The new memorial website, according to the jury, effectively combines historical content with modern technologies such as an interactive timeline and the use of artificial intelligence. Experts also appreciated the innovative design, creative elements, and user-friendliness. The development involved creators from Zlín, MarketSoul.
“I am pleased that alongside digital marketing experts from the WebTop100 competition, our work was also recognized by tourism specialists. We created the new memorial website specifically for tourists and residents of Zlín, aiming to make our communication in the online world more attractive and clearer. For a similar reason, we also supported the development of the Baťa Region project on behalf of the city of Zlín, which today presents a broad Baťa theme from the perspective of tourism on a single common platform. The recognition from both institutions shows that such collaboration is a step in the right direction,” said Martina Hladíková, Deputy Mayor.
The Baťa Region project, which connects places with Baťa themes, was deemed a unique comprehensive effort by the jury, creating the region's image, having great potential for the future, and not solely focusing on Zlín. “Our goal is to connect places linked to Baťa not only throughout the Zlín Region but also beyond. This award mainly belongs to our partners in the project; without their support and collaboration, the outcome would never have been so successful. This award is primarily for them,” says Jana Tkadlecová, manager of the Zlín and Luhačovice destination.
A great starting point for exploring the Baťa region is 14|15 BAŤŮV INSTITUT, home to the Museum of Southeast Moravia with the largest collection of footwear in Central Europe. “The Baťa region is fascinating in that it is possible to gain information and experiences in many touristically interesting sites that were uniquely influenced by the activities of Baťa and their successors. Nowhere else in the world is there anything like this to see.” This is one of the reasons why the Museum of Southeast Moravia in Zlín got involved in the project, said the institution's director Pavel Hrubec.
The expert jury particularly appreciated that the project also engages the business sector. “The Baťa region is a great project that we perceive very positively. It has succeeded in connecting individual entities and creating a unified brand that encompasses the marketing communication of the entire region. This is a significant step forward and deserves recognition and thanks.” said Michal Vala from the Zlín Department Store.
The project is also significantly supported by the mayor of Zlín, Jiří Korec. “The heart of the entire Baťa region is the city of Zlín; I was very pleased with the news of the success of both projects, and we will continue to support them,” stated the mayor.
The Eastern Moravia Tourism Center is also collaborating on the project. Its director Zuzana Vojtová commented on the achievement of this significant award: “I am proud that such successful projects are emerging in our region, which have a nationwide impact.”
A significant ally of the Baťa region is the Tomáš Baťa Foundation, which not only cares for the legacy of the brilliant entrepreneur but also actively participates in its promotion. “In the spirit of Baťa's famous saying, it still holds true that anything you want, you can, and we are glad to have been part of the project from the beginning,” said director Gabriela Končitíková.
The Baťa region includes the unique industry of the city of Zlín and summer activities on the Baťa Canal. Unique functionalist buildings and stylish dinners in Baťa buildings. It is a way to wander among brick houses, explore technical wonders, or ride a bike along unfinished railways. In the form of so-called small Zlín, Baťa technologies, architecture, management systems, and housing have also been implemented in Třebíč, Sezimovo Ústí, the Slovak city of Partizánske, and another thirty places around the world.
You can find all Baťa sites at the online directory batuvregion.cz.
We invite you to explore!
