At the recent McKinney government meeting, the spotlight was on strategic marketing efforts aimed at attracting decision-makers to the city. The discussion highlighted the importance of attending various trade shows, including industry-specific events for sports and associations, to showcase McKinney as a prime destination for events and tourism.

Marie, a remote employee representing McKinney, emphasized the value of one-on-one appointments at these shows, stating, "We want to spend time with these people as well as we can." The goal is to engage directly with decision-makers, allowing them to express their needs and preferences, which can lead to successful partnerships.

The team is particularly excited about upcoming events like the Sports Invitational, which McKinney will host in 2026. This event will bring professional event planners to the city, providing an opportunity to showcase local sporting venues and potentially secure future bookings. Marie noted, "We hope they will want to book with us after that," underscoring the importance of these interactions.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the significance of consumer trade shows, such as home and garden or travel expos, which can generate local business and sales tax revenue. The team is committed to maximizing their presence at these events, continuously evaluating which shows yield the best return on investment.

In closing, the meeting reinforced McKinney's proactive approach to tourism and event marketing, with plans to adapt and innovate based on feedback and industry trends. The collaborative efforts of the team, including creative strategies like hosting dinners for event planners, are set to position McKinney as a competitive player in the event hosting arena.