CHICAGO – Chicago’s business leaders came together under one roof on Tuesday for the 20th Annual Hospitality & Tourism Summit. Organizers told WGN they were happy to be back after the pandemic made last year’s event virtual.

The Navy Pier Grand Ballroom was full all day – a welcome sight for many vendors in attendance. Some say their businesses barely survived the pandemic. Others consider Tuesday’s turnout to be a glimmer of hope after a difficult year.

“It feels amazing because, first of all, we need each other,” said Kevin Ball of In Grape Company. “We have to be able to react and see smiles on their faces. Most importantly, I think there will be a lot of things we’ve learned in the last year or two that we can hold onto and reintegrate into this outdoor social world. “

On Tuesday, more than 85 restaurants, attractions, transportation companies and event services came together for the all-day event.

“This is about anyone in town involved in tourism or events that come together from the perspective of buyers and sellers to build the events and experiences our guests have come to expect from Chicago,” said organizer Tim O ‘ Malley.


Chicago will fully reopen on June 11th as Illinois moves into Phase 5

The city is preparing to fully reopen this Friday after Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot moved the date of a full reopening from July 4th to June 11th.

While the city still hasn’t reached its goal of fully vaccinating 70% of the total population – the city is currently at 41% – large businesses, conventions, and amusement parks have been able to do so since the pandemic began.

This is good news for so many companies that have been hit hard by the pandemic.

“For us to be hit by a wall like this and fire people, it didn’t deserve it,” said Kevin Duff, President of Signature Transporation Group. “Seeing our business go from 100% budget to 10% budget overnight was devastating. Therefore we are happy to be active again and to feel this energy here at this convention. “


Hospitality, Congresses return when the city enters Phase 5

With phase 5 immiment, the providers are looking forward to the future.

“The excitement and energy here today is incredible,” said Lisa Gurick, director of group sales and events at Hawthorne Race Course

The Navy Pier area convention lasts until 6:30 p.m.

More Chicago News headlines from WGN

Shut down

Suggest a correction

Suggest a correction

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR