Tourism in Pinellas County is gearing up for a vibrant season, with the Tourist Development Council highlighting exciting developments at their recent meeting. A key focus was the launch of the "727 Society," a local influencer program designed to amplify the voices of community content creators and promote the area's attractions.
Jessica Morrow, the marketing project manager at Visit St. Pete Clearwater, introduced the initiative, which aims to engage local influencers to showcase events and experiences throughout the region. "We want the folks that live here to be our advocates," Morrow stated, emphasizing the importance of local perspectives in attracting visitors.
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Subscribe for Free The program has already seen significant engagement, with 15 creators actively participating and generating impressive metrics. Since its soft launch in December, influencers have created 89 posts, reaching approximately 181,000 people and generating an estimated $199,000 in earned media value. Morrow expressed excitement about the program's potential, stating, "We really want to tap into our community and extend the Visit St. Pete Clearwater story."
In addition to influencer engagement, the council discussed the importance of attracting journalists to the area. Over 40 journalists are scheduled to visit Pinellas County between February and May, providing an opportunity to showcase the region's recovery and vibrant tourism offerings post-hurricane.
The meeting also touched on the accessibility of the area for travelers, with Tampa International Airport and St. Pete Clearwater International Airport providing convenient access for visitors. The council is optimistic that these efforts will bolster tourism and highlight the unique experiences available in Pinellas County.
As the season progresses, the council is committed to leveraging local influencers and media to enhance the visibility of the destination, ensuring that Pinellas County remains a top choice for travelers. For more information on events and attractions, visitors are encouraged to check out visitspc.com.