In the shadow of ongoing cross-border travel woes and surging domestic tourism, Ontario’s tourism industry is stepping forward with what it says is a bold, sector-led plan to drive sustainable growth, attract investment, and unlock the full economic potential of the visitor economy and stakeholders – and stakeholders and those with vested interest are invited to “be part of the next chapter in Ontario’s tourism journey” via Zoom at the launch on Monday (Aug. 11, 10 a.m-12 pm. EST).
Following months of consultation with thousands of tourism stakeholders, “Forward Motion: A Strategic Playbook for Ontario’s Tourism Industry,” is designed to drive long-term growth, investment, and “collaboration across every corner of the province” while presenting a united vision for a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive visitor economy.
“It’s time to move from recovery to renewal and build a tourism future that reflects the full potential of Ontario’s people, places, and experiences,” says the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), adding, “It’s a plan for action, collaboration, and long-term growth – created at a time when Ontario needs it most.”
Supported by the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), the strategy was developed by the Travel & Tourism industry and reflects insights and input of tourism operators, sector leaders, and communities across the province
Why this matters
Tourism in Ontario is a $30+ billion engine that drives jobs, culture, and community. But today’s global uncertainty and intensifying competition demand focus and action to move beyond recovery to drive growth.
What to expect
- Overview of six strategic pillars that will guide the sector’s future:
-
- Attract More Visitors and Spending
- Expand Transportation Infrastructure
- Strengthen Workforce Resilience
- Facilitate Product Development & Capacity Investment
- Advance Practical Sustainability
- Foster Collaboration and LeadershiP
- Insights from industry leaders and strategy architects
- First wave of implementation projects and opportunities for collaboration
- Access to the full playbook and tactical roadmap
Key objectives
The strategy outlines bold, actionable objectives to grow and strengthen the sector, including:
- Attracting more international visitation
- Attracting investment to scale infrastructure, product, and experience development across Ontario
- Building a resilient tourism workforce through new training pipelines
Register
Ontario’s tourism industry and supplier community are invited to attend the launch event; register in advance HERE.
If this article was shared with you by a friend or colleague, you may enjoy receiving your own copy of Travel Industry Today with the latest travel news and reviews each weekday morning. It’s absolutely free – just CLICK HERE.