Following the norovirus outbreak in Torri del Benaco, local authorities and tourism operators have decided to launch a communication campaign to restore the image of the area. The initiative was discussed in a meeting between Mayor Stefano Nicotra and representatives from Confcommercio Verona and Federalberghi Garda Veneto.
The meeting, held on Thursday 11th, was attended by Paolo Artelio, Vice President of Confcommercio Verona and President of the DVG Foundation, along with Confcommercio officials Paolo Caldana and Lisa Dal Collo. Also present were Luca Caputo, Director of DVG, Ivan De Beni, President of Federalberghi Garda Veneto with Director Mattia Boschelli, and Mirko Lorenzini, President of Federalberghi Torri.
Objectives of the Campaign
The campaign aims to restore the trust of tourists after the health incident that led to over 900 cases of gastroenteritis. The strategy involves targeted interventions in German-speaking markets, which are considered particularly sensitive to the incident. Funding will come in part from the local tourist tax.
Planned Actions
Promotional activities will focus on news outlets and social media to reach a wide audience. Additionally, data will be collected to assess the economic damage suffered by local tourism operators. Another meeting is scheduled for October to review the summer season and discuss any support measures to be implemented in 2025.
Statements from Participants
Paolo Artelio stated, “An immediate relaunch of the area to meet the legitimate needs of concerned entrepreneurs.” Ivan De Beni added, “We are satisfied with the promotional action taken; by October, we will definitely have a complete picture of the economic repercussions.”
Italian Version
