Visit SLO CAL’s hosted event aimed to reinforce the SLO CAL identity among locals and celebrate the region’s diverse culture.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY – Visit SLO CAL, the official destination marketing and management organization for San Luis Obispo County (SLO CAL), hosted a successful and sold-out SLO CAL Summit 2023 on Thursday, October 5, 2023. The prestigious event unfolded at The Embassy Suites by Hilton in San Luis Obispo.
SLO CAL Summit 2023, themed “The Power and Prosperity of a Tourism Brand” brought together over 200 industry leaders, innovators, visionaries and stakeholders from across the tourism spectrum. This annual event served as a dynamic platform for insightful discussions, including a destination update from Chuck Davison, Visit SLO CAL’s President and CEO, networking opportunities and a celebration of the enduring spirit of the travel and tourism sector.
“In the land of SLO CAL, we’re brought together by the wonderful people, the relaxed pace of life and the breathtaking surroundings that make this place so special,” said Chuck Davison, President & CEO of Visit SLO CAL. “Our region boasts not only stunning landscapes but also the warmest of locals and countless unexpected adventures waiting to be discovered. The true power of our region lies in our tight-knit community, always pushing us forward with their incredible SLO CAL spirit. It’s this vibrant energy that propels us toward new horizons and we can invite everyone to join us in building upon the SLO CAL brand, both at home and beyond.”
Key Highlights of SLO CAL Summit 2023:
- State of SLO CAL Welcome Address: Chuck Davison, President and CEO of Visit SLO CAL presented a welcome address, sharing insights about the industry’s remarkable resilience and its ongoing growth in a post-pandemic world. Davison emphasized the significance of uniting participants from across the region under the unifying banner of SLO CAL. He also expressed the collective excitement about referring to the San Luis Obispo County region as ‘SLO CAL,’ proudly positioning it as the center of the central coast.
- Keynote Speaker: Following the welcome address, Michael Dominguez, President and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), delivered an inspiring speech on “The Value of a Strong Destination Brand,” discussing how a robust brand identity and data-driven strategies can significantly influence a business’ profitability.
- Panel Discussions: Two engaging panel discussions led by Visit SLO CAL’s Chief Marketing Officer, Cathy Cartier and Visit SLO CAL’s Chief Executive Officer Chuck Davison explored themes including “What Sets Us Apart” and “Issues Facing our Community.” Panelists included Tammy Haughey, The Shipyard; Nick Evans, Pensara; Joel Peterson, Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance; Michael Dominguez, ALHI; Barb Newton, CalTravel; and Ryan Becker, Visit California. These discussions delved into sustainable tourism practices, digital marketing strategies and the importance of collaboration within the sector, offering valuable insights into emerging opportunities.
- Networking Reception: Attendees enjoyed extensive networking opportunities, fostering meaningful connections and partnerships vital for the industry’s growth. The event featured a SLO CAL Crafted pop-up with eight vendors showcasing local artisanal goods and products from farmers, crafters and artisans.
SLO CAL Summit 2023 was a testament to the industry’s determination, resilience and innovation and Visit SLO CAL continued its commitment to showcasing SLO CAL as a vibrant layer of communities, including Arroyo Grande and Atascadero, long-standing ranching families and winegrowers in Paso Robles Wine Country and the SLO Coast Wine Region, the lively college town atmosphere of San Luis Obispo, and communities along Highway 1 including Avila Beach, Cayucos and Grover Beach.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
