ANNUAL REPORT

2018

CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 1 2 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 1 OUR AWARD-WINNING HOME

THE 21 MOST INFLUENTIAL CITIES IN THE WORLD Business Insider, June 2018

WORLD'S BEST CITY FOR HAVING IT ALL READER'S CHOICE AWARDS: Time Out, January 2018 BEST BIG CITY IN THE U.S. Conde Nast Traveler, October 2017 & 2018 IT WAS A GREAT YEAR FOR . OUR CITY WAS RECOGNIZED FOR ITS OUTSTANDING CULINARY COMMUNITY, THRIVING CRAFT BEER SCENE

TOP METRO AREA FOR CORPORATE AND FOR BEING ONE OF THE ALL-AROUND BEST RELOCATION AND INVESTMENT Site Selection, Five Consecutive Years PLACES IN THE COUNTRY.

DESTINATIONS WITH EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM: MICHELIN STARS AWARDED TO BEST TOURISM MARKETING 25 CHICAGO RESTAURANTS Office of Tourism Honors, 2018 Michelin

HOME TO THE MOST BREWERIES IN THE U.S. The Brewers Association, 2018

CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 8 11 LETTER FROM 2018 ECONOMIC THE CHAIR OPERATIONS IMPACT & CEO

12 15 16 VISITATION HOTEL MEETINGS & SNAPSHOT CONVENTIONS

18 21 22 RECORD- STRATEGIC CULINARY BREAKING PARTNERS EVENTS PARTNERSHIPS

25 26 28 UNION CLIENT MARKETING PARTNERS SERVICES

32 36 37 MEDIA SPECIAL PUBLIC RELATIONS EVENTS POLICY

38 40 42 CULTURAL GLOBAL CHICAGO TOURISM DEVELOPMENT SPORTS COMMISSION

46 47 BOARD OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS STAFF

4 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 5 LETTER FROM THE CHAIR & CEO

The year resulted in many historic Attracting more international visitors to milestones. Chicago welcomed a record Chicago remains a priority. There was a 57.7 million visitors, an increase of 4.3% 3.8% increase in passport holders arriving from 2017. This growth resulted in a 4.4% on non-stop international flights at O’Hare increase in overall hotel room demand and Midway airports, reversing a negative and an encouraging 4.6% growth in trend in arrivals over the past several years. average daily rate for our hotel partners. Our accomplishments are due in large For the second year in a row, Chicago part to the tremendous support and was selected as the best big city in the cooperation we receive from the State United States by the readers of Condé of Illinois, the City of Chicago, including Nast Traveler. This type of significant the Department of Cultural Affairs buzz increased engagement with our and Special Events and the Chicago digital and social media platforms and Department of Aviation, the Metropolitan generated publicity around the globe. Pier and Exhibition Authority and dozens of corporate sponsors celebrated within The economic impact of our industry this report. These include the Chicago and our partners is vivid. Overall tourism Federation of Labor and our union partners expenditures exceeded $16 billion, focused on serving our customers, clients including almost $1.1 billion in tourism and guests. tax revenue. Hotel tax revenues alone generated $437 million. And finally, we appreciate the support from our 1,552 partner members representing Due to this growth, state hotel tax the best of Chicago’s accommodations, revenue increased by $12.9 million and arts, culture and entertainment, attractions, Chicago hotel tax revenues increased dining and nightlife, trade associations, by $11.7 million. Equally important, our transportation, convention-related services industry supported 150,616 tourism- and countless community groups. related jobs here in Chicago including 1,786 new opportunities added in 2018. Thank you to each of you who shares in our mission and a special acknowledgement This year, we once again surpassed our to our Board of Directors and committees annual goal and confirmed more than and, of course, our team of professionals 2.6 million future room nights by securing at Choose Chicago. commitments from 60 major bookings at McCormick Place and 2,340 future meetings in and with our partner hotels. OUR VERY BEST WISHES TO YOUR In total, these meetings will welcome over 3.9 million future attendees — CONTINUED SUCCESS. meeting, staying and playing in Chicago.

The success also translated into positive results for our clients. In 2018, 20 of the 50 major meetings in Chicago broke DEAR On behalf of Choose Chicago, we want to thank you for your either all-time attendance records and/ or exhibitor participation records. PARTNERS, collaboration and commitment to the tourism, hospitality Our thriving meetings and events DESIREE ROGERS DAVID WHITAKER and meetings industry. We’re extremely pleased to share industry is augmented by a growth in BOARD CHAIR, PRESIDENT & CEO, our 2018 Annual Report, which highlights many of the key leisure visitors. The number of leisure CHOOSE CHICAGO CHOOSE CHICAGO visitors increased 4.8% in 2018 — more accomplishments of our organization and the results of than double the growth generated in our valued partnerships. 2017. This increase also helped support new hotel investments; Chicago welcomed nine new hotel properties in 2018.

6 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 7 2018 OPERATIONS

REVENUE BY SOURCE

50.9% STATE OF ILLINOIS

24.1% MPEA AGREEMENT

13.9% PRIVATE REVENUES

11.1% CITY OF CHICAGO

OPERATING $29,136,677 REVENUE

EXPENSE BY DEPARTMENT 4.1% GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT 1.8% CULTURAL TOURISM

1.5% RESEARCH 32.6% MARKETING 4.0% CHICAGO SPORTS COMMISSION

2.7% EXECUTIVE OFFICE

4.5% TOTAL EXPENSES: CORPORATE ALLOCATIONS $33,146,509*

31.3% 2.3% IN-KIND SALES & SERVICES 1.9% PUBLIC POLICY

6.3% 7.0% ADMINISTRATIVE MEDIA RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS

* Includes Board-approved draw-down of $4,009,832 in operating reserves to support 2018 initiatives

8 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 9 ECONOMIC IMPACT

Tourism is a crucial part of the city’s economic growth and job development. Chicago continues to benefit from the revenue and employment generated by its thriving tourism industry.

TOURISM-RELATED EMPLOYMENT

133.5K 136.0K 140.5K 145.1K 148.8K 150.6K

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 +1.2% from 2017 DIRECT TOURISM SPENDING

$13.3B $14.1B $14.6B $14.9B $15.4B $16.0B

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 +4.0% from 2017 TOTAL TAX REVENUE GENERATED

$836.1M $885.2M $891.6M $953.1M $1.0B $1.1B

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 +4.0% from 2017 CHICAGO HOTEL TAX REVENUE

$106.3M $113.6M $123.9M $127.1M $128.5M $140.2M

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 +9.1% from 2017 STATE HOTEL TAX REVENUE

$117.5M $125.6M $137.0M $140.5M $142.1M $155.1M

2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 +9.1% from 2017

10 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 11 VISITATION

In 2018, Chicago set a new tourism record with 57.7 MILLION DOMESTIC VISITATION (% CHANGE) VISITORS, 2.4 million more than the previous year. 4.8%

4.4% 4.3%

These increases TOTAL VISITATION are the result of a continued focus (Domestic & Overseas) 2.8% 2.6% on growing our overnight and 2.1% leisure visitors to Chicago, who tend to spend 57.7M more and stay 2018 longer. 57.6M 55.3M 2017 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018

53.8M TOTAL LEISURE OVERNIGHT 2016

52.6M 2015

50.0M 2014

48.3M 2013

12 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 13 HOTEL SNAPSHOT - CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

OCCUPANCY RATE AVERAGE DAILY RATE REVENUE PER AVAILABLE ROOM 75.36% $213.11 RECORD $160.61 +4.5% RECORD +5.4%

ROOMS AVAILABLE ROOMS OCCUPIED REVENUE 15.6M 11.8M $2.5B RECORD RECORD RECORD +3.5% +4.4% +9.1%

CHICAGO HOTEL TAX REVENUE $140,237,989 RECORD +9.1%

14 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 15 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS

MAJOR MAJOR EVENTS BOOKED IN 2018 Hosting events, meetings and conventions contributes to the economic CONFIRMATIONS2.6M FUTURE ROOM APRIL 2019 MARCH 2021 health of the city and state. Our collective teams help bring meetings NIGHTS SECURED STAR WARS CELEBRATION ORACLE CORPORATION Anticipated attendees: Anticipated attendees: 6,000 and events to McCormick Place and Chicago hotels and event venues. 140,000 MAY 2021 JUNE 2019 AMERICAN ALLIANCE OF 101% SLATE INNOVATION SUMMIT MUSEUMS ANNUAL MEETING OF 2018 GOAL Anticipated attendees: 2,000 & MUSEUM EXPO Anticipated attendees: 5,000 2,421 $4.0B 2,336 JULY 2019 TOTAL MEETINGS IN ECONOMIC IMPACT AS A MEETINGS BOOKED INTERNATIONAL SEPTEMBER 2021 BOOKED RESULT OF ALL CONVENTIONS FOR HOTEL IN-HOUSE ASSOCIATION OF VENUE NATIONAL BLACK MBA

AND MEETINGS BOOKED BUSINESS 954,056 MANAGERS VENUECONNECT ASSOCIATION ANNUAL ROOM NIGHTS Anticipated attendees: 2,500 CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION Anticipated attendees: 8,000 (or 35.6% of room night production booked within AUGUST 2019 NISSAN FY20 NATIONAL OCTOBER 2021 a 36-month window) DEALER MEETING OR MANAGER CONFERENCE Anticipated attendees: 2,400 & PACU MANAGER SUMMIT Anticipated attendees: 2,000 SEPTEMBER 2019 STARBUCKS LEADERSHIP MARCH 2022 CONFERENCE ACADEMY OF MANAGED Anticipated attendees: 13,000 CARE PHARMACY ANNUAL CONFERENCE MARCH 2020 Anticipated attendees: 4,000 ORACLE CORPORATION Anticipated attendees: 6,000 DECEMBER 2022 AMERICAN GEOPHYSICAL AUGUST 2020 UNION FALL MEETING INDEPENDENT GARDEN Anticipated attendees: CENTER SHOW 25,000 Anticipated attendees: 6,500

HEALTHTRUST UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE Anticipated attendees: 3,200

PANERA BREAD FAMILY REUNION Total Media Anticipated attendees: 4,500 Investment

McCORMICK PLACE

total future new major future of these meetings of these meetings in economic 8181 meetings secured 60 meetings 15 will convene in 66 have not met in $1.2$1.2B impact from 60 and conventions 15 Chicago for the Chicago for 10 60 new meetings 20 MORE THAN 2017 first time years or more booked at 10 MORE THAN 2017 McCormick Place

16 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 17 RECORD-BREAKING PARTNERSHIPS 2018 PARTNER BREAKDOWN

35% CONVENTION CENTERS / CONFERENCE FACILITIES Choose Chicago's Partnership Program empowers local organizations to DINING 1% expand their marketing reach and connect to visitors in innovative ways. 2% MUSIC, COMEDY AND NIGHTLIFE 2% VISITOR RESOURCES 18% MEETING & 2% MUSEUMS EVENT SUPPLIERS 2% 1,552 242 90% SPORTS & RECREATION SHOPPING TOTAL PARTNERS, NEW PARTNERS RETENTION 3% A NEW RECORD IN 2018 IN 2018 3% THEATRE/PERFORMING ARTS 4% 12% TRANSPORTATION ACCOMMODATION 4% SPECIAL EVENT VENUES

ASSOCIATIONS/ORGANIZATIONS 7% TOURS/ATTRACTIONS 5%

PARTNER NETWORKING & NEW INITIATIVES EDUCATION EVENTS ONBOARDING VIDEO SERIES: This series of Our annual events are designed to help partners emails and videos helps educate new partners build their network and expand their professional about the benefits and resources available knowledge. Here’s an overview of this year’s through their partnership with Choose Chicago. innovative initiatives: AMBASSADOR WELCOME PROGRAM: This program empowers Choose Chicago Ambassadors MENU ENGINEERING: Dining partners learned to guide new partners on the many opportunities how to increase profits and lower costs with available to them during their first year of William Post, former President and COO of Levy partnership. Restaurants and co-founder of Roti Modern Mediterranean. TOP 10 TOURISM DEVELOPMENTS: A group of Chicago’s most passionate advocates spoke about the top tourism developments in 2018 and beyond that will impact the visitor experience in Chicago. MARKETING OUTLOOK: Partners reviewed the results of Choose Chicago’s summer marketing efforts and got a preview of 2019 plans from President & CEO David Whitaker and the leadership team. SOCIAL MEDIA MEET-UP: This event helps partners pick up relevant skills and answer questions about making the most of social media.

18 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 19 OUR STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Thank you to our 2018 Strategic Marketing Partners for their unmatched level of commitment to Chicago. The support of Strategic Marketing Partners helps us strengthen Chicago’s position as the top destination for leisure and business travel. “IT WAS AMAZING! THERE IS SO MUCH FABULOUS — AND THIS MAKES IT MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL OF US.”

CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK ATTENDEE

“THANKS TO OUR LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH CHOOSE CHICAGO, WHICH HIGHLIGHTS THE DIVERSITY AND VIBRANCY OF OUR CITY, OUR AIRPORTS CONTINUE TO WELCOME MORE TRAVELERS TO THE CITY EACH YEAR."

COMMISSIONER JAMIE L. RHEE, CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION

20 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 21 02 / 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CULINARY EVENTS

These annual events showcase Chicago’s acclaimed culinary scene, from award-winning restaurants to celebrity chefs. They also help our dining partners build awareness for their business and bring in more guests.

JAMES BEARD AWARDS Choose Chicago and the Illinois Restaurant 139 Association are proud to host the James restaurants Beard Awards through 2027. Congratulations participated in to Chicago’s Abraham Conlon of Fat Rice, JAMES BEARD named Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2018. EATS WEEK, an 11-day culinary celebration leading up to the awards

CHICAGO RESTAURANT WEEK FIRST BITES BASH 365 participating restaurants NEW RECORD 1,500 guests 115 first-time participants 65 participating restaurants 639,610 diners served $12,000 raised for the Greater Chicago Food Depository $29.9M in economic impact SPONSORED BY:

SPONSORED BY:

PMS 7427

PMS 7427

toque + bottle ADVISORY 22 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 23 OUR UNION PARTNERS

Choose Chicago and our industry enjoy the strong support and service of the Chicago Federation of Labor and a collective team focused on serving our customers, clients and guests.

“IT WAS AMAZING! THERE IS SO MUCH FABULOUS THEATER IN CHICAGO — AND THIS MAKES IT MORE ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL OF US.”

CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK ATTENDEE

24 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 25 02 / 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CLIENT SERVICES

Our Client Services team serves as an expert resource to convention planners. RECORD CONVENTIONS IN 2018

They help ensure that meeting planners and attendees have a world-class JAN. 2 – 7 MAY 22 – 24 AUG. 8 – 10 FELLOWSHIP OF NATIONAL ACADEMY OF experience in Chicago from start to finish — and help bring them back to CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY CONFECTIONERS MANAGEMENT – 2018 STUDENTS – SLS18 ASSOCIATION – NCA 2018 ANNUAL MEETING our city year after year. • Record attendance SWEETS & SNACKS EXPO • Record attendance • Record attendance JAN. 22 – 24 • Record exhibit space AUG. 18 – 21 INTERNATIONAL AMERICAN SOCIETY OF EXPOSITION COMPANY – JUNE 1 – 5 ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES AHR EXPO AMERICAN SOCIETY OF – ASAE 2018 ANNUAL • Record attendance CLINICAL ONCOLOGY – MEETING & EXPOSITION TEAM • Record exhibit space ASCO ANNUAL MEETING • Record attendance • Record exhibitors • Record attendance • Record funds raised for ACCOMPLISHMENTS • Record participating • Record fundraiser for local charities countries the Conquer Cancer Foundation SEPT. 10 – 15 APRIL 14 – 18 THE ASSOCIATION AMERICAN ASSOCIATION JUNE 11 – 13 FOR MANUFACTURING 92 FOR CANCER RESEARCH – NEOCON TECHNOLOGY – conventions served AACR ANNUAL MEETING • Record attendance INTERNATIONAL in 2018, a new • Record attendance MANUFACTURING record JUNE 17 - 20 TECHNOLOGY SHOW MAY 6 – 10 SOCIETY FOR HUMAN • Record attendance LIGHTFAIR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT – • Record exhibit space INTERNATIONAL SHRM 2018 ANNUAL • Record exhibitors 17 • Record exhibit space CONFERENCE& pre-promotion trips EXPOSITION OCT. 14 – 17 highlighting Chicago MAY 7 – 19 • Record attendance PMMI – PACK EXPO to conventions AMERICAN WIND • Record exhibit space INTERNATIONAL coming here in 2019 ENERGY ASSOCIATION – • Record exhibit space WINDPOWER JUNE 24 – 27 • Record exhibitors • Record exhibitors INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR TECHNOLOGY NOV. 4 – 6 4.8 MAY 22 – 24 IN EDUCATION – ISTE ASSOCIATION NATIONAL RESTAURANT CONFERENCE & EXPO FOR FINANCIAL average rating out • Record attendance PROFESSIONALS – of 5 that our Client ASSOCIATION – NATIONAL RESTAURANT SHOW • Record exhibitors AFP 2018 Services Managers • Record exhibit space for • Record attendance received on their the fourth year in a row JULY 21 – 26 • Record exhibit space service performance ALZHEIMER’S • Record exhibitors in 2018 from client ASSOCIATION – 2018 surveys INTERNATIONAL DEC. 19 – 21 CONFERENCE THE MIDWEST CLINIC – • Record attendance INTERNATIONAL BAND, • Record exhibitors ORCHESTRA AND MUSIC • Record exhibit space CONFERENCE 217 • Record attendance site visits educating • Record exhibit space clients about JULY 29 – AUGUST 2 Chicago AMERICAN ASSOCIATION ROZ STUTTLEY, Director of FOR CLINICAL CHEMISTRY – DEC. 27 – 29 $70,000 raised AACC ANNUAL MEETING & MUSLIM AMERICAN Client Services, was awarded the 2018 for the Greater Chicago Food CLINICAL LAB EXPO SOCIETY – MAS-ICNA 2018 Convention Manager of the Year Depository and Little Brothers Award by the national Event Service • Record exhibitors • Record attendance Friends of the Elderly during • Record exhibit space Professionals Association ASAE 2018

26 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 27 MARKETING WEBSITE ENGAGEMENTS (JANUARY – DECEMBER) The expansion of Welcome Home to a national audience drove increased traffic from the states with the ten largest cities, along with our core regional audience.

NEW YORK Choose Chicago continued to build on its award-winning Welcome Home 41%

campaign, which helped bring in a record number of regional, national and MASSACHUSETTS MINNESOTA MICHIGAN 43% international visitors to experience the city that feels like home. 33% 8%

WISCONSIN CALIFORNIA 38% 6%

OHIO 19% DC 34% KEY MISSOURI IMPROVEMENTS 15% INDIANA 5 -1%

1. Shifted from traditional media to a TEXAS 36% FLORIDA digital-first approach 41% 2. Connected with people on their devices through behavioral targeting 3. Expanded from a regional-only focus to a national and international focus CHOOSECHICAGO.COM (JANUARY – DECEMBER) 4. Aligned messaging across nine key content pillars M M M 5. Implemented a robust global 8.3 6.0 4.7 influencer marketing strategy +14.5% from 2017 +17% from 2017 +23% from 2017 website visits new visitors mobile visits

WELCOME HOME CAMPAIGN RESULTS WELCOME HOME $5.3M $1.2B 929,269 58.4M SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS @CHOOSECHICAGO total media economic impact incremental trips average impressions investment generated delivered per month +44% from 2017 +22% from 2017 +37% from 2017 287,346 94,237 227,158 LIKES FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS $238 return on media investment $6.49 hotel tax return on investment +19% from 2017 +2.5% from 2017 +19% from 2017

28 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 29 INTERNATIONAL MARKETING

GROWTH IN INTERNATIONAL FOLLOWERS 436% 32.8% 1,961 GLOBAL INFLUENCER MARKETING INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK WECHAT The Marketing and Media Relations teams hosted 45 social media influencers and vloggers from (GROWTH FROM (GROWTH FROM FOLLOWERS several key countries. Influencers were taken 2017 TO 2018) 2017 TO 2018) SINCE LAUNCH on tours of Chicago, with itineraries covering (SEPTEMBER 2018 - different traveler interests, and then shared DECEMBER 2018) their experiences on social media.

YOUTUBE GLOBAL WEBSITE TRAFFIC Our international marketing efforts drove significant increases 880,485 VIEWS in traffic to our website from many of our target countries. (GROWTH FROM 2017 TO 2018)

INSTAGRAM 50.9M IMPRESSIONS

WEIBO 5.1M REACHED CANADA GERMANY 3% 40%

SOUTH KOREA 2%

SOCIAL MEDIA BRAZIL U.K. 2% In 2018, we saw increased INDIA engagement with our FRANCE 26% in-language social media accounts in many of our JAPAN target countries. JAPAN MEXICO MEXICO FRANCE 3% GERMANY 5% 12%

CANADA

CHINA AUSTRALIA BRAZIL 20% 56%

30 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 31 MEDIA RELATIONS JAPAN GERMANY abenteuer und reisen Circulation: 861,000 Circulation: 93,833 Media value: $90,000 Our Media Relations team generates print, online, social and broadcast media Media value: $200,882 coverage of Chicago. We pitch and promote the destination across the globe to domestic and international journalists and host media in the city to experience firsthand all that Chicago offers.

CHINA Men's Health USA Circulation: 850,000 Travel + Leisure Media value: $310,590 Circulation: 969,266 MEXICO Milenio Media value: $1.2M Circulation: 104,244 Media value: $29,382

FRANCE L'Obs Circulation: 359,285 Media value: $139,060 BRAZIL O Estado de São Paulo TRAVEL FACTBOX Circulation: 162,630 SEE THE MATCH Ireland take on Italy on Saturday, November 3, with kick off at 3pm. Media value: $318,843 Tickets start at $40, and you can buy them directly from therugbyweekend.com. Killester Travel (rugbytravel.ie) has a three-night package from November 1 - 5, from €1,250 pps, which includes direct flights, transfers, accommodation and match transfers but not tickets (which can be added on from €100). Rugby Travel Ireland (rugbytravelireland.com) has a three- night package, again from November 1 - 5, which includes direct flights, transfers, accommodation and match tickets, from €1,395pps.

GETTING THERE At the time of writing, flights were a steal – we found direct flights with Aer Lingus (aerlingus.com) departing DECEMBER – JANUARY 2018 HIGHLIGHTS November 2 and flying back on November 6 for €376 return. If they shoot up, it’s worth checking WOW Air (wowair.ie) – its return flights via Reykjavik are currently hovering around the €325 mark. Or check skyscanner.ie. NB: Prices subject to availability.

WHAT TO PACK Chicago winters can be brutal, but at the start of November things could go either way – you might be blessed with a cool, autumn weekend, or temperatures that plummet. Prepare for either and pack 48 Hours in Chicago accordingly – bring lots of layers and a good winter coat, and you’ll be ready for anything.

t’s been two years since Ireland’s BY NICOLA BRADY See more at choosechicago.com famous defeat of the All Blacks at $37.5M 7B 2,000 449 46 19 Chicago’s . And now Instagrammed landmark. Get up close to the boys in green are returning to this super reflective sculpture and you can the scene of their greatest triumph, squeeze the towering buildings nearby into to play Italy in November. Here’s your selfie to boot… Don’t miss the nearby earned published Ihow to plot a weekend around what’s set to art installation, where readers, media hosted domestic and domestic and be one hell of an occasion. faces of Chicago residents are projected onto two towers, with the illusion that SATURDAY they’re spouting water into a reflecting 3pm – Kick Off neighbourhood, and is renowned for one media value articles and 9.30am – Sail the Sights pool. If you want to shake off the jet lag, It’s match time! The walk to Soldier Field dish – the Kalamata chicken. And boy, is it listeners and in Chicago international international Get your bearings with an architecture strap on some skates and whizz around the takes around 35 minutes from Revival, so worth the trek. Half a chicken is roasted, cruise along the Chicago River. There’s The ice ribbon, which plan accordingly – and don’t bother trying then grilled, for a super crispy skin, before no better way to see the city’s striking usually opens in November time. to get a cab, as there’ll be traffic galore all being dunked in a juicy sauce of lemon, viewers broadcasts press tours in-market skyscrapers than sitting on a boat and How: maggiedaleypark.com around the stadium. While you’re there, garlic and herbs. Then it’s plonked onto a theatre and training centre has shows gliding along the water – and if things get don’t neglect the best part of American bed of thick cut steak fries, before another on every night, from little comedy teams chilly, the heated lounge downstairs is nice 1pm – Grab a Bite sports grounds – the food. Load up with ladleful of those oily juices are plonked trying out new bits, to long running sketch and toasty. Plus, it has a full service bar… Travelling with a group? Got a few hot dogs, giant pretzels, and a craft beer all over the whole thing. It’s Tina Fey’s shows from their resident troupes. This highlighting media events with beers, wines and cocktails. Cocktails! different tastebuds to satisfy? The Revival or two from Heartland Hops, of course. favourite dish in Chicago – she sent David is where all the greats started out – Steve There’s a lovely riverwalk along the water Food Hall is the perfect spot to keep Americans do sports a little differently – Letterman there in his new Netflix show, Carell, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, Tina Fey, too, with some wineries and craft beer bars everyone happy. Loads of Chicago’s best don’t be surprised if you see more people at so watch that if you want to get build up an Amy Poehler… the list is endless. If you along the way. restaurants have an outpost in this super- the bar than you do in their seats. appetite. want to catch an 11pm show, The Second travel to How: Chicago’s Original Architecture Tour chic marketplace, so you can all grab How: soldierfield.net How: 807 W Webster Ave City After Hours: A Late Night Improv costs $39, wendellaboats.com something different then nab a table in the Show is a failsafe laugh (and there’s table cafeteria. Our tip? Opt for the spankingly 7pm – Dinner Time 8pm – Have a Laugh service for your drinks, too). 11.30am – Stroll to The Bean hot Nashville fried chicken from The If you haven’t hit the snack carts too Yes, you may still be in the pub. But if How: Improv show from $18, main stage from Chicago When you dock, take the short stroll down Budlong, along with a portion of mac and hard, then you’ll want to line the stomach you’re not… Chicago is the Holy Grail for $38, see secondcity.com through to cheese. You won’t regret it. with a big feed. The Athenian Room is improv comedy, and the epicentre of it all (AKA The Bean), probably Chicago’s most How: revivalfoodhall.com a Greek restaurant in the is the fabled Second City. This multi-stage Continued on 38 Æ U.K. 36 | LINEOUT Irish Independent | 12 October 2018 12 October 2018 | Irish Independent LINEOUT | 37 Saturday Magazine (Daily Express) Circulation: 370,632 CANADA Media value: $20,708 Toronto Star Unique visitors monthly: 3.5M Media value: $32,144 32 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 33 34 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 35 SPECIAL EVENTS PUBLIC POLICY

ROAD SHOWS We need the support of local and national leaders In 2018, our Public Policy team was instrumental Choose Chicago hit the road to secure funding and achieve our goals. Our in securing 2019 funding for Choose Chicago to visit our meeting prospects Public Policy & Community Affairs team helps from our state government. This year, the team and clients in key markets. Choose Chicago build strong relationships with will continue to work closely with elected officials Joe Flamm, Top Chef Season elected officials at all levels of government. and spread the word about the positive impact of tourism. 15 winner and Executive Chef The team also helps develop policy solutions, at Spiaggia, joined the team for particularly in the travel industry, and works to some fun, interactive demos. educate and empower our membership to join their advocacy.

AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES We were excited to host the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting & Exposition from Aug. 18 – 21. The meeting brought in 5,505 hospitality industry professionals, including almost 3,500 association executives across industries. This event is an exceptional opportunity to showcase all that our city has to offer as a meetings destination.

CO-PRESENTING SPONSORS:

DIAMOND SPONSORS:

KUSHNER & ASSOCIATES Meeting and Convention Transportation www.KushnerShuttles.com

HOSPITALITY HIRES CHICAGO CUSTOMER ADVISORY BOARD GOLD SPONSORS: Our partners spearhead Hospitality Hires The Customer Advisory Board includes Chicago, a hiring initiative launched in 2017 approximately 20 key meeting and event clients that connects job seekers to opportunities FROST lighting · staging · video · audio · fabric and prospects. We bring the board together on in the local hospitality sector. OUR HOSPITALITY HIRES CHICAGO PARTNERS: a regular basis, most recently in November 2018, to advise on marketing Chicago as a premier PLATINUM SPONSOR: meetings destination. 2018 RESULTS 500 job seekers connected with CHICAGO GOLF CLASSIC over 80 employers The Chicago Golf Classic welcomed almost 200 golfers to Harborside International Golf 1,500 interviews conducted Center on Oct. 4, 2018. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this event. 650 jobs generated in the hospitality industry since launch

36 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 37 CULTURAL TOURISM CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK Chicago Theatre Week, back for its sixth year in 2018, “IT WAS AMAZING! showcases Chicago’s world-class theatre scene. Choose Chicago partners with the League of Chicago Theatres to offer value-priced tickets to 115 shows from 100 participating organizations. THERE IS SO MUCH FABULOUS Our city is brimming with cultural events, attractions and neighborhoods. And our Cultural Tourism team is responsible for promoting them to the world. CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK In 2018, they made groundbreaking strides in positioning Chicago as a global TICKET SALES THEATRE IN CHICAGO — tourism destination. 12,500 11,750 AND THIS MAKES IT MORE 10,500 9,600

ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL OF US.” CHICAGO GREETER 7,900 This free service matches visitors with friendly, knowledgeable volunteers for guided tours of CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK ATTENDEE Chicago’s downtown and neighborhoods.

2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 9,780 TOTAL TOUR 17% of attendees came from more than 50 miles PARTICIPANTS outside of Chicago, including 40 states and Germany, IN 2018 Canada, Belgium, Mexico and the U.K. +6.9% from 2017 66% of Theatre Week attendees visited a new theatre

5,750 international participants CHOOSE CHICAGO & CHINA Our close relationship with the Ministry of Culture & Tourism of the 4,030 People’s Republic of China strengthens cooperation between our domestic communities and highlights both as global cultural destinations. participants During the fifth year of our Chinese New Year celebration, we invited the Chongqing Chuanju Opera Theatre and the Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra from China to perform to a sold-out audience at the Chicago 600 . Choose Chicago also co-hosted the Chinese Mongolia tours conducted Band for two concerts during the annual World Music Festival. in a language besides English

300 participants CHICAGO FRIDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS MOBILE VISITOR on 60 tours for INFORMATION CENTER Media Relations The second season of Chicago Friday Night Flights The Mobile Visitor Information Center & Global showcased our city as an epicenter of the craft launched in 2018 in partnership Development beer movement, in partnership with the Illinois Craft with CTM Media Group. The teams Brewers Guild. More than 3,590 tasting passes were sold to six events in vibrant areas across the city. center handed out 39,290 brochures & Chicago Official Visitor Guides over the summer. 38 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 39 GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT

3,451 travel trade professionals reached through 31 sales missions and calls International visitors stay longer and spend more, making them a vital part of the city’s tourism goals. In 2018, our Global Development Team 1,999 appointments helped raise awareness of Chicago as a leading tourism destination in at 13 international and 3 major markets around the globe. domestic trade shows

12 key client events hosted

34 108% 100% 27 FAM trips hosted in COUNTRIES ABOVE GOAL IN OF GOAL REACHED IN Chicago for 268 travel trade REACHED FAMILIARIZATION INTERNATIONAL TRADE professionals (FAM) TRIPS SHOWS ATTENDED

81 international destination trainings held, reaching an audience of over 5,114 BENELUX* UK FAM, sales calls, training, promotions FAMs, sales calls, NORDIC** initiatives to promote trade show, trainings, 76 FAM, trade shows, trainings, international and domestic client event, promotions promotions tourism to Chicago CHINA (MAINLAND) IRELAND FAMs, sales calls, trade show, trainings, Sales calls, trainings, client client events, promotions events, promotions HONG KONG, SAR CANADA GERMANY Sales calls, trade shows, promotions Trainings, FAM, sales calls, trade client event show, training, client USA event, promotions Sales calls, trade shows, training, JAPAN client events, promotions HUNGARY FAMs, sales calls, Training EL SALVADOR trade show, trainings, MEXICO FAM AUSTRIA promotions FAMs, sales calls, FAM trainings, client event, SOUTH KOREA promotions SPAIN ITALY FAM, sales calls, trade Promotions FAMs, show, trainings, sales calls, promotions COLOMBIA trade show, FAM FRANCE FAMs, sales calls, trainings, AUSTRALIA CHILE trainings, promotions promotions TAIWAN FAMs, sales calls, FAM, trade show, trade show, trainings, FAMs promotions GULF COOPERATION client event, Our team collaborated with *** promotions ARGENTINA COUNCIL Brand USA to add Chicago to FAM Sales calls, trade show, trainings INDIA Sales calls, trade show, their USA Discovery Program. trainings, promotions NEW ZEALAND The Chicago badge is now BRAZIL FAMs, sales calls, trainings, trade FAMs, sales calls, trainings, show, client event, promotions active in eight markets: promotions Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, China, India, Mexico, U.K. and Ireland.

* Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg 1,440 agents certified to date ** Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden *** Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates

40 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 41 CHICAGO SPORTS COMMISSION

Hosting major athletic events can be a game-changer for our city. The Chicago Sports Commission wins the rights to host high-profile, major THE RUGBY WEEKEND

sports events to drive economic impact, create jobs and generate positive Nov. 3 at Soldier Field media exposure. 6 teams played in a historic tripleheader 35,000 attendees 1st time New Zealand's national 12 #12 106,800+ women's team competed in U.S. EVENTS HOSTED BCW 2019 RANKING OF ROOM NIGHTS 1st time Italy’s national men’s team IN 2018 SPORTS CITIES PLACED GENERATED IN 2018 competed in Chicago CHICAGO AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST SPORTS CITIES

MAJOR EVENTS IN 2019 UNITED SOCCER COACHES CONVENTION Jan. 9 – 13 at McCormick Place 14,070 attendees from all 50 states and 38 countries $21.3M in economic impact 10,306 room nights

LAVER Sept. 21 – 23 at the BIG TEN MEN’S BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT CUP 93,000+ attendees March 13 – 17 at United Center 50+ countries represented by attendees 122,242 attendees over seven 35,485 room nights sessions — 2nd largest in event history $98.6M economic impact 9.7M viewers in 205 territories CONCACAF GOLD CUP July 7 at Soldier Field 60,000+ anticipated attendees

FIVB VOLLEYBALL NATIONS “WE KNOW THIS IS A SPORTS-CRAZED CITY. LEAGUE 2019 July 10 – 14 at WE ARE VERY THRILLED TO BE HERE.” 35,000+ anticipated attendance over five days ROGER FEDERER

42 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 43 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS THANKSTHANKS TOTO OUROUR CORPORATECORPORATE PARTNERSPARTNERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (HALL OF FAME) THANKSEXECUTIVE TO COMMITTEE OUR CORPORATE(HALL OF FAME) PARTNERS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (HALL OF FAME) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (HALL OF FAME)

BOARD (MVP & ALL-STAR) BOARDBOARD (MVP(MVP & ALL-STAR)ALL-STAR) BOARD (MVP & ALL-STAR)

bKL ARCHITECTURE bKL ARCHITECTURE bKL IN AFFILIATION WITH ARCHITECTURE IN AFFILIATION WITH ININ AFFILIATIONAFFILIATION WITHWITH

Chicago Sports Commission 72 East 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60601 312.567.8595 Chicago Sports Commission 72 East Randolph Street 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60601 312.567.8595 Chicago Sports Commission 72 East Randolph Street 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60601 312.567.8595 44 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 45 CHOOSECHICAGO.COM / 03 OFFICERS EXECUTIVE STAFF

DESIREE ROGERS GILLIAN DARLOW LOU RAIZIN PATRICK DONELLY MARC ANDERSON JASON LESNIEWICZ Board Chair Vice Chair Treasurer Secretary Chief Operating Officer Director Choose Chicago CEO President General Manager Cultural Tourism Polk Bros. Foundation Broadway in Chicago Hyatt Regency Chicago LORI ADLESICK Vice President JIM MEYER Industry Relations and Chief Financial Officer Special Events JULIE MULLINS DARRELL BAKER Vice President 2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS EX-OFFICIO Vice President Convention Sales Trade Show Sales RALPH AFFFRUNTI MARK LAUER HARRIET SEITLER WALTER BURNETT JR. AL ORENDORFF President General Manager Chief Marketing Officer/ Alderman, 27th Ward KARA BACHMAN Director Chicago & Cook County Sheraton Grand Chicago Executive Vice President City of Chicago Executive Director Corporate Building & Construction OWN Chicago Sports Communications Trades Council THOMAS J. LOUGHLIN DON FINN Commission Area Vice President ALPANA SINGH Business Manager, MAYANK PATEL HOLLY AGRA Hilton Master Sommelier Financial Secretary KEN BENNETT Director President Owner of Terra and Vine I.B.E.W. Local 134 Senior Advisor Information Technology Chicago's First Lady Cruises KEVIN MCLAUGHLIN Restaurant Public Policy/ Business Representative BILLY GLUNZ Community Affairs BRIAN SAID JOHN R. COLLETTI United Brotherhood of MELODY SPANN-COOPER Regional Director, Vice President Managing Partner Carpenters, Local 10 Chairman | President Government Affairs RITA CHEN Global Development The Gibsons Midway Broadcasting American Airlines Vice President Restaurant Group JERRY MICKELSON Corporation | WVON, WRLL Marketing DAVID WHITAKER Chairman and Co-Founder LORI HEALEY President & Chief ROSA ESCARENO Jam Productions CHRISTIE TARANTINO- CEO DAVID CZECHOWSKI Executive Officer Commissioner DEAN Metropolitan Pier Director/Senior Economist Chicago Department LYNN J. OSMOND CEO & Exposition Authority Research Analysis DAWN YOUNG of Business Affairs and Hon. AIA, CAE Institute of Food Vice President Consumer Protection President & CEO Technologists AMY HUGHES LISA DIXON Hotel Sales Chicago Architecture Center Illinois – Michigan Director LAURENCE GELLER SAM TOIA Market Executive | Human Resources Chairman JORGE RAMIREZ President & CEO Managing Director Geller Capital Partners Chair Illinois Restaurant Association U.S. Trust | Bank of CAROLYN EARNER Chicago Sports Commission America Private Executive Assistant to the BRETT HART CARLOS TORTOLERO Wealth Management President & CEO Executive Vice President, MARIA RAZUMICH-ZEC Founder and President Chief Administrative Officer Regional Vice President and National Museum of MARK KELLY JORDAN ENGERMAN and General Counsel General Manager Mexican Art Commissioner Director United Airlines The Peninsula Chicago Chicago Department Partnerships RON VLASIC of Cultural Affairs & JAKE HENRY SANDRA REYNOLDS Chief Operating Officer Special Events MICHELLE GONZALEZ Senior Partner and Managing Chief Operating Officer Hostmark Hospitality Group Vice President Partner, Chicago Office Kendall Miles Designs BARBARA LAKEN Media Relations McKinsey & Company MARK G. WATSON Regional Sales Director JAMIE RHEE Executive Director United Airlines ANGELA HEARN MATTHEW HYNES Commissioner Radiological Society of North Director Managing Director Chicago Department of America JOHN TOMASIEWICZ Marketing GCM Grosvenor Aviation Director, Client KEVIN WILLER Management ROSE HORCHER MARKO IGLENDZA THOMAS S. RICKETTS Partner American Express – Vice President Founder & CEO Chairman | Incapital LLC Chicago Ventures Global Merchant Client Services Terminal Getaway Spa Executive Chairman | Services Chicago Cubs ANDREA ZOPP KWANG-WU KIM President and CEO President and CEO MANUEL “MANNY” World Business Chicago SANCHEZ Founding Partner and Managing Partner Sanchez Daniels & Hoffman LLP

46 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 47 48 | 2018 ANNUAL REPORT CHOOSECHICAGO.COM | 49 STAY CONNECTED

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