kayaking, paddleboarding, the beach, ice skating, and even snowmobiling. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a thriving 57-room resort, Windermere House has weathered challenges and embraced opportunities and is now embodying the essence of Muskoka living year-round! NAVIGATING CHALLENGES WITH RESILIENCE The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for Windermere House, as it did for the entire hospitality industry. However, what made the difference and set the foundation for a terrific recovery was Windermere House’s meticulous planning and adaptation. The resort typically had an abundance of staff ready to accommodate guests, but due to the restrictions that were in place at the time, it was forced to operate at half its normal capacity, downsizing its staff as well. While there was uncertainty as to what a recovery without enough staff would look like, the solution inevitably presented itself in another area. Believe it or not, since having to operate at limited capacity during the pandemic the resort has gradually experienced an incredible rise in its food and beverage revenue with it being double what it used to be thanks to its focus on takeout service. Additionally, in an era dominated by digital connectivity, Windermere House recognizes the need to leverage technology to amplify its brand presence and guest engagement. So, social media has become one of the resort’s primary methods of drawing attention to itself. “Our Social Media Manager does a great job… and we have now had a pretty big following on multiple platforms in the last five years,” says Resort Operations Manager Avery Kober. At the core of Windermere’s success also lies its deep-rooted partnerships with local vendors and artisans. The resort is part of the Avendra program—a robust buying initiative that supports regional businesses. These connections not only enrich the guest experience but also sustain the local economy yearround. Partnering businesses like Taylor Farm Markets and Down to Earth Organics also exemplify Windermere House’’s commitment to sustainability and community support These local providers not only supply fresh produce but also collaborate during winter months, offering unique experiences like sleigh rides—a testament to resilience in challenging times. So, in the eyes of Windermere residents and Muskoka natives, this resort is less of an attraction and more of a community staple that performs well beyond the scope of its original purpose. 216 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 08
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