Thanks to our Partners!

With Thanksgiving nearly upon us, I wanted to take this opportunity to do something a little different. Most weeks, this column aims to provide insights on the hospitality industry, as well as events and topics that may impact you and your business. Today, I simply want to say “Thank you.”

A beautiful city skyline at dusk, glowing buildings and a scenic bridge reflected in the calm river, inviting exploration.

Thank you for partnering with Meet Minneapolis and for your continued interest in making Minneapolis a vibrant and welcoming city. Your commitment to investing in our community and local economy is why Minneapolis continues to garner accolades.

At the end of October, The Wall Street Journal published its list of “Where to Travel in 2018” and Minneapolis was the only U.S. destination included (ranked #4). Very recently, Resonance ranked the world’s best cities “using a combination of statistical performance and qualitative evaluations by locals and visitors in 23 areas grouped into six core categories.” Minneapolis ranked #47 overall - just behind Brisbane, Australia, and ahead of Vienna, Austria. In addition, we ranked in the Top 15, in the “Prosperity” category.

I call these out, because they don’t just happen. It takes thoughtful, strategic planning from individual businesses, city government, business and visitors associations like the Minneapolis Downtown Council and Meet Minneapolis, as well as countless individuals doing their part to ensure our city is a world-class destination where people can live, work, play and visit.

Earlier this year, at Meet Minneapolis’ Annual Meeting we outlined our city’s first-ever tourism master plan, called Destination Transformation 2030. I’m grateful for the support this plan has received. Eight key initiatives are outlined including attracting 50 million visitors annually and increasing the number of hospitality industry jobs to 40,000.

With major events on the horizon, like Super Bowl LII, the X Games, WNBA All Star Game, NCAA Volleyball Championships, NCAA Final Four, and many other meetings and conventions, we are well on our way. The positive economic impact of major conferences and sporting events can help lift everyone up in our city. As the saying goes, “a rising tide lifts all boats.”

So, again, I want to say thank you for the important part you and your business play through your engagement, support and enthusiasm for what Minneapolis has to offer to your employees, guests and clients.

I hope you have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving!