CityDNA report reveals holistic place making and marketing are key to building thriving cities

City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA) and marketing agency Toposophy have released a report on the role of Place Making and Marketing Organisations (PMMOs) in shaping the future of European cities. The report argues that PMMOs have a crucial role to play in helping cities transition towards holistic place making and marketing, with a focus on people rather than place. The report outlines eight areas of action for PMMOs to address in order to support citizens and attract diverse groups of people who can bring value to the city. These include attracting people who create value, articulating constructive place narratives, activating places and spaces, supporting community engagement, enhancing citizens’ wellbeing, balancing the needs of residents and visitors, understanding how people really behave, and transitioning towards new forms of partnership. With case studies from cities around the world, the report presents a high-level guide for Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs) on how to move forward and leverage their most compelling qualities and assets to attract investment, growth, and new residents and visitors. CityDNA president, Petra Stušek, commented on the report: “We are committed to a regenerative, inclusive and responsible visitor economy that benefits people, place, planet, and prosperity. It is a great pleasure to present our community with this distinctive report on understanding the challenges and opportunities in the transition of urban areas towards holistic place making.” Toposophy CEO, Manolis Psarros, added: “We hope that this guide can help lay the foundations for successful Place Making and Marketing Organisations to support their cities across Europe.” DOWNLOAD THE REPORT and/or register below for a 45-minute webinar on 17 January, where Toposophy will present findings from the report, together with CityDNA representatives. REGISTER FOR THE WEBINAR