Support Local Tourism Businesses and Retailers

Pembroke, Ontario: In light of the recent announcement that the province of Ontario has moved into a modified Step 2 of the Roadmap to Reopen, the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) is asking for support on behalf of local businesses. Businesses that rely on travelers, large group gatherings, in person dining, classes and adventures have been and continue to suffer the effects of closures and restrictions. To help counter-act some of the negative effects of these measures, the OVTA is offering several tips on how the community can support local tourism businesses, retailers and other hard hit businesses:

• Plan a stay-cation for March Break by purchasing tickets to a local ski hill, booking a local hotel or resort
• Set some summertime goals by buying gift certificates for a local whitewater rafting trip or a round of golf
• Order takeout from a local restaurant
• Buy a gift certificate to a local movie theatre
• Take advantage of online offerings from local gyms, yoga studios and fitness providers

The OVTA recognizes that social media is one way the community is staying connected. As you take some of these steps to support local, show the community how by posting on Instagram and / or Facebook. Tag @ottawavalleytravel as well as the business(s) you are supporting for a chance to win a signature Ottawa Valley G’Day toque. Only those who tag @ottawavalleytravel will be eligible to win.

The OVTA is the destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 200 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and outfitters, accommodation, food, beverage and retail establishments, artists and galleries, municipalities and community organizations, as well as media and industry suppliers. The OVTA is supported by the County of Renfrew, Renfrew County municipalities and the City of Pembroke.

For more information, contact:

Alastair Baird
Manager, Economic Development Services, Manager, Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA), Manager, Enterprise Renfrew County (ERC)
613.735.0091 /abaird@countyofrenfrew.on.ca

Erin Norris
Tourism Industry Relations and Digital Marketing Coordinator
613.732.4364 / enorris@countyofrenfrew.on.ca