Skift Take
Going for organic growth by tapping into already thriving sectors and industries at a community level, and aligning with government projects, are just two ways cities can plan better events and speed up their economic recovery.
Destinations are still hurting from the loss of inbound tourism, but spare a thought for those cities particularly impacted by being unable to host conventions, conferences and other large scale events.
While the tourist’s discretionary spending will be missed, two destination experts have warned how a host of more intangible benefits are being lost, which range from events' potential to attract overseas talent, to supporting a wide range of local jobs.
Meeting planners will now play a critical role helping those cities recover.
Identifying the Long-Tail Effects
So what's at stake exactly?
In Toronto, Canada, the knock-on effect is being felt across the board, according to the president and CEO of Destination Toronto.
"The absence of the visitor has been noticed. In urban destinations, tourism is not necessarily well recognized," said Scott Beck, speaking at the Skift Live Destinations and Sustainability Summit on Wednesday.
[caption id="attachment_436316" align="a
