Message to Our Partners

I’m writing to update you on the impact the COVID-19 virus is having on the Buffalo Niagara hospitality industry.

We are dealing with an unprecedented crisis and bracing ourselves for the impact that is going to result from the social distancing and shelter-in-place guidelines that are bringing travel and tourism to a virtual halt.

The state of affairs with our tourism industry is devastating with no immediate relief in sight. The situation remains extremely fluid, and we anticipate additional downward pressure as events unfold.

In order to safeguard the health and well-being of our staff, we have asked our employees to work from home until further notice. We are all available via email or phone.

While we are not closing our office, we are implementing a series of cost-saving initiatives for the next few months to mitigate the impact of lost hotel/motel tax revenue, including ceasing operation at both the downtown and airport visitor centers.

We will continue to share any changes we see to assist you in your business planning in the short term and as we navigate the new normal of our industry for its future.

We are all facing tremendous challenges and difficulties as we confront this public health crisis, but we are all in this together and will find the resolve and resilience to stand strong and rebuild our tourism economy together.

Patrick Kaler
President & CEO
Visit Buffalo Niagara