Atlantic City, NJ – The New Jersey Tourism Industry Association (NJTIA) honored the state’s top tourism leaders at the Excellence in Tourism Awards, held during a luncheon at the Golden Nugget Casino in Atlantic City on December 11 and 12. More than 340 tourism industry professionals and students gathered to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and excellence in New Jersey’s thriving tourism sector.
NJTIA Chairman Adam Perle and NJTIA President Lori Pepenella presented awards across five categories, recognizing exceptional achievements that elevate New Jersey’s tourism industry.
2024 Excellence in Tourism Award Winners
Innovation: Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority
The Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority was recognized for its groundbreaking 2024 summer campaign that blended traditional truck advertising with cutting-edge digital technology. Using six branded 53-foot delivery trucks in the Metro Philadelphia and New York markets, the campaign collected data via device ID scanners, allowing retargeting of audiences with digital ads on Meta platforms.
The campaign achieved remarkable results, including nearly 900,000 people reached, over 1.2 million impressions, and a cost-per-impression nearly half that of stationary billboards. This creative approach reinforces the Wildwoods’ reputation as a leader in tourism innovation.
Public Relations: Caesars Atlantic City
Caesars Atlantic City was celebrated for its masterful public relations campaign spotlighting the resort’s $230+ million transformation. The campaign, featuring milestones like the debut of Nobu Restaurant and Hotel, Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen, and Spiegelworld’s The Hook, generated over 330 media placements and an astounding 4.6 billion impressions.
By hosting influencer events and securing features in prominent outlets like Forbes, Food & Wine, and Glamour, Caesars showcased its commitment to revitalizing Atlantic City as a world-class destination.
Partnerships: Hackettstown Business Improvement District (HBID)
The Town of Hackettstown and the Hackettstown Business Improvement District (HBID) earned the award for their collaborative Hackettstown New Year’s Eve Blast. The event drew national attention with its unique “lentil drop,” featuring a 40-inch, LED-lit red M&M, and welcomed over 14,000 visitors.
Through partnerships with organizations like Mars Wrigley, Centenary University, and local businesses, the event boosted economic growth, filled restaurants and shops, and showcased the community’s creativity and spirit.
Marketing: Masterpiece Advertising
Masterpiece Advertising, on behalf of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), was honored for their “The Original Cool” Summer 2024 campaign. The nostalgic campaign positioned Atlantic City as a premier summer destination, blending its storied history with a modern narrative.
Using TV, radio, digital ads, and out-of-home placements, the campaign delivered exceptional results, increasing visitation to Atlantic City while reinforcing its unique charm.
President’s Award: Morey’s Piers
The prestigious President’s Award was presented to Morey’s Piers, a beloved Wildwoods landmark. With its enduring commitment to excellence in family entertainment, Morey’s Piers has been a cornerstone of New Jersey’s tourism industry for generations.
“Today’s honorees represent the incredible innovation, collaboration, and creativity that drive New Jersey’s tourism industry,” said NJTIA Chairman Adam Perle. “Their efforts enrich visitor experiences, boost local economies, and shine a spotlight on the best New Jersey has to offer.”
The NJTIA Excellence in Tourism Awards celebrate the pivotal role tourism plays in the state’s economy while inspiring industry leaders to continue shaping New Jersey’s future as a premier travel destination.
For additional information about the New Jersey Tourism Association, visit www.NJTIA.org or call
609-396-2020