News Summary
The 2025 Besties Awards, hosted by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater, honored outstanding contributions to the hospitality industry in St. Petersburg. A record turnout of over 280 nominees showcased businesses across 34 categories, promoting community engagement. Russ Kimball received special recognition for 50 years in tourism, reflecting the region’s thriving hospitality sector, which welcomed over 15.4 million visitors in FY 2024 and generated over $11.2 billion in economic impact.
St. Petersburg, Florida – Visit St. Pete-Clearwater recognized outstanding contributions in the local hospitality industry with the announcement of the 2025 Besties Awards winners on Thursday. The ceremony was hosted at the Floridian Social in downtown St. Petersburg, attracting a record turnout of over 280 nominees, marking the highest participation in the event’s history.
The Besties Awards celebrate excellence in 34 categories, encompassing various facets of the hospitality sector, including dining, lodging, entertainment, and attractions. Residents, visitors, and fans were given the opportunity to vote for their favorite businesses, underscoring community engagement and support for local establishments.
Among the many recognitions at the ceremony, Russ Kimball, CEO of the Sheraton Sand Key Resort, was honored for his remarkable 50 years of service in the local tourism industry. His significant contributions were recognized with a custom-made award crafted by Zen Glass Studio, showcasing both his professional commitment and the esteem of his peers in the field.
Tourism continues to thrive in Pinellas County, with over 15.4 million visitors welcomed in the fiscal year 2024. This influx of visitors has not only enriched the local culture but also had a substantial impact on the county’s economy. The tourism sector generated an economic impact exceeding $11.2 billion, highlighting its importance as a driving force in the region.
In terms of accommodation revenue, the county saw earnings surpassing $1.6 billion. Additionally, the local hospitality sector contributed over $95 million in hotel bed taxes to the county’s revenue streams. These figures reflect the robust nature of the hospitality industry and its ongoing growth, indicating a strong demand for tourism-related services.
The tourism sector is vital to the local economy, supporting more than 100,000 jobs across various businesses and services within Pinellas County. The ripple effect of tourism not only enhances the livelihoods of those directly involved in the industry but also benefits numerous ancillary businesses and community projects.
For those interested in learning more about the nominees and winners of the Besties Awards, a comprehensive list and additional information are available in the latest edition of the Gulf to Bay Destination Magazine, which can be accessed for free at VisitSPC.com.
The Besties Awards underscore a collaborative spirit among businesses and the community, celebrating the achievements that contribute to making St. Pete-Clearwater a preferred destination for both residents and tourists alike. With such a thriving tourism industry, the local hospitality sector is poised for continued growth and innovation in the years to come.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Visit St. Pete-Clearwater Honors Top Hospitality Businesses
- Wikipedia: Hospitality Industry
- Visit St. Pete-Clearwater: Partners
- Google Search: St Petersburg Florida tourism
- I Love the Burg: Best of St. Pete-Clearwater
- Encyclopedia Britannica: St. Petersburg, Florida
- TBB Business Magazine: Visit St. Pete-Clearwater Names Chief Marketing Officer
- Google News: Besties Awards
