The ongoing work of Hastings County’s Economic and Tourism Development Office is paying off.
Manager Andrew Redden told the county’s Planning and Development Committee Tuesday that they are
reaching more people online than ever before thanks to content on social media channels, video platforms and
more traditional methods.
reaching more people online than ever before thanks to content on social media channels, video platforms and
more traditional methods.
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“Compared to 2023 there was a huge 45% increase in the amount of people we attracted to our website through marketing materials distributed at trade shows.”
One of the big trade shows is the Bancroft Gemboree.
Meanwhile, the office dealt with 128 business inquiries leading to an estimated $1.1 million in investment by business owners who were directly assisted by the county.
On another front, Hastings County was busier with tourists last year than in 2023.
Redden said the number of overnight visitors increased by around 2.5% to a total of over 784,000.
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“According to the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, that amount of visitation and overnight stays is estimated to contribute $3.2 million toward our municipal tax base.”
Credit and debit card data shows spending on travel, entertainment, and retail services rose 18% last year to a total of around $183 million.
See the entire year-end report here.
