MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release, February 18, 2022
VISIT SUMMERLAND RECEIVES MUCH NEEDED SUPPORT FROM DISTRICT
Summerland, B.C.: Visit Summerland’s Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) and Visitor Services currently provided by the Summerland Chamber of Commerce under the umbrella name of “Visit Summerland” is getting a welcome boost of support from the District of Summerland.
Thanks to the successful grant-in-aid application submitted by the Chamber in late 2021, the Chambers newly formed Tourism Advisory Committee (TAC) will now work to develop a new Tourism Strategic Plan for Visit Summerland to take effect in early Spring 2022.
Chamber staff submitted the request for funding in October 2021 after completing their Chamberwalk visits to over 115 local businesses. One key message that was heard from tourism sector businesses was the need for a stronger tourism presence and direction of tourism activities and services. Historically the visitor services and destination marketing activities were developed as part of the bigger Summerland Chamber strategic planning process. The grant-in-aid application asked for a separate Tourism Strategic Plan to be developed with the support of the newly created TAC.
“This is a pivotal time for Summerland Chamber as we work to complete the restructure of our organization, it was important that the work being done under Visit Summerland was not lost through the process.” Says Chamber Vice-President, Erin Hayman.
“We are thankful to the District and Council for supporting our vision to bring a plan together that is directly focused on Tourism in Summerland. Now more than ever, we need to ensure our efforts are reflective of the needs of the local tourism industry and that our messaging is clear, consistent, relevant and meets the targets we set.” adds Hayman.
“Council was pleased to support the Chamber in their application for grant funding to support their Tourism Strategic Plan,” said Mayor Toni Boot. “We understand how important it is to have a plan or guiding document and look forward to hearing what comes out of the Tourism Advisory Committee’s work. This new direction is a win not only Summerland’s tourism sector but for all residents; Council thanks the Chamber board for undertaking this initiative.”
The Summerland Chamber board strongly supported the re-alignment of the tourism DMO and Visitor Services strategic direction with the creation of the Tourism Advisory Committee in early January 2022. The committee’s mandate is to provide advise and guidance on the delivery of tourism services in Summerland. The development of the TAC saw the coming together of key industry leaders, eager to share their ideas and expertise to help shape the future of tourism in Summerland and bring guidance and strength to the organization.
Currently the committee has 11 members and is scheduled to begin working on the new Tourism Strategic Plan as early as Feb 28th, 2022.
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About Summerland Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1908, the Summerland Chamber of Commerce operates as a not for profit corporation representing the over 700 businesses in the community. The Chamber works collaboratively with stakeholder businesses, organizations and all three levels of government to fulfill its mandate.
For more information contact:
Erin Hayman, Chamber Vice President
Summerland Chamber of Commerce
