Destination Stratford works hard to attract thousands of tourists to Stratford each year with events running year round. Now, they’re focusing on working toward positive change in the local tourism sector by certifying as a living wage employer.

“As we continue to navigate our collective economic recovery from the pandemic, we have an opportunity to rethink and reimagine our tourism sector,” says Zac Gribble, Executive Director of Destination Stratford. “Increased tourism workforce development and opportunity are critically important, and we recognize that a living wage is a step in the right direction.”

“We appreciate Destination Stratford stepping up and supporting the living wage,” added United Way Perth-Huron Executive Director Ryan Erb. “The tourism sector is a huge part of the local economy and by certifying as a living wage employer, Destination Stratford is committing to helping build a stronger community. We hope their decision inspires other local tourism-based businesses to follow suit.”

Based on a 35-hour work week, the Perth-Huron living wage is calculated regularly using local data and takes into account the living expenses of a weighted average of family types including a family of four, a single mother supporting a seven-year-old child and a single adult, once government transfers and deductions are factored in. Everyday expenses in the calculation include housing, food, utilities, childcare and transportation. For more information about Perth-Huron’s living wage, GO HERE.

About Destination Stratford
As Stratford’s official destination marketing organization since 2007, Destination Stratford’s purpose is to develop, manage and promote “Destination Stratford” as a national and international tourism icon. Managed by skilled and experienced tourism planners directly involved in the Stratford community, the goal of the organization is to strengthen the local economy and enrich the quality of life in the City of Stratford through tourism revenue.