Utah launches walking-based fam trip incentive

Visit Utah’s Walker Tracker step challenge is calling for agents to use a fitness device or pedometer to track an average of 6,000 steps a day from 4 January to accumulate at least 252,282 steps in time for 14 March.

By registering for the programme, syncing their device with the Visit Utah website or dedicated Walker Tracker app, and achieving the required number of steps, agents will be entered into a draw to win one of multiple places on a fam trip to the US state on a 2021 date yet to be confirmed.

As they hit certain step milestones along the way, agents will receive educational emails and video links to improve their knowledge of Utah’s key tourism sites and help them gain selling tips.

“Our Walker Tracker educational programme is aimed at raising awareness of Utah as a touring destination among agents, because many will be familiar with the ‘Mighty 5’ national parks but we have state parks and unspoiled Alpine landscapes in the north that are just as spectacular,” said Jenni Bridgman, UK trade director for Visit Utah.

Photo by Matt Morgan

Photo by Tom Till

“It’s designed to inspire agents, help them understand how to put together a Utah itinerary and give them the confidence to recommend our state to their clients,” she added.

To ensure as many agents as possible can take part in the incentive, the Visit Utah website and Walker Tracker app features a converter tool so agents who have a wide range of fitness regimes can convert their exercise into steps. The programme also offers the option for steps to be uploaded manually.

“For those who are lucky enough to win a fam trip place, the first-hand experience of Utah will be invaluable”, promised Bridgman.

“They will get a better understanding of the tremendous variety of the state, from the mountains in the north to the red-rock landscapes in the south, the travel distances involved and how their clients can make the most of their visit by combining national parks with lesser-known areas.”

“They will also see some of the opportunities they have to upsell by recommending guided tours and off-road experiences.”

Bridgman expects 2021 to be “a big year” for Utah, explaining that agents will have the opportunity to capitalise on the naturally socially distanced environment the state’s wilderness provides.

As well as the grand prize of the fam trip, Visit Utah will be providing spot prizes and additional mini-challenges during the campaign period.