Latest news with #TWEPI
CTV News
4 days ago
- Business
- CTV News
TWEPI hopes domestic visitors will fill gap
The head of Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) says Americans are still coming to the area, but this summer has been 'softer' when it comes to tourism. TWEPI Chief Executive Officer Gordon Orr says 33 per cent of visitation comes from the U.S., from Michigan and Ohio, out of the 5.7 million people who come here annually. Orr says so far this summer, the market has slowed, primarily from the Detroit area and Ohio. 'Our tunnel traffic is down a little bit, and our hotel occupancy is down a little bit, so it's been a little bit softer. Where we're hoping that gap will be closed is where the domestic visitation comes in and the local campaign comes in,' he says. Earlier this year, TWEPI launched its largest-ever multi-pronged advertising campaign to attract visitors to the region that included U.S. advertising campaigns along with a focus on the southwestern corridor into the Greater Toronto Area to generate greater visitation. It was launched, along with a local campaign, following the trade war and other policies initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump, which resulted in reduced travel between Canada and the U.S., with people on this side of the border considering staycations throughout Ontario and Canada in a show of patriotism. Orr says there are no alarm bells at this point. 'There's a lot of summer left, so we're hoping August will certainly be strong as well. Weather plays a big part in that, the economy plays a big part in that, and patriotism plays a big part in that as well,' he says. 'I know our friends in the U.S. do want to come and support Canada, and they know the tourism experiences are found right across an international border.' He added, when the economy is tough, people tighten their wallets. 'The Americans have softened up, for sure,' said Orr. 'They're not coming over as much as they were; the tunnel traffic supports that, and our hotel stats show that,' he says. 'At the end of the day with the domestic and the stay local campaign and support local, I think we're going to be okay.' According to Orr, they're noticing that the booking windows are also shorter this summer, meaning that people aren't booking as far out but instead closer to the time they're looking to visit or attend an event. TWEPI's summer season is measured between the May 24 Victoria Day long weekend and Labour Day weekend in early September. — Rusty Thomson/AM800 News
CTV News
16-07-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Kingsville says no to municipal accommodation tax
A municipal accommodation tax (MAT) will not be coming to Kingsville, for now at least. Administration presented a report to council Monday night, recommending the town inform Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) that they would not be moving forward with a MAT. Over the course of the spring, TWEPI visited each municipality pitching the idea of implementing a MAT on short-term rentals (STRs) and hotels. The revenue, brought in by visitors, would be split 50/50 between the municipality and TWEPI. Currently, Windsor charges a MAT at six per cent. In their report, Kingsville administration cited concerns over unknown factors, such as the full cost of administering the program, enforcement responsibilities, and lack of clarity surrounding how TWEPI will use the funds for the town. TWEPI suggested that the City of Windsor administer the program, however administration was concerned that there was no certainty on the fees that Windsor would charge for the service, and no confirmation about who would take enforcement action against STRs that do not remit the tax revenue. Resident Tony spoke at the meeting and said he rents out his cottage and was against the implementation of the MAT. 'Let's not add to the problem, more costs to the tourism industry, particularly in the form of a new MAT will only drive visitors to more affordable areas,' he said. Resident Les said he previously lived in Banff for 22 years and served on a tourism council. He said he saw firsthand how a MAT could be beneficial and asked council to reconsider at a later date. 'When tourism numbers are down, there's never been a more important time to consider finding other streams of revenue to try to help us promote Kingsville as a destination,' he said. Council heard that public consultations were held and sentiment was overwhelmingly opposed to implementing a MAT. Administration said it does not believe the revenue-share model proposed by TWEPI is the only option, or perhaps the best option, for Kingsville. Councillor Sheri Lowrie joined other councillors who weren't completely against the tax but wanted to explore it at a later time. 'There's just too many unknowns, too many unanswered questions, so again I just come back to at this time,' Lowrie said. 'I hope to see something come back in the future when we're possibly ready, but we have to let the short-term rentals roll out, let's let that happen, let's grow tourism, and then see if there's an appetite for this later.' LaSalle, Tecumseh , Essex , Amherstburg , Lakeshore and Leamington have not yet decided if they will implement a MAT as they await reports from their staff. TWEPI is asking to be informed of decisions by Aug. 31, 2025. - Written by Dustin Coffman/AM800 News.
CTV News
03-07-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Pop-up farmers market celebrates local food, new partnership in Essex
A new partnership aimed at supporting local growers and producers in Windsor-Essex is being celebrated Thursday with a pop-up farmers market in downtown Essex. Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) and Libro Credit Union are teaming up to strengthen the W.E. Heart Local program — a collaborative initiative with the Essex County Federation of Agriculture promoting farm-to-table experiences, farmers' markets, roadside stands, and local food producers. The market, taking place at Libro's Essex branch at 147 Talbot St. N., runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pop-up farmers market A pop-up farmers market in downtown Essex, Ont., on Thursday, July 3, 2025. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor) Weather permitting, the event will feature several W.E. Heart Local partners, including Raymont's Berries, Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast, Simpson's Orchards and Denver's Homestead. Organizers say the initiative aims to encourage both residents and tourists to explore the region's agricultural offerings through the W.E. Heart Local Digital Pass, a free membership-based program that includes more than 60 participating businesses and attractions. The digital pass provides users with incentives such as monthly giveaways, exclusive offers and recipes that highlight the area's agricultural bounty. 'We really want to make people know about W.E. Heart Local, but W.E. Heart Local is a year long program to promote Farm Fresh,' said Jason Toner, Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Tourism Windsor Essex. 'We have growers and producers pushing our product all year long. So it's a program that you can learn about our growers and producers and explore now throughout the summer when it's peak season, but really into the winter and early spring when we have other options to explore.' For more information, visit or connect with Tourism Windsor Essex online.
CTV News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
What to do on Canada Day in Windsor-Essex
If you're looking for something to do this Canada Day, Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) has you covered with a full guide. The big holiday is quickly approaching on Tuesday. Here's what you can expect: Parades and family activities If you're looking to go watch a parade or do something family friendly, there are multiple happening in the region. Amherstburg Canada Day celebration: The town will hold a 5-kilometre run/walk/wheel, there will also be free admission and demonstrations at Fort Malden National Historic Site, mighty machines will be in Toddy Jones Park, hockey with the Amherstburg Admirals, face painting and rec games, food trucks, a Big Wiggle concert in King's Navy Yard Park, and fireworks over the water. Windsor Canada Day parade: The parade will run down Ouellette Avenue in downtown Windsor, beginning at 11 a.m. Canada Day treats will also be passed out along the route. Tecumseh Canada Day celebration: From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., families can partake in a family picnic and listen to live music at Lakewood Park. Children's entertainment and games will be at McAuliffe Park from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and swimming will take place at Tecumseh Leisure Pool from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. After swimming, a Tecumseh Thunder baseball game will begin at 7:30 p.m. at Bert Lacasse Ballpark. LaSalle Canada Day celebration: This free event will see families gather at LaSalle Landing from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. You can expect buskers, bubble shows, face painting, live music, roaming characters, food trucks, yard games for all ages, and a drone show at 10 p.m. Upgrade your wardrobe with Canadian brands If you're looking for the perfect Canada Day outfit, these local businesses are a good way to support Canadian: Whiskeyjack Boutique Rare Apparel Southwest Shores BB Branded and the United Way have launched a limited edition YQG strong t-shirt Canadian eats Looking for a meal to celebrate all things Canada? Here are some options: Smoke's Poutinerie Windsor Beavertails in Amherstburg Windsor-style pizza at local shops Wine made at local wineries, such as Pelee Island Winery, Cooper's Hawk Vineyards, Viewpointe Estate Winery, North 42 Degrees Estate Winery Beer and spirits made local, such as Walkerville Brewery, Wolfhead Distillery, and Banded Goose Brewing Canada Day stock photo Source: ~UserGI15613517/iStock via Getty Images Plus. (~UserGI15613517/Getty Images) Free admission at Parks Canada If you would like to connect with nature, you can get free admission at Point Pelee National Park and Fort Malden National Historic Site until Sept. 2. More local holiday fun If you're looking for more options to celebrate Canada Day, here are some more ideas:
CTV News
24-06-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Invest WindsorEssex names Gordon Orr as CEO, serving dual roles
Invest WindsorEssex has named Gorden Orr as its Chief Executive Officer. Orr currently serves as the CEO of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) and will continue in a dual role for both organizations. Orr's new dual role goes into effect July 2. 'I am grateful for this career opportunity, and I think the Boards of Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island and Invest WindsorEssex for the trust they are placing in me to be the CEO of both organizations,' said Orr. 'I very much understand the meaningful roles both regional entities have in being economic generators and job creators. With a strong bench of senior leaders and equally talented staff at both organizations, I look forward to leading these teams for the betterment of the entire region.' Senior leaders on the teams include Jason Toner, vice-president of marketing and communications at TWEPI and Joe Goncalves, vice-president of investment attraction and strategic initiatives at Invest WindsorEssex. 'On behalf of the Board of Directors for Invest WindsorEssex, I am pleased to welcome Gordon Orr as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer,' said Mayor Drew Dilkens, who also serves as the chair of the Board of Directors for Invest WindsorEssex. 'For over three decades, Gordon's leadership, vision, commitment, and follow-through has helped to grow and sustain a thriving tourism and hospitality sector in our region, with significant positive spinoffs for economic development. Now, as Windsor-Essex is identified as one of the fastest growing communities to watch in Ontario and Canada, it is more important than ever to have strong and dedicated leadership to attract new investments and businesses, along with the residents and visitors needed to sustain the upward growth trajectory in our region.' Orr took on the role as TWEPI CEO in September 2011.
