PEMBROKE — On Wednesday, January, 24th, Ottawa Valley tourism operators and suppliers and service providers are invited to participate in the first ever Ottawa Valley Tourism Trading Post. Hosted by the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA), in partnership with Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO), the goal of the Tourism Trading Post is to foster mutually beneficial partnerships between tourism operators and suppliers.
Taking place at the Bonnechere Bakery & Bistro in Renfrew, the Ottawa Valley Tourism Trading Post will be a speed networking event. Participants will rotate through a series of 10 minute meetings, during which they can see if there is a potential fit for working together and creating a new partnership.
Tourism operators will benefit from meeting face-to-face with some of the most creative and engaged suppliers and service providers in the Ottawa Valley. This event will allow them to see how partnering with local entrepreneurs can help enhance the tourism experience they provide visitors to our region.
As for suppliers and service providers, the Tourism Trading Post will be an incredible opportunity for them to dust off their ‘elevator pitch’ and develop meaningful, and profitable, partnerships with some of the largest tourism operators in the Ottawa Valley.
“The idea of the Ottawa Valley Tourism Trading Post came out of a discussion with one of our tourism operators who wished to enhance her relationships with local businesses,” explains Lauren McIllfaterick, OVTA Communications Coordinator. “The goal of the Ottawa Valley Tourism Trading Post is to provide a platform for tourism operators and local suppliers to start the conversation about working together. We want participants to be up-front and honest about their expectations. We believe that, ultimately, the visitor will benefit from harmonious and complimentary partnerships between our operators and local suppliers.”
Registration in the Tourism Trading Post is free, however space is limited. Potential participants will be asked to share what characteristics they are looking for in a business partnership. This will help create an efficient networking event, and help ensure that any partnerships that develop will be positive experiences for both parties.
The Ottawa Valley Tourism Trading Post is a free event and begins at 9:30 am and will run until 12:30 pm. Participants will be encouraged to move the conversation to the café section of the Bonnechere Bakery & Bistro following the event to continue any promising discussions over lunch. Those who stay for soup and sandwich will be able to enjoy a complimentary dessert.
The registration deadline is Friday, January 19. Space is limited. Tourism operators are encouraged to register early to allow time for event organizers to ensure a good balance of operators and qualified suppliers.
For more information, and to register, visit www.ottawavalley.travel, email [email protected] or phone 613.732.4364.
The Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 225 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodation, dining and retail establishments, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers. The OVTA is proudly supported by the County of Renfrew, Renfrew County municipalities and the City of Pembroke.
