Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Destinations International Demonstrates How Destination Collaboration Enhances Event Reputation, Sustainability, and Engagement: Know More Published on
October 7, 2025Destinations International, the premier global authority for destination organisations, is set to unveil the findings from three pivotal studies during a press conference at IMEX America on Wednesday, October 8, from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. PDT. The session will spotlight insights from the 2025 DestinationNEXT Futures Study, the Destination Reputation Study, and the newly released Destination Guide to Food Recovery and Redistribution at Events.Backed by the Destinations International Foundation, these studies illustrate a fundamental transformation in the role of destination organisations. No longer solely focused on logistics and event facilitation, these organisations are emerging as strategic partners for meeting and event planners. The DestinationNEXT Futures Study identifies eight critical themes shaping the future of destination leadership, highlighting a significant industry shift: 84% of destination organisations are actively involved in destination development, positioning collaboration with local communities as a central function of their work.Advertisement The Destination Reputation Study reinforces the increasing importance of perception and trust in attracting attendees. Beyond traditional concerns of safety and political stability, planners now weigh factors such as transparency, sustainability, and community impact when selecting event locations. This underscores a growing expectation that destinations align with the values and priorities of modern attendees.For event planners, this evolution carries tangible implications. Success is no longer measured solely by available hotel rooms or venue capacity; the focus is expanding to include safety, inclusivity, cultural authenticity, and measurable community contributions. Collaborating with a destination organisation equips planners with critical local knowledge, access to civic and business leaders, and the ability to embed initiatives such as sustainability programs, community engagement, and food recovery strategies directly into event planning.AdvertisementIllustrating this practical shift, Destinations International’s Destination Guide to Food Recovery and Redistribution at Events provides actionable strategies for tackling food waste, which accounts for roughly 40% of event-generated food. The guide offers frameworks for redirecting surplus food to local communities, fostering partnerships with nonprofits, venues, and service providers, and building long-term social impact into events. These efforts not only improve community well-being but also enhance a destination’s image as a responsible and forward-thinking host.Destinations International emphasizes that destinations now function as active partners in shaping meaningful outcomes for attendees, communities, and planners alike. By aligning event goals with local expertise, destination organisations help create resilient, engaging, and impactful events that leave a lasting impression and …
