Growth highlights strong global momentum as European destinations deepen engagement with DI’s expanding international network
Destinations International (DI), the world’s largest and most respected association representing destination organisations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), today announced record growth in its European membership, marking a major milestone in the organisation’s continued global expansion.
More than 30 members, representing cities, regions and countries, have joined since the launch of DI’s European membership programme at the beginning of 2025. Designed to deliver tailored resources, strategic engagement and cross-Atlantic collaboration opportunities for destination organisations, membership provides access to industry-leading research, professional development, global networking and customised support aligned with the unique needs of European destinations. Expedia Group Media Solutions, MMGY Global and Granicus Destinations are founding partners of DI’s development in Europe.
“This milestone reflects the growing recognition among European destinations of the value of global collaboration and shared learning,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “As our membership expands, we are strengthening a truly global community committed to advancing destination stewardship, innovation and long-term community vitality.”
Central to DI’s European strategy is its commitment to building meaningful regional engagement through initiatives such as the European Stewardship Council, a select group of European members serving as advisors and ambassadors to help guide the organisation’s growth and ensure relevance within the European market.
Jane Cunningham, Director of European Engagement at Destinations International, emphasised the significance of this momentum: “Our growing European membership reflects a shared commitment among destination organisations to collaborate more deeply, exchange knowledge and address common challenges. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected global community that supports sustainable and resilient destinations.”
The organisation’s expanding footprint in Europe is also reflected in its growing portfolio of global convenings. In 2025, Destinations International hosted its first Global Leaders Forum in Dublin, Ireland, bringing together senior destination leaders from around the world for strategic dialogue and collaboration. Building on that success, the next Global Leaders Forum is scheduled to take place September 22-24, 2026, in Geneva, Switzerland, further reinforcing DI’s commitment to fostering high-level international engagement.
Destinations International’s European membership programme continues to provide a strong platform for cross-Atlantic knowledge exchange, bringing together destination leaders from around the world to share insights, develop solutions and strengthen the global travel and tourism ecosystem.
With this record growth, Destinations International reinforces its role as a global leader in supporting destination organisations and advancing the industry through collaboration, research, education and innovation.