Kitzbühel – September 08, 2026 -- Kitzbühel Tourismus received the TIROLERIN Award in the category "Tourism & Regional Value Creation" at a gala in the Imperial Hofburg in Innsbruck, recognizing the destination's shift to a year-round tourism strategy. Managing Director Dr. Viktoria Veider-Walser accepted the award on behalf of the organization before more than 200 guests from business, culture and politics.
Jury cites brand relaunch and strategic repositioning as key drivers
Florian Neuner, head of industry and corporate communications at Tirol Werbung, praised Kitzbühel Tourismus in his laudatory speech for its consistent strategic development process, highlighting the multi-award-winning 2024 brand relaunch. The relaunch was built on five defined success patterns, a core service proposition and a clear positioning statement, forming the basis for Kitzbühel's long-term development as a contemporary, year-round destination.
Event portfolio spans elite sport, culture and B2B formats
Kitzbühel's calendar includes established fixtures such as the Hahnenkamm ski races and the Generali Open tennis tournament, alongside the Austrian Alpine Open, which will be staged in Kitzbühel for the first time in 2026 as part of the DP World Tour. The KURIER ROMY, Austria's national film and television award, returns to the town in November for the second consecutive year.
Veider-Walser said events such as the golf offering, the Austrian Alpine Open and the KURIER ROMY Gala are used to build national and international visibility, while formats like the Kitzbüheler Advent and PURA VIDA sustain local engagement throughout the year.
Award coincides with Veider-Walser's ten-year leadership anniversary
The recognition arrives as Dr. Viktoria Veider-Walser marks a decade at the helm of Kitzbühel Tourismus this week. She confirmed further announcements are planned, with October 10, 2026 set as a date for stakeholders to watch.
Thomas Brandtner and his team were also honored at the ceremony, receiving the award in the "Volunteering" category for their contribution to the Tyrol region.