Minister Chagger announces next step in the development of a Canadian culinary tourism strategy
OTTAWA, Nov. 16, 2017 /CNW/ - From maple syrup to Malpeque oysters, Canada's culinary experiences are diverse and distinctive. And more and more, high-quality and diverse food options are as essential for visitors coming to Canada as our breathtaking natural beauty and diverse range of activities are.
Today, the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, announced that Twenty31 Consulting Inc. has been selected to develop options for a new Canadian culinary tourism strategy.
Canada produces quality local food and beverages from coast to coast to coast. In big cities and small towns across the country, world-renowned chefs are using the best of Canada's natural bounty to revisit traditional cuisine and create new works of culinary art, while family restaurants are serving up a vibrant array of dishes from around the world.
The development of a culinary tourism strategy is one of the commitments made by the Government of Canada in Canada's New Tourism Vision. Twenty31 Consulting will work with the tourism, food and beverage sectors to develop options on how to make Canada a top destination for tourists seeking unique, world-class culinary experiences.
Quotes
"Canada is a great place for food lovers to visit. We have so many diverse and incredible places to eat, as well as high-quality food made with the freshest homegrown ingredients. With today's announcement, we are taking the next step in developing Canada's first culinary tourism strategy. Now more than ever, access to top-quality meals and food experiences is a strong consideration for international travellers. And we know that our amazing food and diverse culinary offerings from around the world make Canada a top destination for foodies. I look forward to working with Twenty31 Consulting and our partners across the country to develop a strategy to tell this fantastic story to the world."
– The Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism
"Canadian farmers, ranchers and growers produce the best quality food in the world, and we're excited to highlight our culinary experiences, destinations and traditions. Shared food experiences, like the ones created at farmer's markets, are essential to culinary tourism, and we're proud to be part of an effort that promotes our local farmers and strengthens our rural communities."
–The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Quick facts
- According to Statistics Canada, approximately one fifth of spending ($3.56 billion) by international travellers in Canada is on food and beverages.
- Canada's food service industry generates $75 billion in annual sales and employs more than 1.2 million Canadians.
- Canada's restaurants provide more first jobs than any other industry: 22 percent of Canadians get their career start in a restaurant or food service business.
- In 2016, Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector employed 2.3 million people, representing 12.5% of Canadian employment.
Follow Minister Chagger on social media.
Twitter: @MinofSBT
Instagram: minofsbt
SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
For further information: Jonathan Dignan, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Small Business and Tourism, 343-291-2700; Media Relations, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, 343-291-1777, [email protected]
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