FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 24, 2008

WASHINGTON, DC'S OFFICIAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION TO CAPITALIZE ON NEW NAME

(Washington, DC)…The Washington, DC Convention & Tourism Corporation announced today that it is changing its name to a shorter and snappier phrase:  Destination DC.  The organization has had one of the longest names in the industry that has been used inconsistently. The new, shorter version of the name better reflects the way customers and travelers view the organization and will be easier to remember.

“We believe our new name is very clear,” said Dan Mesches, president of Star Restaurant Group and current chairman for Destination DC. “We exist to convince meeting planners, individual travelers and tour operators to choose DC as their next destination.” The private, non-profit organization has the support of more than 1,000 members throughout the region and generates economic development through tourism, a $5.24 billion industry for the District of Columbia. Bill Hanbury, president & CEO of Destination DC and current chairman of Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) added, “Other marketing organizations for major cities have made similar name transitions successfully, including Visit London, NYC & Company and LA Inc.”
 
The announcement by the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital was made just a week before it unveils a new brand strategy to market the city. Mayor Adrian Fenty will join Destination DC leaders on April 2 to unveil the integrated campaign designed to invite travelers near and far to experience the city in powerful and exciting new ways.