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The beginning
Ground Handlers -
DMC was coined in USA
Phil Lee (founder of California Leisure Consultants)
In the 1970s, many of these companies added custom parties and themed events, as well as spouse/guest programs, to their list
of services -
Coming of age (Economic Boom)
Destination management companies (DMCs) flourished, further expanding their role in the meeting, convention, and incentive travel industry. New DMCs were popping up everywhere, bringing fierce competition to many markets. -
Period: to
Recession
With it a couple of major shifts. More companies were competing for fewer dollars. Organizations were forced to cut their meeting (recreation) budgets. Other suppliers like hotels, decorators, and transportation companies began offering similar services. Some DMCs began traveling with clients from destination to destination. -
Consolidation
Offering changed the face of destination. Mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, rollups, cooperative marketing agreements, and even franchise offerings changed the face of destination management. -
Financial Crisis
GPD -10%
It was a “perfect storm” of economic, social and political scrutiny of corporate excess, namely travel and recognition events, leading to the sudden cancellation of thousands of meetings across the country. -
Globalization on the rise
21st century
Risk management and financial oversight.
DMC (global partner)