Island Good “Takes Off” at Comox Valley Airport

Source: VICTRP Info Bulletin #39

Erin Neely, Market Development Manager, Comox Valley Airport talks about co-creating the visitor experience with a commitment to local products.

Island Good was created by the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) with the vision of making local products more accessible to Islanders and travellers.

Comox Valley Airport adopted the program to support its mandate to be the gateway to the region and increase economic development. “Island good perfectly embodies and aligns with our goals,” Erin says. “We want visitors to have a great first impression of Vancouver Island and be introduced to what is local.”

From craft beverages to artwork, the airport’s On the Fly Café and Mid-Island Gifts proudly offer quality products from Island producers, many of which are made in the Comox Valley.

On the Fly Café has also recently introduced “Pie on the Fly” offering locally baked sweet and savoury pies to build business while adhering to current pandemic protocols. The Comox Valley Airport Commission installed a take-out window, allowing customers to call ahead and receive curbside pick-up without entering the terminal.

Comox Valley Airport has been able to educate their suppliers on the benefits of Island Good. The airport’s involvement has helped to build awareness of the program with small businesses that may not have considered it on their own.

“We want to grow local investment, particularly in the early stages,” Erin adds. “As local businesses and producers come out of this pandemic, opportunities through Island Good can only serve to help. Thank you to VIEA for bringing this initiative forward!”