Wilmington Downtown Inc. Downtown Economic Development Luncheon

Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI) invites you to attend our Economic Development Luncheon on Wednesday, November 20 for an insightful event that will explore how hospitality and placemaking drive economic vitality in Wilmington’s Central Business District.

WDI will unveil the findings of its Economic Impact Study for Wilmington’s Hospitality Development Initiatives, followed by a panel discussion featuring prominent leaders in the hospitality industry.

This comprehensive two-part study is being conducted by Chicago-based HVS, a global consulting and services organization that specializes in the hotel, restaurant, shared services, gaming, and leisure industries.

The first component of the study evaluates the economic impacts of three key Wilmington venues: Wilmington Convention Center, Live Oak Bank Pavilion, and Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. The second component includes a hotel needs assessment and a feasibility study for a potential new development site.

A distinguished panel of hotel developers and leaders in tourism will discuss the crucial role of hospitality in shaping downtown Wilmington’s future. Our panelists include:

• Zachary Brigman, General Manager of Embassy Suites, which came into the downtown market following the development of the Wilmington Convention Center
• Jonah Dicker, Principal with ARRIVE Hotels, which plans to expand its downtown location
• A representative with a development group planning a new 300-plus room hotel downtown
• Kim Hufham, President and CEO of the Wilmington and Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau

The event will conclude with a brief Q&A session. A buffet lunch will be provided.

Get your early-bird table purchase at 10% off now until November 1!

Date & Time: November 20, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Location: Wilmington Convention Center

Address: 10 Convention Center Dr. Wilmington, NC 28401

Host or Publisher Wilmington Downtown, Inc. (WDI)