East Point Convention Bureau unveils tourism strategy and research initiative for economic growth

In the heart of East Point, Georgia, city officials gathered at a recent work session to discuss the future of tourism in the area, a vital economic driver for the community. The meeting, held on April 14, 2025, featured a presentation from the East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), which highlighted the importance of a comprehensive tourism needs assessment aimed at enhancing the city’s appeal to visitors.

Shantel Francois, the executive director of the CVB, opened the session by emphasizing the competitive nature of tourism. "Every community must compete for its share of the world's attention," she stated, underscoring the necessity of effective branding and marketing to attract travelers. The CVB has engaged the Mandela Research Firm to conduct a detailed study to better understand the preferences and spending habits of potential visitors to East Point.

Laura Mandela, representing the research firm, outlined a multi-faceted approach to the assessment. This includes surveys targeting travelers, meeting planners, and tour operators to gather insights on what draws visitors to East Point and what barriers might prevent them from choosing the city as a destination. The goal is to identify strategies that can increase overnight stays and overall tourism spending, which currently stands at $46 billion statewide.

The discussion also touched on the importance of community engagement. The CVB plans to hold roundtable discussions with local stakeholders, including residents and business owners, to gather input on how tourism can enhance quality of life in East Point. "Understanding what the community values is vital," Mandela noted, as the CVB seeks to align its initiatives with local interests.

In addition to the needs assessment, the CVB showcased its recent efforts to promote East Point as a vibrant destination. Initiatives included participation in community events, the successful launch of the East Point Peachtree International Film Festival, and partnerships with local businesses to enhance the city’s cultural offerings. Safety was also highlighted as a key concern for attracting visitors, with the CVB collaborating with local law enforcement to ensure a secure environment for tourists.

As the meeting concluded, Francois called for collaboration with the city council to prepare for upcoming events, including the FIFA World Cup, which is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region. "We want to ensure East Point is ready to capitalize on this opportunity," she urged, signaling a proactive approach to tourism development.

The work session not only outlined the CVB's strategic plans but also reinforced the notion that tourism is a shared responsibility, one that can uplift the entire community through increased engagement and economic growth. As East Point positions itself as a premier destination, the commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for visitors remains at the forefront of its agenda.