February 2009

Best Practices

Tourism as an Economic Development Tool -
Focus on Palm Springs, California

There is no denying that tourism is a major global economic force. Tourism as an Economic Development ToolApproximately 740 billion dollars are spent each year in tourism in the United States from both domestic and international travelers. As of 2004, the tourism industry accounted for 7.3 million jobs. Contributors to the tourism sector include the arts, food and wine, festivals and events, heritage and the environment. As economic development and tourism are a natural fit for one another, an alliance is often formed between the two divisions. Benefits from this alliance are often co-op advertising while marketing and public relations efforts share the same voice.

One strategy that has helped some retailers is the targeting of tourist dollars, as shopping and tourism often go hand in hand. Successful retailing in many small and rural communities is often rooted in the growth of innovative businesses that serve both local residents and visitors.

In this article, you will learn how the tourism industry affects Palm Springs, California and some of their strategies.

Hollywood's Hideaway
Attributes making Palm Springs, California such a big tourist draw each year include the year-round sunny and clear weather, a stunning natural mountain backdrop and its proximity to L.A., Orange County and San Diego. Known as “Hollywood’s Hideaway”, Palm Springs is now being transformed with the Mid-Century architecture and growing collection of vintage boutique home goods shops into a retro, yet hip, chic feel.

“Everything a visitor might want to do is very close together,” said Mary Jo Ginther, director of tourism for the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, “In fact, most of it one can walk. From the hotel to the restaurants and shops, it is a five minute drive into the pristine trails of the Indian Canyons, and a five minute drive in the other direction to the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway. Palm Springs has a relaxing and rejuvenating desert oasis, and wonderful spa experiences, particularly in our hotels.”

Read more on Tourism as an Economic Development Tool

Resources

Buxton Webcasts


Buxton will be hosting a webcast on March 11, titled “How Buxton Can Make Sure You Get The Most out of ICSC Las Vegas”. During this webcast you gain an understanding of the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and the tools and techniques to have a successful show this May.
Click here to register for the webcast.

This week we hosted a webcast titled “Attracting Retail To Underserved Markets.” If you missed this webcast, you will find it archived on Buxton's website.

Buxton Webcast: How Buxton Can Make Sure You Get the Most out of ICSC Las Vegas
March 11, 2009
10:30 am CST
Click Here to Register

2009 CRA Annual Conference & EXPO
April 1-3, 2009
Meet us at Booth 403
Set up a Meeting at CRA

 

 
 

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Is Your Community at a Crossroads?

As a kid growing up in southeastern Oklahoma, Crossroads Mall was our first stop for shopping when visiting the “Big City”. Before visiting Crossroads, I had never seen a “Food Court” or experienced an Orange Julius. At the time, Crossroads was anchored by Sears and Montgomery Ward and had eclectic stores like Spencer’s along with a large arcade with bumper cars and Skee-Ball. During my college years, continued to thrive with solid anchors like Sanger-Harris and Dillards.

My, how things have changed - http://www.newsok.com/oklahoma-city-mall-at-a-crossroads/ article/3340103%20?custom_click=lead_story_title – this article will give you a feel for what is not taking place with the mall.

Click here to Read More

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