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Discussion Regarding the Development of a Tourism Brand and Related Request for Proposal.
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Meeting Date: October 9, 2024
Contact Person/Dept: Elizabeth Garcia, Economic and Cultural Development
Elaine Warner, Economic and Cultural Development
Phone Number: (310) 253-5708
(310) 253-5777
Fiscal Impact: Yes [] No [X] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [x] Attachments: []
Public Notification: GovDelivery (10/7/2024)
Department Approval: Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager (10/03/2024)
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Background/Discussion
Over the past 10 years, Economic Development has engaged industry clusters to understand current trends and assist with specific business issues and challenges. Since 2018, the stakeholders of the hospitality cluster have continuously requested a unified marketing strategy to attract visitors and increase tourism in Culver City. Additionally, the Economic Recovery Task Force also recommended that Culver City begin to develop tourism assets to support retail, restaurant and hospitality businesses and position Culver City as a regional and national destination.
As part of the FY 24-25 work plan, and in anticipation of national and international sporting events slated for 2026, staff has prioritized the creation of a unified, unique tourism identity. Staff is working with Information Technology on the development a dedicated website and has engaged hospitality stakeholders regarding the development of a scope of work for brand/marketing consultants with expertise in destination marketing.
The Scope of Work would include the following:
• Conducting interviews with City stakeholders including hotels, entertainment companies, restaurants + retail, cultural institutions (1-2 cluster meetings).
• Presenting two-three alternatives for brand identity assets including logo (tagline/digital assets).
• Developing a style guide for fonts/typography, color palette and guidelines for brand identity.
• Creating Digital assets for website design and advertising
• Creating maps and other visual components for interative website
• Developing a comprehensive street banner program highlighting Culver City as a destination
The brand components would also be utilized toward the development of the tourism website which could feature the following elements:
o Calendar of events
o Curated, interactive map
o Directory of restaurants, retail and entertainment including local spotlights, historical/art/architectural tours, galleries, and theaters
o Directory of hotels, motels and other hospitality options.
Pursuant to Subcommittee direction and additional recommendations, staff anticipates issuing an informal Request for Proposal in late October/early November 2024.