The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) received a 2018 New Jersey Tourism Excellence Award from the New Jersey Tourism Industry Association (NJTIA) in the Advertising category.
The award was presented to John Siciliano, executive director of GWTIDA, and Ben Rose, director of marketing and public relations for GWTIDA during the NJTIA Advocacy Breakfast on May 9.
The winning 2018 advertising campaign, ‘Fall in Love with the Wildwoods’, targeted Baby Boomers, ages 55 to 70, with interests in beach trips, attractions, dining out, shopping and nightlife. The overall strategy was to attract additional overnight stays, vacations, and weekend getaways during the less-busy fall to extend the traditional tourism season.
“The ‘Fall in Love with the Wildwoods’ campaign highlighted how the Wildwoods are the ideal vacation destination, for any time of year,” said Ben Rose, director of marketing and public relations for the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA). After summer, the fall season is the second favorite time of year for vacationers visiting our resort island. The school year starts up again and the summer crowds start to thin; but the beautiful weather and outdoor fun continues with major events and festivals every weekend in the Wildwoods,” he added.
As a result of the ‘Fall in Love with the Wildwoods’ campaign, GWTIDA reported an increase of 28% in Tourism Tax Revenue over the same period in 2017. This represents an increase of $169,159.34 and an overall increase in lodging and visitor spending activity of $8,457,967.
The campaign stressed that the Wildwoods’ fall season is the perfect opportunity for vacationers who are looking to extend their vacation enjoyment with the pristine weather, outdoor activities and fun-filled events and festivals that take place into November.
In the fall, the Wildwoods’ unique restaurants and eateries, as well as popular breweries and distilleries, embrace the change of season by offering autumn flavored fresh farm-to-table creations. Only in the Wildwoods can you sip on a seasonal brew while savoring the fresh catch of the day in the mild autumn air.
The campaign also pointed out that you can savor the flavors of fall; reap priceless memories with loved ones; enjoy a serene escape or a thrilling adventure. Whatever you choose to do, you can do it in the Wildwoods!
The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA) consolidates the tourism economy of its three municipalities, serving as the umbrella destination marketing organization for the Borough of Wildwood Crest, the City of Wildwood, and the City of North Wildwood (collectively known as “the Wildwoods”). GWTIDA also serves as the operations and marketing arm of the Wildwoods Convention Center on behalf of the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, owners of the Convention Center. GWTIDA acts as the Island’s destination management organization (DMO), overseeing the integrated process of product development, research and planning, marketing, advertising, promotions, and public relations. Additionally, GWTIDA funds and assists special events within the island to enhance the visitor experience and extend the tourist season. The International Kite Festival, National Marbles Tournament, ‘The Race of Gentlemen’ Vintage Car & Motorcycle Beach Drag Races, two Boardwalk Classic Car Shows, Irish and Italian Festivals are just some of the more than 160 events the Wildwoods host each year, with funding from GWTIDA.
NJTIA advocates for enhanced government support for tourism in the state by educating elected and appointed officials on the industry, its economic benefit to the state and the role that those employed by and for the industry add to the quality of life for every citizen of NJ. The Tourism Excellence Awards recognize the accomplishments of those who achieve true excellence in providing an exceptional experience that enhances tourism across New Jersey.
For more information on the NJTIA, please visit www.njtia.org. For more information about the Wildwoods, visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com or call 800-992-9732.
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