registration is free of charge, but financial contributions are crucial to developing the campaign. Please visitwww.netzerocarbonevents.org/funding-opportunities

For further information.www.netzerocarbonevents.org

For further media information please contact:

ChrisLewis@clareville.co.uk or AlisonLedger@clareville.co.uk

About Net Zero Carbon Events
After the launch of the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge at Cop26, the Net Zero Carbon Event Roadmap was published at Cop27 in November 2022 as a helpful resource. It is available as a Full Report with comprehensive information on how to implement action to achieve Net Zero, and as an Executive Summary. The documents now published are providing the necessary guidance for businesses to apply the roadmap successfully.

More than 30 major meetings and events industry organisations from across the world are now financial contributors to Net Zero Carbon Events, the industry’s global initiative to address climate change that was launched at Cop26 in Glasgow in 2021.

More than 600 organisations have now signed the Pledge or support the initiative which is being led by the Joint Meetings Industry Council – JMIC.

About GBTA:
The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is the leading organization in the business travel and meetings sector, headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area. With over 8,000 members representing the $1.357 trillion global industry, GBTA advocates for stakeholders across six continents. The organization, along with its affiliate, the GBTA Foundation, provides education, events, research, advocacy, and media to over 28,000 travel professionals and 125,000 active contacts worldwide. For more information, please visit GBTA.org and GBTAFoundation.org.

About GBTA’s Sustainability Initiative
The GBTA Foundation’s Sustainability Initiative aims to drive cross-industry collaboration among the users and providers of corporate travel services to deploy solutions that help manage and reduce carbon emissions from travel. Our work includes capacity-building, harmonization and advocacy efforts to empower business travel professionals to advance climate-conscious business travel programs.

GBTA’s Sustainability initiative was made possible by the corporate donations and support from the Foundation’s sustainability partners. For more information or to help support the GBTA Foundation and our Sustainability Initiative, reach out to sustainability@gbta.org

April 24, 2024
Introducing TOOR Hotel: An urban boutique hotel curated for the modern traveler

This design-forward property in downtown Toronto will offer bespoke stays and premium rental residences with unparalleled lake and city views

Toronto/CNW/—Visionary Canadian hotelier, Sukhdev Toor announces the first TOOR Hotel: a distinct lifestyle hotel and residences located in downtown Toronto. This boutique property will offer 232 guest rooms and suites, as well as 181 premium residential rental units. The project will feature a modern French-inspired bistro and bar set over two floors, valet parking, a 1,500 square foot fitness centre and yoga studio, a 3,000 square foot terrace, and an additional 1,100 square feet of meeting and event space. The 33-story development will offer guests and residents unobstructed views of Toronto and Lake Ontario.

This remarkable new property is a gateway to Toronto from the east end of the city, creating a strong marker on Jarvis Street, just north of Moss Park. The Arcadis IBI-designed tower offers a dramatic and distinct design unlike any others in the city. The interplay of forms, architectural elements, materials, finishes, and textures make for a unique and memorable structure in Toronto's skyline.

Curated to offer a distinctive and inspired experience for the modern traveler, TOOR Hotel provides easy access to the best of Toronto. Centrally located in the Garden District in downtown Toronto, TOOR Hotel is the perfect hub to access the financial district, historic sites, green spaces, world-class shopping, dining, arts, and theatre. It is also steps away from the new Moss Park subway station, providing seamless accessibility across the city.

Over the years, TOOR Hotel President and CEO, Sukhdev Toor, has developed dozens of hotels across Canada and the United States under Manga Hotel Group. He brings almost four decades of experience in operational excellence to this new property. Mr. Toor is enthusiastic about the future of hospitality in Toronto: "As Toronto continues to grow, this prime location makes it a perfect retreat for travelers. The TOOR Hotel epitomizes the essence of a true urban lifestyle hotel, bringing a new offering to Toronto," says Mr. Toor. "From the downtown positioning to our thoughtfully designed spaces and architecture, no detail has been spared in providing our guests a unique and memorable experience."

TOOR Hotel is proudly Canadian and represents the values its citizens are known for globally – hospitality and approachability. With a commitment to supporting Toronto, TOOR Hotel highlights the best of the city with personalized touches including locally sourced amenities and offerings. TOOR Hotel crafts a unique stay for guests that evokes sophistication, style, and character. Guests can experience a truly Canadian stay with the country's largest city at TOOR Hotel Toronto.

A Vibrant and Celebratory Architectural Design
TOOR Hotel is an architectural triumph. The Arcadis IBI-designed hotel evokes sophistication with its modern design and character that is representative of Toronto and its continued growth. "We embodied a sense of playfulness when creating this building, introducing organic elements of the natural environment of the Garden District, and using a juxtaposition of articulated boxes, one floating above the other to embody distinct programmatic functions. This interplay of forms alongside the unique combination of luxury hotel suites, rental residences and a shared amenities floor and restaurant make this unlike any other location in the city," says Mansoor Kazerouni, Global Director of Buildings at Arcadis IBI Group.

Design-Forward Rooms Provide Urban Escape in the Heart of Downtown Toronto
TOOR Hotel's guest rooms and suites feature the best in Canadian design inspired by Toronto's vibrant parks and green spaces. Guest rooms and suites welcome relaxation with contemporary interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern amenities including 55" televisions and Nespresso machines. The washrooms have been designed with custom artwork and soothing colours, pulling the room's atmosphere into additional spaces. All guest rooms have Lutron lighting to create a custom atmosphere with its range of smart controls. 

The TOOR Hotel rooms were designed by DesignAgency, a Toronto based award-winning international design studio. "We wanted this property to really celebrate the vibrant heart of the city, in a space that was unlike any other. We drew inspiration by incorporating elements from the city grid forms and Victorian architecture like arches and round towers, reflecting themes of geometry, connectivity, and interlaced layers," says Matt Davis, Founding Partner of DesignAgency.

Inspired Gathering at Muse Bistro + Bar
TOOR Hotel offers destination dining and gathering spaces with the Muse Bistro + Bar. Designed by Mackaywong, Muse Bistro + Bar is a sophisticated dining hub with European-designed interiors and modern French-inspired cuisine. The two-story restaurant, which is over 2,500 square feet, features a ground floor with space for meetings, working and for those grabbing a quick bite on-the-go. The second floor will offer a more refined dining experience alongside an additional 1,100 square feet of meeting and event space. With a custom menu designed by The Fifteen Group, North America's leading restaurant consulting agency, Muse Bistro + Bar promises exceptional food, drink and ambiance for visitors and locals alike.

TOOR Hotel and Residences
TOOR Hotel will open in 2024 and will be the first of four boutique TOOR Hotel Collection properties scheduled to open in downtown Toronto locations over the next five years. The collection will range from lifestyle to luxury 5-star hotels, with each property curated to be a unique reflection of its neighbourhood's aesthetic and atmosphere.

Elevated above the TOOR Hotel, premium rental units comprise the top 15 floors of the building. The 203 Residences will be the first of its kind to offer multi-family residential rentals situated above an upscale hotel. Residents can enjoy hotel-inspired services and conveniences, while engaging in a warm and inviting community. Occupancy begins early summer 2024.

Stay with style in the city at TOOR Hotel. Visit www.toorhotel.com for more.

About TOOR Hotel
TOOR Hotel is an urban boutique hotel that offers a distinctive and inspired experience curated for the modern traveler. Backed by a history of excellence in hotel operations, TOOR Hotel is proudly Canadian and represents the values its citizens are known for globally – hospitality and approachability. Design-forward, comfortable, and memorable, TOOR Hotel features destination dining, valet parking, a 1,500 square foot fitness centre and yoga studio, a 3,000 square foot southern terrace on the 14th floor, and an additional 1,100 square feet of meeting and event space. The 33-story development will offer guests and residents unobstructed views of Toronto and Lake Ontario. Transforming Toronto's skyline, this upscale property provides the perfect setting for immersing in the vibrant and diverse experiences the city has to offer. Stay with style in the city at TOOR Hotel.

About Manga Hotel Group
Manga Hotel Group is a leading Canadian hospitality investment, development, and management group. As a privately held owner and operator, Manga Hotels focuses on the development and management of high-quality residences, independent hotels, and hotels affiliated with prestigious brands such as Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt and the InterContinental Hotels Group. The organization's combined portfolio consists of 28 hotels, 15 food and beverage outlets, 5 high-rise residential rental developments, 9 airport parking sites, and more than 12 projects in progress.

About Arcadis IBI Group
Arcadis is the leading global design and consultancy organization for natural and built assets. We maximize impact for our clients and the communities they serve by providing effective solutions through sustainable outcomes, focus and scale, and digitalization. We are 36,000 people, active in more than 30 countries that generate €4.0 billion in gross revenues. We support UN-Habitat with knowledge and expertise to improve the quality of life in rapidly growing cities around the world.

About DesignAgency
DesignAgency is an award-winning international design studio with 25 years of experience in interior design, architectural and landscape concepting, strategic branding, and visual communications. With studios in Toronto, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles and Barcelona, DesignAgency has a global reputation for creating exceptional environments and brands.

SOURCE The TOOR Hotel

April 23, 2024
Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration culminates $35 million renovation with meeting space completion

Newly designed meeting space offers ideal indoor and outdoor options for groups up to 150

Kissimmee, Fla.—Marking the completion of a $35 million renovation, Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration has unveiled a fully redesigned convention center, complete with attractive indoor and outdoor options. 

The convention center offers 10,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor space revamped with new carpeting, lighting, stylish furniture and other visual enhancements which showcase the hotel’s fresh new modern feel. The centerpiece, the Preserve Ballroom, boasts almost 5,800 sq. ft of space with 6 breakout rooms. Groups seeking to enjoy the warm Florida weather can take advantage of two expansive outdoor areas, a nearly 2,400 sq. ft. social lawn and the recently redesigned casual dining Rum Shack, located poolside.  

Groups can easily transition into a lunch or dinner restaurant buyout in the signature restaurant, the Pointe, adjacent to the convention center, or wind down at the Waves Bar and Grille, perfectly positioned against the backdrop of 20 tranquil acres of lush, tropical gardens near the lobby.

Located just 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World Resort, and an official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor hotel, guests also have access to complimentary scheduled transportation to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

When the meetings business is done, attendees can enjoy two pools, a waterfall and slide, two tennis courts, a fitness area, bars and restaurants ranging from grab-and-go to full-service.  

“The culmination of the convention center meeting space design provides us the ability to offer groups an entire fresh new hotel to enjoy,” said General Manager Carl Rodgers. “We look forward to welcoming groups to our newly designed tropical oasis,” he added. 

“Our convention center offers groups the convenience of contiguous accessibility to all indoor space and immediate access to our lush outdoor options,” said Director of Sales and Marketing Biljana Djokovic. “We are excited to present these attractive options to groups looking for an intimate meeting experience in a stylish, new venue,” she concluded.

For more information, please visit www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mcodk-delta-hotels-orlando-celebration/ or call 407-396-7000.

About Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration
The Delta Hotels Orlando Celebration is located just 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World in Kissimmee, Florida, bordering the charming town of Celebration. Situated on 20 tranquil acres of lush, tropical landscaping, the hotel is just minutes from the theme parks, golf, business hubs, major highways, and a brief, 20-minute transfer to Orlando International Airport. Recently completing a $35 million renovation, the hotel boasts 718 newly designed guestrooms and a refreshed convention center, featuring 10,000 sq. ft of indoor and outdoor meeting space, including the centerpiece Preserve Ballroom, with 6 breakout rooms, and two outdoor areas, including a 2,400 sq. ft. social lawn.  When the meetings business is done, attendees can enjoy two pools, a waterfall and slide, two tennis courts, a fitness area, four restaurants and bars ranging from grab-and-go to full-service.  For more information, please visit www.marriott.com/mcodk.

Media contacts:
DeltaHotels@tjmcommunications.com 
TJM Communications, Inc.
(407) 977-5004

April 22, 2024
WestJet adds six additional Asian destinations to its network through enhanced Korean Air codeshare agreement

Calgary/CNW/—Beginning May 17, 2024, WestJet guests will gain access to six additional cities across four Asian countries from Incheon International Airport (ICN) through an expansion of WestJet's codeshare agreement with Korean Air, one of the world's only 5-star airlines as awarded by Skytrax.

Through the agreement, guests will have more opportunity to explore unique transpacific Asian destinations beyond Seoul with a seamless single connection at ICN and the convenience of booking their entire journey with one ticket, baggage transfers, and earning WestJet Dollars throughout.

New WestJet Codeshare Destinations

  • Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
  • Da Nang, Vietnam (DAD)
  • Hanoi, Vietnam (HAN)
  • Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (SGN)
  • Hong Kong, China (HKG)
  • Singapore (SIN)

"As we prepare for WestJet's inaugural flights between Calgary and Incheon, the timing of this codeshare expansion is ideal.  We are enhancing connectivity to more destinations in Asia for our guests and WestJet Rewards members from one of the world's busiest cities, and Korean Air's global hub" said Jeff Hagen, WestJet Vice-President of Commercial Development and Strategic Partnerships. "Our longstanding reciprocal partnership with Korean Air opens up exciting opportunities for leisure and business travellers to more locations in the Asian continent and offers new guests in Asia access to all of Canada through our global hub in Calgary."

Following the success of WestJet's entry into Asia, the airline recently introduced seasonal service between YYC and ICN. The new route launches on May 17, 2023, and will fly on WestJet's 787 Dreamliner up to three days per week during peak travel periods.

"We are excited to announce an expanded codeshare with our longstanding partner WestJet, offering our valued customers access to a wide range of transpacific destinations," said Tae Joon Kim, Korean Air Senior Vice President and Head of International Affairs & Alliance. "The launch of WestJet's Calgary - Seoul Incheon route will bolster connectivity between Korea and Canada, while our strengthened partnership will seamlessly connect customers to an expanded array of Asian and Canadian cities through our hubs in Incheon and Calgary, respectively."

All WestJet codeshare destinations are now available through WestJet's website, the WestJet app, and travel agent partners, where WestJet Rewards members can earn and redeem WestJet Dollars on their entire journey. Visit WestJet.com for further details.

About WestJet
In 28 years of serving Canadians, WestJet has cut airfares in half and increased the flying population in Canada to more than 50 per cent. WestJet launched in 1996 with three aircraft, 250 employees and five destinations, growing over the years to more than 180 aircraft, 14,000 employees and more than 100 destinations in 26 countries. 

For more information about everything WestJet, please visit westjet.com. 

SOURCE WESTJET, an Alberta Partnership 

April 17, 2024
The Palais des congrès de Montréal showcases nature in Québec to business travellers

Montréal/CNW/—The Palais des congrès de Montréal, in collaboration with Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec as part of its mandate from the Ministère du Tourisme du Québec to promote the destination under the Bonjour Québec brand, unveils a new space for business travellers and convention-goers to gather and network. Called LE PANORAMA, it showcases flagship nature tourism adventures in Québec.

LE PANORAMA completes a series of spaces dedicated to relaxation and informal exchanges in a setting evocative of some of Québec's flagship experiences. These spaces reflect the Palais' desire to build bridges between business tourism and leisure tourism. Boldly innovative, this project is aligned with an expanding trend in tourism: to offer visitors, in search of meaning, unique and authentic moments while in Québec attending an event.

Designed and realized in collaboration with Vannoote Design and Cossette, this new area offers an immersion into the immense playground created by Québec's abundant and diverse natural landscape. A renowned tourism attraction, fall is highlighted here, beckoning business travellers to explore Québec's colourful and flamboyant landscapes that offer an infinite array of outdoor activities. LE PANORAMA features a bicycle path crisscrossing Québec's roadways, an invitation to enjoy responsible hiking, or real-life decors inspired by thrill-seeking adventures, such as via ferratas and ziplines.

In March 2023, the project's two partners announced their plan to create three informal gathering spaces that will showcase the diversity of Québec's tourism offer. Evoking an après-ski ambience, LA STATION was the first space to be introduced, followed a few weeks later by the inauguration of LE SAINT-LAURENT, offering an immersion into the emblematic river's marine life. In just a few months, these spaces became an integral part of the client experience at the Palais.

A fun getaway and a reminder of the importance of safeguarding our biodiversity
LE PANORAMA is designed to be an activity-filled nature outing, with each installation offering its own version of fun, and featuring awareness-raising panels on ecoresponsible practices and biodiversity protection.

On entering the space, visitors discover seven Québec- and Canadian-designed bicycles, manufactured by Cycles Marinoni, Opus Bike, Louis Garneau and Devinci. A screen positioned opposite the bicycles allows business travellers and convention-goers to pedal while watching a video, produced in collaboration Grands Prix Cyclistes of Montréal and Québec City and Freeride Québec, featuring some 12 000 km of mountain biking trails crisscrossing Québec's fall landscapes, including the Route verte, named the most beautiful cycling route in the world by National Geographic.

Further along, five suspended cocoon tents offer an intimate space for relaxation and an opportunity to experience this unusual nature adventure accommodation.

Other surprising installations, equipment evocative of via ferratas and ziplines, immerse visitors in the heart of a picturesque and vibrant environment, faithfully representing Québec's outdoor experiences.

In addition to the relaxing environment and change of scenery, picnic tables scattered here and there make LE PANORAMA an ideal working and meeting space.

Lastly, the serious commitment of the Palais des congrès de Montréal, the Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec and the Ministère du Tourisme to safeguarding biodiversity resonates throughout the space with educational panels explaining the role each of us can play in protecting our natural spaces. Limiting our ecological and noise footprint, protecting wild flora and fauna, fire prevention…a variety of subjects are addressed to remind visitors of responsible conduct when exploring nature.

In keeping with the other thematic spaces in the Palais des congrès, LE PANORAMA combines interactive decors and useful facilities for business travellers, offering them a space that is recreational, unique and relaxing. LE PANORAMA was developed with support from Vélo Québec and Aventure Écotourisme Québec as well as Québec companies Projet vertical, Ébénisterie Maurice Dupuis Inc. and DeVille.

Quotes
"LE PANORAMA showcases our flamboyant fall, a venue for a wide variety of outdoor activities. It's another excellent way to promote the best of Québec while raising awareness of eco-responsible practices and the importance of preserving biodiversity. Bravo to the designers of this magnificent space that will contribute to giving business tourists the desire to explore Québec and to increasing tourism's economic spinoffs!" – Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism and Minister Responsible for the Lanaudière Region

"The third and final space created in collaboration with Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec, LE PANORAMA is a magnificent representation of the outdoor activities Québec nature has to offer. This partnership had two objectives: to open up Québec's rich tourism offer to our international convention-goers and inspire them to extend their stay with us, while providing unique and informal meeting spaces. With the creation of LA STATION, LE SAINT-LAURENT and LE PANORAMA, we can say 'mission accomplished!'" – Emmanuelle Legault, President and CEO of the Palais des congrès de Montréal

"The third stage in this partnership seeks once again to give business travellers from around the world an opportunity to experience Québec in a singular fashion. The quality of the immersive experiences in LE PANORAMA illustrates the capacity of the tourism industry to get off the beaten track and enhance the profile of the Bonjour Québec brand. Alliance is proud to contribute to a process that highlights flagship experiences across the province and, with its touch of audacity, creates magic for visitors by pushing the limits of destination marketing." – Frédéric Dubé, Interim CEO of the Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec

About the Palais des congrès de Montréal
A creative solutions centre and a showcase for the city's spirit and expertise, the Palais des congrès de Montréal has been promoting and hosting large-scale events since 1983. Generating significant economic, social and intellectual benefits, it encourages innovation and acts as a force for progress for both Montréal and Québec. The Palais is firmly committed to sustainability and takes numerous innovative, concrete steps to make it a central component of its business development. With one of the highest customer satisfaction rates in the world, the Palais actively contributes to the international reputation of Montréal, the top host city for international events in America for six years in a row. congresmtl.com

About the Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec
The Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec (Alliance), which represents more than 10,000 businesses and 50 regional and sector-based tourism associations, is the largest provincial business federation in Canada specializing in tourism. It works with private businesses and associations to highlight tourism's crucial contribution to regional vitality, while acting as a spokesperson for its members. The Alliance also carries out mandates from the Ministry of Tourism, including its mandate to promote the province under the Bonjour Québec brand, as part of a unique partnership with the industry. The Alliance's ultimate goal is to help turn Québec into a thriving, sustainable and responsible world-class tourism destination. For more information, visit alliancetouristique.com.

SOURCE Palais des congrès de Montréal

For further information:
Marie-Claude Lizée, Director, Marketing and Communications, Palais des congrès de Montréal, 514 871-5849, medias@congresmtl.com; Flore Bouchon, Manager, Communications and Public Affairs, Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec, 514 264-1202, fbouchon@alliancetouristique.com//////

April 16, 2024
Grand Opening of The Scotsman Hotel

A 5-Star Retreat in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada

Niagara-on-the-Lake/CNW/—The Scotsman Hotel, the newest addition to Niagara-on-the-Lakes's (NOTL) prestigious hospitality scene, proudly announced its grand opening on February 16th, 2024. Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of one of Canada's most cherished wine regions, this upscale country inn is set to redefine luxury and elegance for travelers seeking an unparalleled experience.

Behind The Scotsman Hotel are owners Brenda and Blair McArthur, whose vision was deeply inspired by their time spent in Scotland. Embracing an old-world, classic rural vibe, their hotel offers an exquisite blend of sophistication and charm, with amenities designed to cater to the discerning tastes of its guests. Each of the hotel's five lavishly appointed suites, designed by Lori Morris, is a testament to the art of fine living.

"The Scotsman Hotel is a tribute to all of the love and fond memories we have made in this beautiful town," said Brenda McArthur, Owner of The Scotsman Hotel. "We hope that all who visit experience the enchanting feeling that is woven through the beautiful town of Niagara-on-the-Lake."

Guests can indulge in a culinary journey every morning, crafted by Chef Chris, who highlights local flavors and ingredients. The hotel's commitment to excellence extends to its retreat spaces, making the hotel an ideal destination for hosting a luxe wedding party, executive retreat, and other high-end group getaways. With its elegant lounges, culinary offerings and cozy outdoor patio, The Scotsman Hotel promises to make every occasion memorable.

NOTL, a charming locale in Canada, is renowned for its exquisite wineries, making it a haven for wine enthusiasts. Just a short 20-minute drive from the Lewiston Queenston Bridge, connecting Canada to the United States, luxury and refinement await, beckoning travelers to indulge in the region's delights.

For reservations and more information, visit thescotsmanhotel.ca or contact The Scotsman Hotel at info@thescotsmanhotel.ca or 905-468-9991.

About The Scotsman Hotel
The Scotsman Hotel is a 5-star country inn located in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. Offering an unmatched blend of luxury, comfort, and scenic beauty, The Scotsman Hotel provides guests with an extraordinary stay through its exceptional accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Set against the backdrop of one of Canada's most picturesque regions, The Scotsman Hotel is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a unique and indulgent experience.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/grand-opening-of-the-scotsman-hotel-302117342.html

April 15, 2024
Marriott International Appoints New Senior Leaders to Canadian Team

Bethesda, MD—Marriott International announced today that two new members have been appointed to its Canadian senior leadership team. Susie Grynol will join Marriott International as Market Vice President, Eastern Canada. She most recently served as Chief Executive Officer at the Hotel Association of Canada. Keri Robinson will assume the position of Area Vice President, U.S. Western Mountain Pacific and Western Canada, expanding her current responsibilities. Both positions will report to Paul Cahill, Senior Vice President, Canada Operations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Susie and Keri to our Canadian leadership team. As this region continues to grow, their leadership and expertise will be critical to increasing our presence in the market, as well as driving topline revenue and profit goals for our hotels across Canada,” said Paul Cahill, Senior Vice President, Canada Operations.

Susie Grynol, Market Vice President, Eastern Canada
Susie joins Marriott from the Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) where she served as Chief Executive Officer since 2016. In her new role, Susie will be a key member of the Canadian leadership team supporting Managed by Marriott hotels, Select and Premium brands in Canada. Susie will ensure market-wide program implementation and drive key initiatives, working closely with Area General Managers and property General Managers to positively impact hotel performance in Eastern Canada.

During her tenure at HAC, Susie drove a successful turn-around strategy, building the association’s profile, influence and membership to record levels. Susie also led a crucial lobbying effort for the industry during COVID which yielded $23B in government support. Under her leadership, HAC membership grew by nearly 3000 percent. 

Previously, Susie served as Vice President of Federal Government Relations, head of the Ottawa office and lead spokesperson for the Retail Council of Canada, one of the largest trade associations in Canada.

Susie will begin her role with Marriott on June 3, 2024.

Keri Robinson, Area Vice President, U.S. Western Mountain Pacific and Western Canada
Keri has been with Marriott International for more than 35 years. In 2020, she was promoted to Area Vice President following roles as Area General Manager in the Seattle and San Diego markets for Marriott and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. During her time as Area General Manager with Starwood based in Seattle, Keri had responsibility for the managed, full service properties in Western Canada. 

As part of her expanded role, Keri will be responsible for delivering full P&L accountability and supporting efforts to drive an exceptional customer experience for Managed by Marriott hotels within the region. Keri brings prior experience in the market having previously served as the leader for full service, managed properties in Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton with Starwood.

Keri’s expanded role will be effective May 18, 2024.

“Susie brings deep knowledge of the hospitality industry, strong leadership skills, and award-winning government relations experience to Marriott, while Keri has demonstrated results in the U.S. Western Mountain Pacific region and is set-up for success based on her previous experience as a leader in the Western Canada region,” Cahill said.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 8,800 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Media Contacts:

Marriott International 
Kimberly Mannino 
Senior Manager, Public Relations, U.S. & Canada 
kimberly.a.mannino@marriott.com  

tartanbond 
Melanie Greco 
PR agency of record for Marriott Canada 
melanie.greco@tartanbond.com 

April 15, 2024
Hilton Accelerates Multi Brand, Multi Destination Expansion in Canada

With 180 hotels open and nearly 90 hotels in the pipeline, Hilton is on track to expand its portfolio of hotels by 50% over the next 5 years

Mclean, Va. and Toronto, On.—Leading global hospitality company, Hilton (NYSE: HLT), continues to accelerate its development efforts in Canada. Following a year of rapid multi brand, multi destination growth with 10 new hotel openings, including the first Canopy by Hilton in Canada, Hilton ended 2023 with 180 open hotels in the country spanning more than 28,000 rooms across 11 brands. With nearly 20 deals signed in 2023, Hilton’s Canada pipeline consists of approximately 90 hotels and more than 11,000 rooms and will introduce Spark by Hilton and Motto by Hilton into Canada in 2024.  Hilton will soon surpass 200 hotels in Canada, and plans to increase its portfolio of hotels by 50% over the next several years.

“We are excited about our continued momentum in Canada, as a result of our organic multi-brand, country-wide growth strategy,” said Jeff Cury, senior director of development, Canada, Hilton. “We remain focused on expanding our portfolio to every province across the country with both existing and new-to-market brands and are committed to offering business and leisure travelers robust options in the destinations they want to visit.” 

Lifestyle Brands Flourish

In 2023, Hilton opened Canopy by Hilton Toronto - Yorkville, marking the debut of the Canopy by Hilton brand in Canada and demonstrating developer affinity for lifestyle brands that deliver elevated, boutique hotel experiences. The company also signed five new deals including Motto by Hilton Montreal Downtown, the first Motto by Hilton hotel in Canada that will give travelers the opportunity to live like a local in Montreal’s downtown. In 2024, Revery Toronto Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton will be the second Curio Collection by Hilton branded property in Canada. In the next five years, Hilton plans to triple its presence in the lifestyle category with new hotels planned in highly desired destinations including Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Niagara Falls and more.

Spark by Hilton Readies for Launch

In 2023, Hilton signed six new deals under its premium economy hotel brand Spark by Hilton, which provides a reliable and comfortable stay with friendly service for every guest, all at an accessible price. The brand plans to ignite growth in Canada in 2024 with the opening of four new properties including Spark by Hilton Toronto Markham, Spark by Hilton Oshawa, Spark by Hilton Woodstock, and Spark by Hilton Owen Sound

Focused-Service Fuels Expansion

Focused-service brands continue to fuel Hilton’s growth in Canada, representing more than 60% of the company’s pipeline in the country. In 2023, Hilton opened five focused-service hotels including Tru by Hilton Toronto Airport West and four properties under the Hampton by Hilton flag in downtown Toronto, Cornwall, Hamilton, and Midland. Tru, the game-changing brand that reimagined the category, is driving growth with a footprint set to expand from three hotels to more than 15. Additionally, with 70 open hotels and upwards of 25 in design or construction, Hampton is on track to reach the 100th hotel milestone in the next five years, strengthening its position as a premier focused-service brand in the country and further underscoring its status as a global powerhouse.

Extended-Stay Delivers Long-Term Growth

In Canada, Hilton currently welcomes guests at more than 30 extended-stay properties, with another 20 hotels in the pipeline. The category’s momentum is led by the Home2 Suites by Hilton brand, which has witnessed rapid growth and robust owner interest across the country. In 2023, Hilton opened Home2 Suites by Hilton Huntsville, Home2 Suites by Hilton Quebec City, QC and Home2 Suites by Hilton Thunder Bay and signed five new deals.  In 2024, Home2 Suites by Hilton Kingston and Home2 Suites by Hilton Kitchener will open continuing the accelerated expansion of the brand.

Full-Service driven by DoubleTree by Hilton

With over 20 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in operation and more than seven in the pipeline, DoubleTree by Hilton continues to be the driver of growth in the full-service category in Canada. In 2023, Hilton signed DoubleTree by Hilton Brome Missisquoi Resort in Quebec and in 2024 DoubleTree by Hilton Kingston and DoubleTree by Hilton West Kelowna are expected to open their doors, expanding the brand’s presence in Ontario and British Columbia.

Throughout Canada, Hilton has more than 180 hotels and over 28,000 rooms, spanning 11 brands, in nearly 90 cities, 10 provinces and three territories with a multi-brand presence from Vancouver and Montreal to Quebec, Toronto and Winnipeg.

For more Hilton development news, please visit stories.hilton.com

About Hilton
Hilton is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising more than 7,500 properties and nearly 1.2 million rooms, in 126 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for seven consecutive years. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 180 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on FacebookTwitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube

April 11, 2024
Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) Celebrates the Global Meetings Industry Day, Highlighting the Power of Collaboration

Brussels—JMIC, the Joint Meetings Industry Council, is pleased to be part of the worldwide celebration of Global Meetings Industry Day, a day that marks the importance of the meetings industry globally.

The meetings industry is a vibrant and varied environment, providing a space for human progress and development. Today, as we celebrate the meetings industry, we acknowledge the essential role of in-person interactions in creating innovation, promoting cooperation, and tackling the urgent issues of our time. Humans have a natural need to gather, exchange ideas, and cooperate for shared purposes, and the meetings industry enables these powerful exchanges.

"The importance of Global Meetings Industry Day is that it recognises the significant role of meetings in changing our world for the better," says James Rees, President of JMIC. "At JMIC, we are dedicated to promoting the meetings industry and demonstrating its benefits, from local community legacy to the widest global perspective. Through advocacy and collaboration, we will continue to strengthen the voice of the meetings industry and showcase its lasting benefits and outcomes."

We mark Global Meetings Industry Day by acknowledging the meetings industry's ability to overcome barriers and cater to all fields around the world. Meetings are essential for enhancing economic development, stimulating innovation, and advancing social change. They help to determine the future of communities across the globe.

As we celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day, JMIC invites participants from all sectors of the meetings industry to renew their dedication to working together, innovating, and delivering high-quality results. Together, we can use the power of meetings to build a more equitable, sustainable, and thriving future for ourselves and next generations.

About JMIC: The Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) is a global organisation that represents the combined interests of major international industry associations in the meetings and events sector. JMIC advocates for the industry's impact, value, and sustainability on a global level.

For press enquiries, please contact:
Chris Lewis
chrislewis@clareville.co.uk

April 10, 2024
Global Meetings Industry Day 2024 Highlights the Power of Working Together in the Event Industry

Calgary, AB – Joint Media Release—The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC), Meeting Professionals International Calgary (MPI), Encore, Calgary Marriott Downtown, Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS), and SAIT celebrate partnerships at Global Meetings Industry Day.

Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) is an annual international day that recognizes the economic and social importance of the events industry and celebrates the business meetings, events, conferences, and tradeshows that bring people together. GMID will take place on April 11, 2024, where across Canada, industry associations are hosting educational and networking events, for meeting professionals and industry leaders.

Meeting Professionals International Calgary (MPI) returns with One Talks at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre for a one-day conference tailored to the events industry and celebrating GMID. This year’s theme – The Power of Together – looks to empower the future of the events industry and how professionals can innovate, educate, and aspire - together. Featuring a lineup of educational speakers from across North America, One Talks will offer a blend of learning and networking while sparking innovative ideas for the future of the events industry.

“The meetings industry thrives on teamwork and working together. From planners to suppliers, we are stronger together, creating moments that ignite ideas and experiences that foster collaborations and friendships. MPI’s motto rings true “When we meet, we change the world.“– Sandra Gollnick, President at MPI Calgary

“The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre is celebrating 50 years as Canada’s first purpose-built convention centre and has played an integral part in impacting Calgary’s economy by attracting conventions and meetings from around the world. The past five decades would not have been possible without our partnerships and we cannot lose sight of the power and importance of working together in our industry.” – Kurby Court, President and CEO at the CTCC

“GMID is an opportunity to reconnect, reinvigorate, and look forward to the bright future of the meetings and events industry. This event will have attendees reimaging innovative ideas for the future of our business, and initiate collaboration with likeminded industry leaders. Thanks to the CTCC and the rest of our partners, for advocating on the importance of business travel, meetings, and events – key aspects of the business at Encore.” – Mark Della Valle, Regional Director Hotels & Venues Alberta at Encore

“The meetings and events industry is a people-centric industry where teamwork is essential for executing exceptional events. Collaboration in the events industry extends beyond the internal workings of a hospitality establishment and encompasses engagement with the broader community to create mutually beneficial opportunities for promotion and support in an ever-evolving industry.” – Brian Slot, Hospitality and Tourism Instructor at SAIT

“A healthy and vibrant event industry is critical in providing places for professional speakers to share our expertise and messages. The power of working together means that when all of us in the event industry come together to create the most impactful and memorable experiences for our audiences, everyone benefits." – Kimberly Lyall, CAPS Alberta Chapter President and Professional Speaker

Click Here for more information about One Talks on Global Meetings Industry Day

For more information about Meeting Professionals International Calgary or media inquiries contact:

Shannon Della Valle
VP Communications
C: 409.968.6390
E: shannon@mpi-gcc.org

For more information about CTCC or media inquiries contact:
Bre Tighe
Marketing & Communications Specialist
C: 403.690.0237
E: bret@calgary-convention.com

For more information about Encore or media inquiries contact:
Madeleine Bart Vice President – Creative & Marketing
E: madeleine.bart@encoreglobal.com

For more information about the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers or media inquiries contact:
Kimberly Lyall
Alberta Chapter President and Professional Speaker
C: 403-593-1942
E: kimberly@kimberlylyall.com

For more information about SAIT or media inquiries contact:
Brian Slot Hospitality and Tourism Instructor
E: brian.slot@sait.ca

April 10, 2024
Caroline Lepage Appointed CEO of the Québec City Convention Centre

On the evening of April 3, 2024, the Government of Québec announced the appointment of Ms. Caroline Lepage as President and CEO of the Québec City Convention Centre. She succeeds Mr. Pierre-Michel Bouchard, who had held the position since 2007. Ms. Lepage will take office on April 8, 2024. She was previously Executive Director of the Y.W.C.A. Québec FoundationCe lien s'ouvrira dans une nouvelle fenêtre

Source: Centre des congrès de Québec

April 09, 2024
A New Sustainably Built Hotel in Laval: Courtyard by Marriott® Opens at Espace Montmorency

Laval, QC/CNW/—MONTONI, the Fonds immobilier de solidarité FTQ and Montez Corporation, the partners in the Espace Montmorency development, are proud to announce the opening of the new Courtyard by Marriott® hotel in the heart of Laval's new downtown. Located at 500 rue Lucien-Paiement, the establishment features 188 rooms on 10 floors, a signature restaurant and an open-air bar.

This $45-million hotel project is backed by a group of investors consisting of MONTONI, the Fonds de solidarité FTQ, Cogir and Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada, which will also manage the hotel. The latter is the Canadian subsidiary of HHM Hotels, internationally renowned for its expertise and high-quality administration.

Espace Montmorency is notable for its green design, which adheres to the most stringent sustainability standards, an increasingly important selection criterion for small businesses and large corporations, both Québec-based and international, that are adopting carbon neutrality targets.

A new business destination
Business clientele demand is continuing to increase in Montréal Metropolitan Region and in Laval specifically. The Courtyard by Marriott® Montréal Laval, connected directly to Montmorency métro station by an underground tunnel, meets that growing demand and will become a destination of choice for corporate clients looking to organize conventions and events in Laval and seeking business travel accommodations.

Hotel guests have access to all services offered in the Espace Montmorency complex, as well as a business centre for meetings, individual work spaces, reception halls, a restaurant, open-air bar and exclusive terrasses, access to the complex's 60,000-square-foot green inner courtyard, as well as to its indoor parking garage. The new establishment's location is ideal for business customers, with a tunnel connecting it to Montréal via the metro, and both the Palace Convention Centre and Place Bell arena just steps away.

LEED Gold certifications
Espace Montmorency was planned according to rigorous environmental values designed to make it a benchmark mixed-use property for the future. Commitment to the principles of sustainable development was a key driver of the project's development. Today, these measures are paying off in the form of energy savings of more than 50%, with the complex's energy loop resulting in a 92% decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Espace Montmorency has obtained LEED for Neighbourhood Development Gold certification. The partners also targeted LEED Gold certification for the buildings' cores and shells, reflecting:

  • Water savings of 45%
  • Use of 15% recycled materials
  • Use of 35% regional content

Quotes

"We are extremely proud to announce the official opening of the new Courtyard by Marriott® Montréal Laval at Espace Montmorency. The final component of this complex is now a reality. As a developer, being part of large-scale projects such as this one, which energizes the economic and social vitality of Laval's downtown, is our motivation every single day." 
– Dario Montoni, President, Montoni Group

"Espace Montmorency stands apart for its mixed-use vocation that makes it an ideal location for the opening of a new hotel. The Fonds de solidarité FTQ is proud to be part of this project, which will enhance the tourism services available in Laval and the metropolis. The Fonds has been encouraging hotel projects in Québec for more than 25 years, and Espace Montmorency, a development that is constantly expanding and is recognized for its location, is enabling us to embark on a new adventure."
– Daniel Hinse, Vice-President, Investments – Entertainment and Consumer Goods, Fonds de solidarité FTQ

"As one of the leading operators in the Canadian hotel industry, it was natural for us to partner in an innovative project like Espace Montmorency, which is a model of sustainable real-estate development in the heart of downtown Laval, and in so doing add an 11th hotel to our management portfolio in the Greater Montréal Area. We welcome the opportunity to contribute to this ambitious project in the region, which addresses a need in the business community."
Serge Primeau, Managing Partner, Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada

"This is a third hotel investment for Cogir. We're delighted to be able to grow in this industry by renewing the experience with renowned experts such as Urgo and Marriott.  The Laval region is increasingly hosting major corporate and cultural events and this new hotel, strategically located opposite Place Bell and offering a wide range of services within the superb Espace Montmorency complex, will meet a growing demand in the region."
– Mathieu Duguay, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer, Cogir Real Estate

Technical specifications

 –  188 rooms and suites

  • 68 standard rooms with king bed and sectional sofa bed
  • 98 standard rooms with two queen beds
  • 7 executive rooms with king bed
  • Studio style with living-room space
  • 7 executive rooms with two queen beds
  • Studio style with living-room space
  • 8 suites with king bed
  • Closed bedroom
  • Living room
  • Bar counter

Room amenities:

  • Safe
  • Microwave
  • Coffeemaker
  • Mini-fridge
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Hair dryer
  • Soaps, shampoo, conditioner and body moisturizing cream
  • Free Wi-Fi

          –  More than 3,000 square feet of meeting space

  • 4 rooms
  • Capacity up to 150
  • Abundant natural light
  • Rooms with built-in audiovisual equipment

           –  Signature restaurant: Rosso Cielo

  •  Restaurant, bar and terrasse on the 2nd floor
  • Bar and terrasse with a panoramic view on the 10th floor roof

           –  Business centre
           –  Fitness centre
           –  Laundry

About MONTONI
A pioneer of sustainable building in Canada, MONTONI develops, builds and manages real estate projects at the leading edge of design, performance, urban planning and occupant wellness. Its fundamental purpose is to create value for its clients, the environment and the community. To date, MONTONI has completed more than 700 projects representing over 30 million square feet of industrial, commercial, institutional and residential construction, with another 25 million square feet under development—an impressive portfolio of properties across Québec.

Proudly holding the title of one of Canada's Best-Managed Companies for nearly 25 years, MONTONI has committed to making ESG criteria a permanent strategic reflex. It has completed more than 4.2 million square feet of LEED-certified buildings and, among projects under way, is targeting LEED certification for close to 7 million square feet. Additionally, it is in the process of acquiring zero-carbon building (ZCB) certification for nearly 2 million square feet. Its ambition: to build the real estate heritage of tomorrow that will be a source of pride for future generations. For more information: www.groupemontoni.com

About the Fonds de solidarité FTQ
A source of pride for Quebecers, the Fonds de solidarité FTQ fulfils its mission thanks to a unique business model created 40 years ago. Since its inception, the Fonds has rallied Quebecers, collecting and channelling the retirement savings of its 765,721 shareholders-savers into investments that help drive the Québec economy.

With net assets of $18.4 billion as at May 31, 2023, the Fonds supports more than 3,700 companies through venture and development capital investments underpinned by the conviction that impact is created as much by financial as social returns. For more information, visit fondsftq.com. or our company page on LinkedIn.

About Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada
Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada is a hotel manager and developer that has earned an industry-leading position in Canada. With more than four decades of experience, the Urgo team enjoys a sterling reputation in hotel management, acquisition, development and design. In 2022, Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada merged with Hersha Hospitality Management (HHM), which considerably expanded the company's footprint, bringing the number of properties under management to 243 hotels in North America, including 17 in Canada.

About Cogir Real Estate
Incorporated in 1995, Cogir Real Estate employs close to 16,000 people who are passionate about real estate. With our constant desire to give purpose to real estate, we strive to maintain a human focus, to create and to excel in our quest to design living environments that are pleasant, functional and a reflection of their occupants. Our team manages over 420 properties throughout Canada and the United States. We oversee 6 million square feet of commercial property and 60,000 housing units, including more than 220 privately owned seniors' residences. The Cogir Foundation supports projects and causes involving four major domains, namely youth, seniors, cultural diversity and the environment.

SOURCE Groupe Montoni

For further information: Media requests: Frédérick Truchon-Gagnon, Director, Public Affairs and Communications, MONTONI, ftgagnon@groupemontoni.com, 438 350-1001; Frédérique Lavoie-Gamache, Advisor, Media Relations, Fonds de solidarité FTQ, frederique.lavoie@fondsftq.com, 438 364-1596; Arielle D'Amboise, Director, Sales and Marketing, Courtyard by Marriott® Montréal Laval, arielle.damboise@marriott.com, 514 952-2133; Caroline Elie, Director, eCommerce, Urgo Hotels & Resorts Canada, caroline.elie@hhmhotels.com, 438 316-6023; Brigitte Pouliot, Director, Communication, Culture et Cogir Fondation; Cogir Immobilier, bpouliot@cogir.net, (438) 869-6390

April 09, 2024
IAEE, MPI, and SITE celebrate the relaunch of the Global MICE Collaborative

A new pan-industry partnership is relaunching this month, with three association powerhouses teaming up to deliver two inspiring educational offerings designed for new MICE industry talent.

The Global MICE Collaborative (“the Collaborative”) is a joint initiative of the International Association of Exhibitions & Events® (IAEE), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE).

With an overarching aim to advance the global meetings, incentives, conferences & exhibitions (MICE) industry, the Collaborative provides a convenient single solution for education and training to accelerate workforce development and destination capabilities within the business events industry worldwide.

Initially launched in 2018, the Global MICE Collaborative delivered educational content in Shenzhen (China) and Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) before the global pandemic imposed a mandatory pause in its activities.

The Collaborative is now re-launching with a keynote on Business & Event Trends for MICE Professionals at The Meetings Show, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore (April 17-18, 2024) followed by MICE Fundamentals: Conference, Exhibition & Incentive Events, a one-day course available in-person in Germany on Monday, May 13, 2024, the day before IMEX Frankfurt commences. This course will also be available at future industry events, which will be announced in later communications.

Commenting on the re-launch, IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, said, “The Global MICE Collaborative brings three of the industry’s best-known associations — IAEE, MPI and SITE — together to provide the global community of business event professionals with a ‘best of’ collaboration, initially focused on education. MPI brings networking, thought leadership and education for meetings; SITE for incentives; and IAEE for conventions and exhibitions. We bring indispensable connections to our combined communities of over 110,000 MICE professionals located all over the world.”

Paul Van Deventer, President and CEO of MPI, added, “Over the past three years the business events industry has seen significant change in workforce composition. Some reports show that upwards of 60 percent of industry professionals are new and the average age has declined by nearly 10 years. This brings forth a significant opportunity for new, fresh thinking, yet also demonstrates the need for skill development. Our MICE Fundamentals course provides the perfect pan-industry immersion for those new individuals entering this amazing industry. It also provides the perfect primer for the more specialized certification programs that each of our individual associations offer: IAEE’s Certified in Exhibition Management (CEM) Learning Program; MPI’s Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM); and SITE’s Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) and Certified Incentive Travel Professional (CITP).”

SITE CEO Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, concluded, “As more regions, countries and cities around the globe recognize the hard dollar and soft power contribution of meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, the demand for professionally trained business events executives is increasing. That’s why the leading associations in the industry have joined forces to develop the best MICE workforce in established and emerging markets worldwide. IAEE, MPI and SITE look forward to expanding the scope of our ‘Collaborative’ and to serving an industry that currently makes a $1.6 trillion USD contribution to global GDP.”

Further details on the Global MICE Collaborative and registration for the MICE Fundamentals course are available at http://micecollaborative.com/

For further information, please contact

Nicole Bowman, MBA, CEM-AP
Vice President, Marketing & Communications, IAEE
nbowman@iaee.com

Drew Holmgreen
Chief Brand Officer, MPI
dholmgreen@mpi.org

Pádraic Gilligan, CIS, CITP
Head of Marketing, SITE
 pgilligan@siteglobal.com

The Global MICE Collaborative (“the Collaborative”)
The Global MICE Collaborative is a joint initiative of the International Association of Exhibitions & Events (IAEE), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE). With its overarching aim to advance the global meetings, incentives, conferences & exhibitions (MICE) industry, the Collaborative provides a convenient single solution to provide education and training to accelerate workforce development and destination capabilities within the business events industry in both established and emerging markets worldwide.

About IAEE
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE) is the global association for the exhibitions and events industry, including more than 1,300 show organizers, exhibitors and exhibition supplier companies and over 12,000 individual members in 52 countries.  Along with the globally recognized Certified in Exhibition Management® (CEM) learning program and designation, IAEE has a strong focus on advocacy initiatives.
www.iaee.com

About MPI
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest meeting and event industry association worldwide. The organization provides innovative and relevant education, networking opportunities and business exchanges, and acts as a prominent voice for the promotion and growth of the industry. MPI has a global community of more than 110,000 meeting and event professionals including nearly 13,000 engaged members. It has It has nearly 70 chapters, clubs and members in more than 75 countries worldwide. "When we meet, we change the world."
www.mpi.org

About SITE
Founded in 1973, SITE is a professional association of 2,700 members located in 87 countries, working in corporations, agencies, airlines, cruise companies, and across the entire destination supply chain. We bring value to our members at both global and local chapter level by networking, online resources, education, certification, and advocacy. SITE is deeply committed to the new generation and operates a best-in-class Young Leaders program and dedicated annual conference.
www.siteglobal.com 

April 08, 2024
The Tourism Partnership of Niagara Welcomes Darryl MacMillan as New Executive Director

Niagara/CNW/—The Tourism Partnership of Niagara (TPN) is pleased to announce the appointment of Darryl MacMillan as its new Executive Director. With over 20 years of experience in strategy development, brand marketing, government relations, and executive leadership, MacMillan brings a wealth of expertise to his new role.

MacMillan's extensive background includes serving as a board director at the Ontario Craft Wineries, where he played a pivotal role in developing strategic plans and negotiating agreements with government and industry stakeholders. Notably, he contributed significantly to the development of the Ontario Wine Industry's 2030 Vision document, showcasing his commitment to shaping the future of the wine tourism and hospitality sectors.

Tina Truszyk, Chairwoman of TPN, expressed confidence in MacMillan's abilities, stating, "Darryl's deep multi-level government relations experience advocating for stakeholders in the Canadian winegrowing, hospitality, and tourism industries make him a great fit for this position. His strategic vision and leadership will be valuable in advancing TPN's mission to enhance and grow Niagara's tourism region."

The Tourism Partnership of Niagara, a non-profit industry-led organization funded by the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism, and Culture Industries, is one of 13 Regional Tourism Organizations in Ontario (TPN is officially designated as RTO2). Collaborating with sub-regional partners such as Niagara Falls Tourism, Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake, and others, TPN aims to establish Niagara as the No. 1 international tourism destination in North America.

"Our goal is to develop a compelling leisure destination brand that strengthens Niagara's reputation as a world-renowned travel destination," said MacMillan. "I am thrilled to join TPN in its mission to promote this vibrant region and drive tourism growth."

About Tourism Partnership of Niagara
Tourism Partnership of Niagara
 (TPN) is a non-profit industry led organization funded by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport (MTCS). We are one of thirteen Regional Tourism Organizations in the Province of Ontario (RTO2). Our sub-regional partners Niagara Falls Tourism, Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake, City of St. Catharines Department of Economic Development and Tourism, Niagara Benchlands and Niagara's South Coast Tourism Association. The Tourism Partnership of Niagara plays a leadership role in the Niagara Tourism and Hospitality apparatus that helps to shape the Niagara narrative to attract business and leisure consumers to Niagara in providing a world-class, four-season travel destination to domestic and international markets.

SOURCE Tourism Partnership of Niagara

April 04, 2024
Las Vegas to Celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day on April 11

A resort marquee takeover to feature the GMID logo and campaign hashtag, #MeetingsMatter

Las Vegas—The Las Vegas resort community will unite to celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) on April 11, 2024, showcasing the value of in-person meetings and conventions to Southern Nevada with a marquee takeover featuring the campaign hashtag, #MeetingsMatter. Las Vegas resorts will also feature blue exterior lighting to mark the initiative conceived by the U.S. Travel Association (USTA), the premier advocacy association for the travel industry.

GMID showcases the impact of the meeting industry to national and local economies. Meetings move industries forward while fostering deeper connections, education, and training opportunities for businesses. According to USTA, in 2023 there was $119 billion in meeting and event-related travel spending in the U.S., which directly supported nearly 600,000 American jobs.

“Meetings provide undeniable value to Southern Nevada as our visitors combine business with the iconic Las Vegas experience,” said Lisa Messina, chief sales officer of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “GMID is our opportunity to recognize the many organizations that prioritize in-person meetings in our destination. They help move business forward while driving job creation and economic growth in our community.”

The last year has been monumental for Las Vegas’ tourism industry, and business travel continues to benefit. In addition to new investments and offerings throughout the destination, Las Vegas was on the world’s stage with the inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix in late 2023 and Super Bowl LVIII in early 2024, which drove global awareness and record visitation.

In 2023, Las Vegas welcomed nearly 6 million business travelers, many of whom added a leisure trip before or after a meeting or convention. According to data compiled by the LVCVA Research Center, when a tradeshow or event is hosted in Las Vegas, organizers generally receive a nine-percent boost in attendance compared to other destinations.

There is now 15 million square feet of meeting and convention space throughout Southern Nevada - more than any other U.S. destination. Convention business drives Sunday through Thursday visitation to help fill 155,000 hotel rooms in the area. Business travelers also stay longer and spend on average a third more while in the destination. In 2022, convention visitor spending in the destination supported more than 38,000 local jobs and drove $7.5 billion in economic impact.

Las Vegas also continues to enhance the experience for business travelers. A $600 million renovation of the Las Vegas Convention Center’s (LVCC) legacy campus is underway, which will extend the technology customer experience, and contemporary design and architecture of the West Hall. The Venetian Convention and Expo Center and the Mandalay Bay Convention Center are also undergoing renovations. In 2023, the three Las Vegas facilities were among the Wall Street Journal’s list of top convention centers in the U.S., with the LVCC ranking number one.

For more information on meetings and conventions in Las Vegas, visit www.vegasmeansbusiness.com.

ABOUT THE LVCVA
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is charged with positioning Southern Nevada as the undisputed global destination for leisure and business travel along with operating the 4.6 million square-foot Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC). With more than 155,000 hotel rooms and more than 15 million square feet of meeting and exhibit space in Las Vegas, the LVCVA's mission centers on attracting visitors to the area. The LVCVA also owns the Vegas Loop at Las Vegas Convention Center, designed and operated by The Boring Company, and also owns the Las Vegas Monorail, an elevated 3.9-mile system with seven stops throughout the resort corridor. For more information, go to www.lvcva.com, www.visitlasvegas.com or www.vegasmeansbusiness.com.

April 04, 2024
Destinations International Strengthens Commitment to Indigenous Tourism through New ITAC Partnership

Washington, D.C.—Destinations International (DI), the leading resource for destination organizations, today announced a new partnership with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). This alliance aims to deepen the understanding and appreciation of Indigenous tourism through education, fostering authentic engagement and promoting The Original Original mark of excellence.

Both organizations feel this collaboration is a step towards empowering destinations to engage authentically with Indigenous tourism business owners, benefiting both visitors and Indigenous communities.

"Through our partnership with Destinations International, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous tourism and its cultural significance within the global travel industry,” says Keith Henry, President & CEO of ITAC.  “Through education and raising awareness of The Original Original mark of excellence, we empower destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism business owners, thereby enriching the travel experience for visitors while promoting economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. Further, Destinations International’s strategic priorities for destination organizations in 2024 align with ITAC’s vision to help make Canada become the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030."

Reflecting on the successful 2024 International Indigenous Tourism Conference, DI's Chief Inclusion Officer, Sophia Hyder Hock, emphasized the association's ongoing initiatives to promote genuine appreciation over appropriation and to amplify Indigenous voices in tourism. "Our partnership with ITAC aligns perfectly with these efforts, further enabling us to support our members in making meaningful contributions to cultural preservation and understanding."

Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International, added, "This partnership signifies a milestone in our journey towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse tourism industry. By prioritizing Indigenous-led storytelling and education on      The Original Original mark, we underscore our commitment to responsible and respectful destination management."

As destination management organizations get ready to welcome the return of summer, there is no better time than now for industry and travelers to support the revitalization of Indigenous cultures by choosing The Original Original mark of excellence

The collaboration will also feature a joint research project with destination organizations to explore best practices in Indigenous tourism, setting a precedent for how destinations worldwide can engage with and support Indigenous-led tourism initiatives.

About Destinations International:
Destinations International is the world’s largest and most reliable resource for destination organizations. In short - DI educates, equips, and empowers our members to grow the success of their destinations and to excel professionally. Membership grants access to a wealth of important industry resources, educational opportunities, and exclusive benefits. For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.

About Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC):
The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015. ITAC is the lead organization tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol.

Media Contacts:
Gretchen Hall
ghall@destinationsinternational.org
1.202.835.4211 

Krystal Carter
tartanbond, on behalf of ITAC
krystal.carter@tartanbond.com
1.647-271-2274 

Jovily Martone
tartanbond, on behalf of ITAC
jovily.martone@tartanbond.com
1.416.319.8296