Hood River County, Oregon

About This Project

The Pulse Group was retained by the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce to assist them in enhancing the Hood River Tourism brand image and providing an overall management review of tourism related marketing activities. As part of our work, we conducted a summary destination audit; reviewed existing operating systems, marketing materials and media strategies; examined the operations of the County’s Visitor Council; and, conducted about 25 personal and telephone interviews with key tourism related stakeholders representing: attractions, operators, media, government and associations. The purpose of the interviews was to better understand areas of strength, weakness and opportunities to grow Hood River in size and stature as a tourism destination. In addition, we examined the branding strategies/web presence of other northwest destinations and created a targeted visitor profile based on secondary market research. At the conclusion of our work, we facilitated a half-day stakeholder forum, where we presented our findings/recommendations for making innovations to the Hood River tourism brand, along with suggestions for new brand imagery and messaging that will be launched in 2009.