NEW: Lila Delman Real Estate Hosts Economic Summit

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Wednesday, February 16, 2011

GoLocalProv Business Team

A spirited roundtable discussion on fostering concurrent real estate, tourism, and economic development spearheaded by Lila Delman Real Estate took place at the real estate firm’s Newport office last week, one of three branches in Rhode Island. Principal Melanie Delman welcomed Nick Churton and Annette Reeve of Mayfair International Realty, London; Keith Stokes, Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC); Katharine Flynn, Director of Business Development for the RIEDC, and Newport Councilwoman Kate Leonard, who also serves as a Lila Delman agent.

Common Ground

Stokes and the group discussed the historical commonalities between New England—Newport specifically—and England, and what this region of the country offers. He cited the area’s longtime capability to draw quality visitors which include those attracted by local history, educational offerings, sailing, and guests who ultimately stay for longer visits and have the potential to invest in real estate in Newport and Rhode Island.

The principals of Mayfair pointed out that Boston tourism has engaged in a robust marketing campaign in the United Kingdom which Newport and it’s surrounding communities can capitalize on by making British tourists aware of the city's proximity to Boston. "People will travel around the world to do certain kinds of tours, such as flower shows and gardens," said Churton. Stokes pointed to historic attractions including Trinity Church (founded in 1698), Touro Synagogue (the oldest synagogue in the country), Touro Synagogue, and the famed gardens at many of Newport’s mansions, plus the allure of local vineyards throughout the state and the city's famed superior sailing facilities. Stokes likened winning a great sailing race in Newport, longtime home of the America's Cup, to winning an Olympics in Athens.

Looking Ahead

Brainstorming sessions addressed creating an app for mobile devices for Rhode Island tourism, which can be cross-marketed through tourism and through Lila Delman Real Estate’s London Office. It was also agreed that social networking would be the marketing tool of the future. “We are honored to have been a part of this discussion and are looking forward to working with the RIEDC to help promote Rhode Island to our international audience,” said Melanie Delman.