So how do they plan to do it? Based on the first glimpses we're
getting of the CTP's strategy, it appears they are leaning heavily
on creating content, such as this website that
houses travel itineraries for different U.S. cities.
The site also links to several partners in the effort, among
them: federal agencies related to tourism, such as the National
Park Service and the Federal Highway Administration National Scenic
Byways Program, transportation companies like rental cars and
buses, and travel agencies and tour operators. Another major part
of its push so far appears to be social media, with the CTP
creating fan pages on Facebook for different cities.
Of course, it's going to take a lot more than a few day-trip
suggestions and "likes" on Facebook to get tourists and business
executives from around the world flocking to our shores --
especially at a time when the nation's government and its values
are seeing heightened criticism. Pew Studies in recent years have
shown America's image declining not just in parts of the world
where anti-Americanism runs rampant, such as the Middle East, but
also in Latin America and in Europe. And you could say that in
light of movements such as Occupy Wall Street , the country's image
problem isn't just abroad but in its own backyard too.
It remains to be seen how the CTP will try to repair its image
with the forthcoming global marketing campaign, which is being
shepherded by the group's CEO Jim Evans and CMO Chris Perkins, who
spent 25 years in the advertising agency business. The non-profit
group -- which has secured an enviable marketing budget of $200
million -- is planning to launch a worldwide push in March, which
it calls "the first-ever coordinated global marketing effort
dedicated to welcoming international travelers to the United
States."
"What is so compelling about the United States is that no one
thing can explain who we are as a nation. Each visitor and each
experience helps create the fabric of American culture, and Brand
USA embodies this spirit," said Mr. Perkins in a statement. "When
we launch our global marketing and advertising campaign next year,
we will be able to reach audiences around the world by showcasing
the best of America and spreading the message that we welcome
visitors with open arms."