Richmond Region Tourism launching master plan initiative as visitor spending increases

As visitor spending continues to grow, Richmond Region Tourism is developing a master plan that will serve as a long-term roadmap for tourism in the region.

Richmond Region Tourism has hired Resonance Consultancy to develop the plan, which will create a strategic vision to address the Richmond area’s future as a world-class leisure, meetings and conventions, and sports destination.

Resonance Consultancy and Richmond Region Tourism will engage residents, businesses, public officials and tourism stakeholders over a year-long process. Richmond Region Tourism will leverage the recommendations as it works to attract leisure travelers and meetings, conventions, and tournaments to its partner localities, including the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico and Powhatan, the City of Richmond, and the town of Ashland.

Resonance Consultancy is a leading advisor in tourism, real estate and economic development for countries, cities, and communities. The firm was selected through a competitive RFP bidding process that included submissions from experts across the country.

“We’re looking forward to working with the talented team at Resonance Consultancy,” said Jack Berry, Richmond Region Tourism President & CEO. “Tourism continues to play a significant role in the success of the Richmond region. This process is an important and strategic investment that influences how Richmond Region Tourism and partners market the region moving forward.”

Officials from both groups will meet in Richmond in November to kick off the planning process.

“While the tourism master plan will address critical hardware, such as transportation and attractions, that are required to achieve Richmond Region Tourism’s goals, it will also address the software of relationships and programming required to foster the culture and experiences necessary to create a unique and compelling sense of place,” said Jim McCaul, Vice President of Destination Development at Resonance Consultancy. “We expect this effort to deliver important long-term change in how the Richmond Region develops, manages and markets its tourism destination, products, and services, as well as recommends improvements to the quality of life for the community and local residents.”