Marc Sapoznik has helped rebrand Rancho Cordova as a destination and secured a 28% regional revenue growth in the past three years. Courtesy photo

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - The Cordova Community Council and the Rancho Cordova Area Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon Aug. 16 at the Rancho Cordova City Hall featured Visit Rancho Cordova President and CEO Marc Sapoznik.

Sapoznik, who has more than 20 years of experience in the tourism industry, detailed the strides that Rancho Cordova has made over the years and explained what Visit Rancho Cordova does and how it impacts the city.

“Marc Sapoznik has helped rebrand Rancho Cordova as a destination and secured a 28% regional revenue growth in the past three years,” said Rancho Cordova Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Diann Rogers.

Sapoznik explained that Visit Rancho Cordova operates as a Destination Management Organization (DMO) focusing on promoting the city as an attractive location for visitors, residents and businesses. The organization uses various methods to promote the city, including sponsorships, merchandise, networking, advertisements and newsletters. One key funding source for Visit Rancho Cordova is the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID), which allows the organization to operate without relying on city or county tax dollars.

“When it comes to success, it's ‘we.’ We get to do things as a team and work with partners from across the region,” Sapoznik said. “All of our team members are focused on promoting Rancho Cordova as a place people want to be.”

Promoting tourism in Rancho Cordova is crucial for economic development and revenue generation. By attracting visitors, the city boosts local businesses such as hotels and restaurants. This influx of tourism also creates and sustains jobs within the city, rather than outsourcing them elsewhere.

“Tourism is a $1.3-trillion industry in the United States,” Sapoznik said, citing the industry's critical role in driving revenue, creating jobs and enhancing visitor experiences. “In the past year, Rancho Cordova saw an impact of $315 million from tourism, with 875,000 visitors exploring the city.”

What draws people to Rancho Cordova? According to Sapoznik, top attractions include major events such as the Capital Airshow, the Fourth of July parade and the International Festival. Conferences and conventions such as the National League of Cities and the Mermaid Convention, recreational activities at places including the equestrian center and the American River, and visits to friends and family also play a significant role in attracting visitors.

When questioned about what the city is missing, Sapoznik mentioned amenities and infrastructures such as convention and entertainment spaces, which would be helpful to accommodate bigger events.

“More community involvement is super helpful,” Sapoznik concluded. “Having support from the community and the residents is essential.”

The next luncheon will be hosted on Sept. 20 at Rancho Cordova City Hall, 2729 Prospect Park Drive. For more information, go online to cordovacouncil.org/the-rancho-cordova-luncheon.