RENO, Nev. (September 24, 2021) – During a regular meeting yesterday, the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA) Board of Directors welcomed Brand USA President and CEO Chris Thompson.
“My last family vacation before the pandemic was a ski trip to Reno Tahoe, and I’m so happy to back. I appreciate the opportunity to update your board of directors on international travel and Brand USA’s recovery plans,” said Thompson. “The news we heard this week of border re-openings this November will allow Brand USA to move from a state of readiness to implementation of our robust recovery strategy. We know, given the pandemic, outdoor travel is in demand among travelers and Reno Tahoe is perfectly positioned to capitalize on this trend.”
Brand USA works in close partnership with the travel industry to maximize the economic and social benefits of travel. These benefits include fostering understanding between people and cultures and creating jobs essential to the economy. According to Oxford Economics, over the past eight years, Brand USA’s marketing initiatives have helped welcome 7.7 million incremental visitors to the USA, benefiting the U.S. economy with $56 billion in total economic impact, and supporting an average of 45,000 incremental jobs per year.
“Brand USA’s support and interest is indicative of Reno Tahoe’s growing relevance throughout the broader U.S. tourism industry, as evidenced by the resilience of the businesses and individuals who’ve worked together to keep our region afloat over these last 18 months,” said RSCVA President and CEO Charles Harris. “Tourism will always be a driving factor in the Northern Nevada economy, and recent, positive growth is an encouraging sign for Reno Tahoe’s future as a domestic and international travel destination.”
Mr. Thompson’s visit to Reno Tahoe closes the loop for this calendar year, as it relates to America’s esteemed triumvirate of tourism. U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Roger Dow virtually attended the Board’s January meeting, and Destinations International President and CEO & Foundation Executive Director Don Welsh addressed the RSCVA Board of Directors in-person during its regular July meeting.
“Over the past year, Reno Tahoe has done a phenomenal job nurturing relationships with America’s top tourism organizations. We’re grateful for their time and expertise, as well as their tireless efforts to ensure that our industry and our destination continue moving in a positive direction,” said RSCVA Board Chair Bob Lucey.
*From Left to Right: City of Sparks Councilwoman Charlene Bybee, Brand USA President and Chris Thompson, Washoe County Commission and RSCVA Board Chair Bob Lucey, and RSCVA President and CEO Charles Harris