Cornwall’s tourism sector is being invited to take part in a survey to help shape a collaborative Destination Management Organisation (DMO) to champion the visitor economy.
Porthmeor Beach, St Ives, at the height of the tourist season this summer
Working in partnership with Cornwall Council, the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Economic Forum appointed a small working group of representatives from the tourism sector to help produce the survey.
Following the loss of Visit Cornwall, businesses, tourism-related associations, tourist information centres, and local councils are being asked what they want to see from a new DMO and how the organisation should be structured.
DMOs play a vital role in promoting Cornwall as a welcoming, year-round destination. They also share research and represent the needs of businesses, employers, membership organisations, and community stakeholders from across the sector.
Feedback from the survey will be presented during an event at the Eden Project in late January, where industry leaders and sector representatives will come together to discuss the next steps in establishing the new organisation.
“We are committed to working with partners to bring together a united, sector-led organisation that will ensure Cornwall remains a leading UK destination,” said Sarah Preece, cabinet member with responsibility for tourism at Cornwall Council.
“This survey offers all those representing the visitor economy the opportunity to tell us what is needed from a Destination Management Organisation to ensure Cornwall Council can support the sector to thrive. We want to make sure everyone’s voice is heard so it’s really important we hear from as many different parts of the sector as possible.”
Strong coordinated plan
Kevin Georgel, chief executive of St Austell Brewery, one of the businesses on the steering group, said: “As one of the region’s largest employers and a proud champion of Cornish hospitality, we need to work together to define what a strong, coordinated plan looks like for the future.
“Tourism remains the backbone of Cornwall’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and sustaining local businesses. The loss of Visit Cornwall comes at a time when the sector faces significant challenges — falling visitor numbers and rising costs.”
He added: “Engagement from all corners of the sector will be critical to building resilience and driving growth. We hope Cornwall Council will continue to play a vital role in this process, working alongside businesses to ensure our visitor economy thrives for generations to come.”
Katie Warren, speaking on behalf of the Cornwall Self-Catering Collective, said: “There has never been a more vital or opportune time for businesses to come together collectively and be a force of good for the tourism sector, which is a consistent backbone to Cornwall’s economy.
“With the creation this new body, we will have a clear marketing plan to promote Brand Cornwall, work together for sustainable, year-round tourism to help give job certainty, and represent all sector partners at a local level when it comes to future legislation.”
The survey can be completed here. The deadline for submission is 11th January, 2026.
