Requests for tourism literature have set a record so far in 2002, reports Tourism PEI staff this week. The number of kits sent out in May of this year was more than double that of 2001. The very busy staff at the toll-free call centre and distribution centre handled 28,150 more requests this year than last. Increases like these should translate into a strong year for everyone in the industry, predicts Tourism Minister, Greg Deighan.
The Distribution Centre of Tourism PEI, housed in the West Royalty Industrial Park, is responsible for dissemination of printed tourism literature. The latest count by Distribution staff shows that they reached the 53,470 mark for the month of May, an all-time record for the centre, beating the previous high of 25,320.
"We are really pleased with the increased interest in Prince Edward Island as a vacation destination," noted Greg Deighan, Minister of Tourism. "While it's hard to know exactly how the increased inquiries will convert to actual visitors to the Island this coming season, it is apparent that our marketing endeavours have made a positive impact."
Marketing in the Quebec, Maritime and New England regions has been stepped up this year, with more investment than ever before spent on campaigns in these key markets. The response to the print, internet and television campaigns certainly proves that people like what they see.
"I know the entire industry is getting ready for a banner season, and I join in on the anticipation for the best year ever," noted the Minister. "The hard work of the Tourism Marketing Authority, our Advertising Agency of Record, Cossette Atlantic, and the staff at Tourism PEI has set the stage and the welcome mat is out. Bring on the tourists!"