WASHINGTON, DC — Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, has named Development Counsellors International (DCI) as its public relations agency of record in Canada.

Destination DC has a longstanding trade presence in Canada and will now engage for the first time in public relations efforts in this market, elevating the profile of Washington, DC as a top travel destination for Canadians.

DCI says work will focus on implementing innovative PR strategies and media relations to highlight the destination’s unique offerings and increase visitation from Canada.

Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO of Destination DC, says: “We are excited to announce our partnership with DCI as we intensify our efforts to attract Canadian visitors to Washington, DC. As we focus on growing international visitation because of the economic impact on the local economy, DCI’s expertise will be instrumental in promoting the unique attractions and cultural richness of Washington, DC, further enhancing our connection with Canadian travellers.”

Siobhan Chretien, Senior Director of DCI Canada, added: “It is an honour for DCI to be chosen as the PR agency of record for Destination DC in Canada. Washington, DC is a dynamic and captivating destination, and we are eager to share its stories with the Canadian market. Our team is dedicated to leveraging our expertise in tourism promotion to drive awareness and interest in the unparalleled experiences awaiting Canadian travellers in Washington, DC.”

Chretien notes that Brand USA data shows that 45% of Canadians are planning a trip to the U.S. in the next 12 months, representing a big opportunity to put Washington, DC front and centre with motivated Canadian travellers.

“Working with DCI marks a new chapter in our commitment to the Canadian market,” said Theresa Belpulsi, Senior VP, Tourism, Sports and Visitor Services at Destination DC. “Canada is the largest international market for visitation to the U.S., so there’s a great excitement in strengthening our ties with Canadian travellers. Building on our trade efforts in Canada, we are now excited to expand our outreach with tailored PR initiatives, aiming to share the unique experiences found only in Washington, DC.”