The Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism has strategically partnered with Premier League’s Crystal Palace FC as their official destination partner. This collaboration is set to enhance Illinois’ visibility in the UK market.
Crystal Palace’s visit to Chicago in 2023 established vital ties, and their return this summer solidified a connection that this partnership aims to deepen, promoting Illinois to an international audience.
The partnership with Crystal Palace is anticipated to significantly boost Illinois’ global tourism profile. By featuring ‘Enjoy Illinois’ branding on prominent platforms such as LED boards, interview backdrops, and in-stadium TVs at Selhurst Park, Illinois extends its reach to a global audience. This strategic move aims to captivate the attention of football fans worldwide, showcasing Illinois as a top-tier travel destination.
This initiative not only fuels fan excitement but also leverages the emotional connection fans have with their team to draw attention to Illinois’ diverse attractions.
Through continuous exposure during major matches, the state’s unique offerings, from vibrant city life in Chicago to quaint small-town charm, are positioned as attractive prospects for tourists.
The collaboration is not only about market expansion but also about nurturing existing relationships between the club and its fans in Illinois. This deepens the club’s connection with the US market.
The collaboration showcases Illinois’ ambition to be recognized as a destination that offers more than just sports, promoting its eclectic mix of city excitement, historical routes, and scenic beauty.
The strategic use of promotions is designed to sustain interest in Illinois, encouraging deeper engagement from Crystal Palace fans.
The partnership between Enjoy Illinois and Crystal Palace sets the stage for future opportunities to expand Illinois’ tourism reach further into Europe.
The partnership between Enjoy Illinois and Crystal Palace FC marks a significant step in promoting Illinois as a prime tourist destination. As this relationship grows, it promises to deliver exciting opportunities and heightened visibility for Illinois on the international stage.