RTO Product Development Workshop

October 6–8, 2025 | Franklin, Tennessee
Presented by Travel South USA & Tennessee Sounds Perfect

Where Collaboration Meets Innovation

Join us in Franklin, TN — just outside vibrant Nashville — for the 2025 RTO Product Development Workshop, a one-of-a-kind industry gathering designed to advance international tourism across the American South.

Born from a highly successful pilot session in 2024 with ATI/Drive America, this year’s workshop builds on that momentum. Travel South Champion City Destinations and state tourism leaders will connect directly with eight to ten top Receptive Tour Operators (RTOs) to spark dialogue, develop products, and expand international marketing strategies.

 What to Expect

This intimate, curated experience is tailored for Travel South USA Champion City Destinations and high-value Receptive Tour Operators who feature Southern Tours. Over two and a half days, we’ll dive deep into:

  • Product development sessions focused on international markets
  • Strategic discussions on marketing placement and cooperative training
  • Exploration of unique accommodations and under-the-radar destinations
  • Creative collaboration with key RTO partners

Together, we aim to increase awareness and drive visitor spending toward a shared goal: $10 billion in international tourism spending in the South.

 Benefits of Participation

  • Access to eight to ten high value  RTO tour operators
  • Interactive workshops, education, and networking opportunities
  • Discounted lodging at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
  • Meals and amenities: 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners, and breaks
  • Transportation provided between host hotel and the off site venues

 Cost & Registration

$895 per person (plus travel expenses)
Space is limited and assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

Deadline to register: September 1, 2025 — or until sold out.

🔗 Didn’t receive your registration link? Contact Angelica De Stefano, [email protected].

 Host Hotel

Franklin Marriott Cool Springs
700 Cool Springs Blvd,
Franklin, TN 37067

Click here to make your reservation
Deadline to make hotel reservations is September 15, 2025


Let’s Shape the Future Together

Be part of a transformative event that strengthens our colony, buzzes with partnerships, drips with innovation, and boosts international visitation to the South. We can’t wait to welcome you to Franklin!

RTO Product Development Workshop Schedule

Monday, October 6, 2025

5:00PM – 9:00 PM

Opening Dinner

Franklin, TN
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October 6 October 6 Opening Dinner Franklin, TN

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

8:30 AM

Breakfast

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October 7 October 7 Breakfast

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM

Welcome from Tennessee Tourism & Visit Franklin

Commissioner Mark Ezell & President/CEO Maureen Haley Thornton

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October 7 October 7 Welcome from Tennessee Tourism & Visit Franklin Commissioner Mark Ezell & President/CEO Maureen Haley Thornton

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM

What’s the Buzz in the America South and Why RTO’s are important part of Our Colony

Travel South USA, President/CEO Liz Bittner

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October 7 October 7 What’s the Buzz in the America South and Why RTO’s are important part of Our Colony Travel South USA, President/CEO Liz Bittner

10:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Product Development Breakouts

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October 7 October 7 Product Development Breakouts

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Lunch

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October 7 October 7 Lunch

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Field Trip to SouthHall Bees

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October 7 October 7 Field Trip to SouthHall Bees

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Visit Franklin Downtown – Dinner and Fun

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October 7 October 7 Visit Franklin Downtown – Dinner and Fun

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Morning Departures

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Morning Departures