Black Meetings and Tourism

INCENTIVE TRAVEL? YES WE CAN! I N C E N T I V E I N S I G H T BY MATT THOMAS I t's hard to see the glass as half full when every major industry is experiencing an economic downturn. Jobs are disappear- ing, consumer spending is down, and corpora- tions are cutting back on elaborate events and meetings. But there is a sunnier side. Hope and the rally call for change have come to America. While we struggle under the weight of an economic crisis, President Obama is implementing change. We are proceeding cautiously through critical times. The need for incentive travel and merchandise programs is more critical than ever. Motivating a depressed workforce, energizing a battered sales team, or rewarding customer loyalty can be achieved with a thoughtfully planned, value-based incentive pro- gram. Incentive travel and merchandise rewards have long been effective tools for energizing a workforce during diffi- cult times. In these turbulent times, the incentive travel market must provide significant value given corporate budget con- straints. A myriad of industry studies have shown that per- formance and employee loyalty increase when incentive travel and merchandise awards are offered. A reduction in incentive awards can often translate into a reduction in workforce productivity. While it may seem counter pro- ductive to spend money on employees when jobs are being cut, it should instead be viewed as a necessary investment. For some, spending on incentive travel seems frivolous in light of today's economy. For others, an incentive award is a beacon of hope their company can survive the crisis. It is the fuel that fires them up for greater productivity over the long haul. Leaner budgets don't mean lesser value. By reducing or eliminating expenses for such items as theme parties, pre- and post- receptions, or elaborate gala dinners, incentive programs can work. Instead of hotel banquets, make reservations at a local restaurant and eliminate the cost of decorations, and special equipment rentals. The food and beverage charges will be comparable. Reduce printing cost with 2-color rather than 4-color collateral materials. Employees and customers understand these are tough times. No one will fault you for foregoing the fancy 4-color brochure for a 2-color newsletter. Hotels are feeling the economic pinch as well. Many hotels are supporting meeting planners with cost-saving measures that will help the planners' budgets. So what destina- tions offer you the best value for your dollar and cost-saving deals? Well you don't have to go far from home to find one great destination – Arizona. AZA Events, a destination specialist in Arizona, and Encore Creative, an event and entertainment production company, in the "Valley of the Sun," help create and imple- ment timely and cost-effective programs. They understand budget challenges and help create incentive and corporate programs that not only save money but add value to your program. Instead of the traditional gala dinner, for exam- ple, enjoy a Sedona experience with a great lunch at Heartline Café and an unforgettable Jeep Tour. These activities increase camaraderie, support local business and offer a unique group experience for less per person than a gala event. There is also a great selection of hotels and resorts, all prepared to work with reduced budgets and planning restrictions. The InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa, which opened in 2008, is inspired by Spain's Andalusia region. The Montelucia is more a community than resort and can accommodate the needs of large groups. Prior to its opening the Montelucia offered dis- counted room rates and convention services as did many other hotels in the Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale region. The Valley Ho, a monument to 1956 Hollywood area is retro-chic, with floor to ceiling glass conference rooms, Trader Vic's restaurant and a willingness to work with planners to give the best value for your budget. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is serviced by every major airline. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible to Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale venues. As an affordable destination, Arizona can't be beat. Please feel free to direct any of your incentive travel questions or comments to Matt Thomas, MICE Editor for BM&T: matt@bmtmag.com. Black Meetings & Tourism February/March 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 50

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