With spring around the corner, it’s been amazing to see the return of tour buses in the city I live in- Ottawa, Ontario. In fact, conventions, schools, sports groups, and tourist have kept motor coaches in the city all winter long. Like most of us in the motor coach business, I’m always taking note of the coaches I see during my daily travels, and it never fails to amaze me just how many members from other parts of Ontario and operators from out of province or country visit our national capital.
With the tour season just around the corner. Many members are reporting strong group bookings and while charter availability is limited. As the demand for group travel and charters continues to pick up speed, the business environment for many continues to be challenging. This is why the association’s priorities for 2023 continue to focus on our government advocacy, regrowing our membership and modernizing our systems and events. We are pushing governments for to secure federal and provincial loan repayment forgiveness, for additional business liquidity and industry-specific government support. Plus, always advocating for specific transportation issues as they relate to our members. Your membership supports our advocacy work. Without you, the motor coach sector would not have a strong voice in government circles. Thank you for your ongoing support and membership.
Please remember to join us at this year’s Ontario Transportation Expo, www.ota.ca happening in Toronto April 16-19th. This is Canada’s largest bus conference and tradeshow. OMCA Marketplace registration for Tour Operators is now open with seller and other delegate registration opening at the end of the month. Please also remember to save the date for our annual Golf Tournament which is scheduled for August 22nd in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Registration is opening soon.
Have a wonderful spring and hope to see you next month at OTE.