City of Benicia REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
RFP# 25-037
TOURISM MARKETING SERVICES
City of Benicia
250 East L Street Benicia
Benicia, CA 94510
RELEASE DATE: October 28, 2024
RESPONSE DEADLINE: December 2, 2024, 5:00 pm
RESPONSES MUST BE SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY TO:
https://secure.procurenow.com/portal/beniciaca
Proposal Submission Deadline December 2, 2024, 5:00pm
1. Introduction
1.1. Summary
The City of Benicia (“City”) is requesting proposals from qualified professionals/firms to provide tourism marketing services as part of the ongoing implementation of its adopted Strategic Tourism Marketing Plan (“Plan”). The Plan is available to view at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/ed .
The website, www.VisitBenicia.org, reinforces that brand and is intended to provide all necessary information for visitors to plan their visits to Benicia.
There will be an optional pre-submittal meeting to which all interested parties are invited, including members of the public. The meeting will be on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 1:30 P.M. – 2:30 P.M. via
Zoom. Please email cschow@ci.benicia.ca.us for the meeting link.
1.2. Background
Nestled in the heart of Northern California, the town of Benicia serves as an inviting destination that benefits from its strategic location. Positioned as the halfway point between Sacramento and San Francisco, as well as the East Bay and Napa, Benicia offers a convenient stop for travelers exploring the region. With its picturesque waterfront, rich history, vibrant arts scene, and a charming small-town atmosphere, Benicia welcomes visitors seeking a delightful respite and serves as a gateway to the diverse attractions and destinations that surround it.
1.3. Contact Information
Colette Schow
Economic Development Manager
250 East L Street
Benicia, CA 94510
Email: cschow@ci.benicia.ca.us
Phone: (707) 746-4202
Department:
Economic Development
Department Head:
Colette Schow
Economic Development Manager
3. Scope of Work
3.1. Marketing
1. Create a yearly marketing strategy based on the findings and goals from the Strategic Tourism Marketing Plan.
2. Develop an approach to brand advertising.
3. Measure and optimize advertising campaigns to ensure we reach desired target audiences.
4. Manage and create a strategy and content for Visit Benicia social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok to drive visitor traffic and promote local events.
5. Provide content for and manage www.VisitBenicia.org.
6. Publicity, including writing and distributing press releases, generating and placing feature stories with media outlets, outreach to local freelance writers, and tour operator outreach.
7. Review co-op and other opportunities with California Travel & Tourism Commission, and other tourism promotional opportunities, and make recommendations to Client and stakeholders.
Implement as directed.
8. Send monthly e-newsletter.
3.2. Client/Community/Public Liaison
A. Respond to routine Client requests within two business days.
B. Respond to community (Benicia citizens and groups) inquiries within two business days.
C. Assist in coordination of five “visitors centers” at existing tourist destinations – Chamber of Commerce, Benicia Main Street Visitor Center, Benicia Historical Museum (2 locations), and Arts Benicia gallery.
3.3. Strategic Planning Calendar
Help coordinate promotions throughout the year in a strategic manner for Visit Benicia and support local businesses and promotions.