July 21, 2000

Fifth Annual Tour of Midland, Penetanguishene and Area Bed & Breakfasts

Five years ago the North Simcoe Business Development Centre (NSBDC) embarked upon a comprehensive Small Business Week Program, which focused on different business sectors active in their area.  To address a shortage of accommodations, they showcased the existing Bed & Breakfast establishments to raise their profile and to encourage others to think about entering this worthwhile endeavour.

 NSBDC also recognized the need to promote the area’s artists and artisans and decided to showcase one or more at each of the B & B’s.  Five years after the project was initiated, the area B & B’s have formed an association to develop marketing materials, joint tour packages and advertising materials.  Bookings are up significantly for all the B & B’s that participate in the tour and many participants can directly relate increased wedding traffic, family reunion and school reunion traffic to their exposure on the tour.  There has also been a marked increase in the number of new B & B’s; in fact, a number of people who were guests on early tours have now started their own B & B’s.  Other local tourism operations have developed packages with a number of the B & B operators and hotels are now referring their overflow guests.  Overall, a bond of mutual respect, cooperation and trust has developed among a group that at first saw themselves as competitors.  They have now carved out unique niches for themselves and work well together in a co-operative environment.