Domestic and international spend on food and wine experiences in NSW has increased by $20m in the last 12 months according to recent data from Destination NSW.
Destination NSW – the lead government agency for tourism and events in the state – has run over 20 campaigns globally with partners including airlines, travel agents and wholesalers along with Tourism Australia to highlight the state’s food and wine offerings.
The campaigns highlighted regional food and wine destinations such as the Hunter Valley, Orange, Mudgee, the Pacific Coast, the Blue Mountains and the South Coast as well as Sydney.
“NSW is enjoying somewhat of a food and wine tourism revolution with more visitors coming to our State to enjoy our award-winning beers, ciders and stunning wineries to our fresh produce from local producers and providores, outdoor dining in magnificent settings and our world-class restaurants,” says minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres.
“With the development and regeneration of urban areas, as well as a focus on local product, Sydney and NSW is experiencing a restaurant renaissance. New dining hotspots and exciting chefs are continuing to put NSW firmly on the foodie map – and our food tourism visitors are tucking in to these with gusto.”
CEO of Destination NSW, Sandra Chipchase was pleased to report the findings of the Agency’s campaigns, adding that the promotion of food and wine experiences, including leveraging Tourism Australia's Restaurant Australia, has become an integral part of Destination NSW's marketing campaigns.
“More than 36,000 agents globally took part in NSW food and wine training and over 70 new food and wine packages were delivered to our priority international markets including Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand, USA, India and the UK,” she said.