Grey County is celebrating recognition at the recent Ontario Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala in Ottawa.
The county took home the Tourism Digital Marketing Award for the 2015 summer-fall online campaign.
Tourism Manager Bryan Plumbstead says tourism helps drive the regional economy, and it is crucial to grow awareness online of Grey as a destination.
The campaign created by marketing firm BC Hughes of Owen Sound created ads for trip motivating experiences such as waterfall hikes, and fall harvest tours which included the Apple Pie Trail, Owen Sound Salmon Tour and the Saints & Sinners: Craft Beer, Wine & Cider Trail. It was supported by local photographer Allison Davies.
The 2015 Ultimate Fall Colour Adventure Contest, generated 32-million social media impressions. That represented a 118% increase in website visits, and a 250% increase in Facebook engagements.
5,000 information packages were mailed out and 6,500 brochures and maps downloaded.
“This campaign significantly increased tourism to Grey County and taught us some valuable lessons we have been able to incorporate into other promotions,” says Plumstead.
Grey County was represented well with two other winners from the community. Owen Sound Transportation Co. was recognized for growing awareness of the Chi-Cheemaun ferry and Colin Field of Clarksburg took home the Travel Media Photography Award.
