July 25, 2014 – Yarmouth, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Tourism Association (YASTA) is undertaking an integrated tourism marketing strategy to promote the region to New England and other out-of-province locations.
YASTA’s new marketing initiative will help local tourism operators take advantage of new visitors. The Association is working with a destination development expert to refine and strengthen the region’s brand, creating a brand standards manual, educational workshops and brand kits for tourism operators.
YASTA is also participating in campaigns that pitch to ferry passengers onboard ships and in pre-boarding areas. Other project elements include developing print materials targeting the ferry passenger market, boosting online marketing through YASTA’s website, Facebook and other social media and participating in tradeshows.
The Government of Canada is investing $130,975 in the project, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), as announced today by Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA). The Southwest Nova Tourism Task Team contributed $50,000 to this project with funding from the Government of Nova Scotia. Additional support for the project includes $35,125 from the Municipality of Argyle, $35,125 from the Municipality of Yarmouth, $35,125 from the Town of Yarmouth and $61,900 from YASTA.
Quick Facts:
- In November 2013, the Government of Nova Scotia signed an agreement with Nova Star Cruises to commence ferry service from Yarmouth to Portland. Ferry service began on May 16, 2014.
Quotes:
“Our Government is pleased to support the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores region as it embraces the opportunities presented by the new ferry. Our investment in a comprehensive marketing strategy will help draw tourists to our restaurants, accommodations and attractions—but it’s our region’s hospitality and charm that will keep them coming back.”
- Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“Tourism operators across this region have been working hard to create great experiences that will attract new visitors to Southwest Nova Scotia. Projects like these are helping to build our tourism sector, draw in more visitors, and provide a tremendous opportunity for our local economy.”
- The Honourable Zach Churchill, Minister of Natural Resources and MLA for Yarmouth
“The Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Tourism Association is very excited to collaborate with industry to market our region to millions of potential visitors. With support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and the Government of Nova Scotia, we are able to reach a wide audience and present to them our wonderful and unique part of Canada.”
- John Cunningham, Chair, Yarmouth and Acadian Shores Tourism Association
Associated Links:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
Email: Alex.Smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Toby Koffman
Economic and Rural Development and Tourism
902-424-4482 / 902-483-5847 (cell)
Email: koffmatg@gov.ns.ca
Neil MacKenzie
General Manager
YASTA
902-742-8677
Email: nmackenzie@yasta.ca
