PIERRE, S.D. – After an extensive Request for Proposal process, the South Dakota Department of Tourism has chosen Sioux Falls-based Lawrence & Schiller and Kansas City-based MMGY Global as its marketing firms.

“Both firms have pronounced strengths in specific areas, and we’re fortunate to be able to contract with both,” said Jim Hagen, secretary of the Department of Tourism. “Ultimately, working with these agencies will be of great benefit to the Department, the visitor industry and the state.”

Lawrence & Schiller’s contract, up to $5 million, includes development of the Department’s overall creative strategy, production of traditional media, such as broadcast and print, and traditional media planning and placement.

“We are very proud of the success we have shared with South Dakota Tourism and are excited to continue our partnership together,” said Scott Lawrence, President and CEO of Lawrence & Schiller.

MMGY Global’s contract, up to $2.5 million, includes digital marketing strategy and placement, market research and communications strategy.

“When you consider the iconic status of South Dakota as a tourism destination, it is a marketer’s dream to be in a position to support and grow that top-shelf status,” said Clayton Reid, CEO of MMGY Global. “Our entire team looks forward to working with the visitor industry in the state to do just that.”

The length of each contract is three years, with the option of two, one-year renewals.

“Tourism is an important economic driver in South Dakota. By choosing the firms that can help us grow the industry and grow visitor spending most effectively, we are choosing the firms that will help us generate the most tax dollars for the state,” continued Hagen. “We are very excited about moving forward with these agencies.”

The review process began in March 2012 with issuance of the official Request for Proposal through the State of South Dakota Procurement Website. Twelve firms from across the country submitted written proposals, from which eight were chosen to give oral presentations in Pierre.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism is comprised of Tourism, the South Dakota Arts Council, and the South Dakota State Historical Society. The Department is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.

-30-