You're First With Us!
Our Members Are Recommended FIRST To Potential Customers.
The CVB markets and promotes Washington County, and your business or
organization. Millions of people are exposed to our county's amenities,
attractions, and businesses, because of the CVB's web, print, and broadcast
marketing. Since the privatization of the CVB in 1997, its budget has
grown from approximately $400,000 to more than $770,000 annually. As
directed by the Board of Directors, about 70% of all funds are spent
directly on operations, advertising, marketing programs and publications.
Only 30% of the total budget is spent on employee and related administrative
costs.
Over the past several years, Washington County has experienced record
growth in travel.
- Visitor expenditures have increased from
$127 million in FY 1996 to a projected $250 million in
FY 2007
- Accommodations occupancy rates have increased nearly 10%
- Lodging
tax collections have increased nearly 25%
- Visitations to
county attractions have risen nearly 10%
- Washington County
ranks among the top destinations in Maryland
The economic impact of these numbers affects each and every person in
Washington County. For businesses, this increase in visitors translates
into more customers for gasoline, food, souvenirs, services, clothing
and more. For you and your family, this increased spending represents
lower local and state taxes, expanded recreational, retail and scenic
opportunities..
WHO CAN BE A MEMBER?
Because the impact and circulation of travel expenditures is so broad,
virtually every business in Washington County should consider membership
in the CVB. Whether your company is wholesale or retail, services or
durable goods, you deal with a travel related business, company or organization.
WE'RE PROUD TO BE A MEMBER
"Motorcoach operators tell us that we have become a great place
for busses to stop. It has been exciting watching our Food Court sales
increase each year. Thanks to the CVB staff for the extra exposure!".
- Julie Rohm, Valley Mall General Manager
"It's a great idea to be a member of the CVB no matter what your
business specialty is."
- Sara Ardinger, Owner, The Plum
We have benefited from the exposure of the CVB and the resources made
available to us by being a member."
- Jayne Angle, Family Recreation Center.
