Maikammer, November 2024 – From November 4 to 6, 2024, the Excellence Initiative of Sustainable Destinations hosted more than 40 representatives from its 29 partner destinations in the holiday region of the German Wine Route in Maikammer. This year’s meeting focused on “partner networks” and how to strategically strengthen and develop network collaboration in sustainability. The three-day event featured lively discussions, engaging workshops, and inspiring insights.
Foundations for successful network management
The event began with expert presentations and workshops featuring practical insights into successful partner networks. Key contributions came from co-host Nadine Schubert of the German Wine Route region and Nina Dahlhaus of Tourismus NRW e.V. Maike Berndt from the tourism consultancy dwif-Consulting emphasized the strategic importance of targeted stakeholder management for building networks and advancing sustainability efforts in destinations.
Participants collaborated in a creative workshop to develop concrete and innovative approaches to engaging stakeholders and motivating them for long-term involvement. Concepts such as one-on-one discussions on shuttle buses, “keyhole talks,” and regional breakfasts were proposed.
In line with the “learning from each other” approach, representatives from other networks were invited to share insights beyond the core group. Contributors included representatives from Alpine Pearls, the Partner Initiative Biosphere Reserve Swabian Alb, Gastwerk Südpfalz, and the Palatinate Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who shared their successful strategies and valuable experiences.
Cilia Mayer, coordinator of the Excellence Initiative Sustainable Destinations, summarized the event’s findings: “The discussions highlighted that clear network goals and active coordination are critical for success. Equally important is selecting partners strategically; it’s not about involving everyone, but about engaging those who can strengthen the network and advance its objectives over the long term.”
EU Regulations and their impact on networks
Another key agenda item was the impact of new EU regulations, particularly the Green Claims Directive. Laura Schmidt from the sustainability and creative consultancy reCET explained how networks can prepare for these guidelines and integrate them into their operations. She emphasized that the directive offers a valuable opportunity to enhance transparency and build consumer trust. For the sustainability-oriented destinations of the Excellence Initiative, this provides an avenue to clearly communicate their progress and reaffirm their position as pioneers in sustainable tourism.
From theory to practice: German Wine Route network meeting
After two days of intense exchanges and workshops on strategies and best practices for strengthening networks, the event concluded with the German Wine Route’s local network meeting with its partner enterprises. This practical session complemented the discussions by applying the approaches directly on-site. Tobias Kauf, Managing Director of Pfalz.Touristik, introduced the region’s strategy with a particular focus on sustainability, followed by a workshop on greenwashing, green claims, and certifications led by Dr. Andrea Möller of dwif-Consulting GmbH. The “Marketplace of Ideas” provided a space for networking and exchanges between enterprises, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the event.
Discovering the host region: Culture, history, and indulgence
In addition to professional discussions, the event offered participants the chance to explore the host region. Highlights included visits to the newly opened Tourist Information Center in Maikammer, nominated for the Rhineland-Palatinate Tourism Award 2024, and Hambach Castle, a symbol of German democracy. A regional wine tasting showcased the unique flavors of the area, while informal networking rounded out the experience, allowing participants to fully appreciate the diversity of the destination.
“The event in Maikammer clearly demonstrated the importance of strong partner networks for sustainable success in tourism,” reflected Nadine Schubert, Sustainability Manager of the German Wine Route and co-organizer. “The exchange of experiences and best practices was incredibly valuable for all involved.”
The Excellence Initiative will continue its focus on “partner networks” beyond the event, using the insights and ideas gathered to plan the next steps collaboratively.
About the Excellence Initiative of Sustainable Destinations
The Excellence Initiative of Sustainable Destinations is a partnership platform for destinations in Germany committed to sustainability. Its mission is to combine resources and ideas, exchange knowledge on equal footing, and collaboratively develop excellent solutions. Partners work together to overcome challenges, share best practices, and drive forward projects that promote sustainability in German tourism. The initiative is institutionally supported by TourCert gGmbH.
About the German Wine Route – A sustainable destination full of culture and indulgence
The German Wine Route stretches 85 kilometers from Bockenheim in the north to Schweigen-Rechtenbach in the south, offering a unique cultural landscape. Blending forests, vineyards, and vegetable fields, the region is dotted with castles, palaces, and award-winning hiking and cycling trails. Fine wine and regional specialties complete the experience.
Certified as a “Sustainable Destination” since 2020, the holiday region includes over 60 partner enterprises in gastronomy, accommodations, direct marketing, and winemaking, all working to shape the region’s future in a resource-efficient and sustainable way.
Tags
Cultural Heritage, Excellence Initiative, Green Claims Directive, Network Collaboration, Partner Networks, Regional Innovation, Stakeholder Management, Stakeholder Management in Sustainable Tourism, Sustainability Strategies, Sustainability Strategies in Tourism, Sustainable tourism
