Tourism Economics

Visitors to Buncombe County generated a record-breaking $2.97 billion in 2023, according to Tourism Economics and Longwoods International data. Three billion dollars equates to 20% of Buncombe County’s total annual economy. Nearly $3 billion in visitor spending benefits a wide variety of businesses – 70% of spending took place outside of lodging businesses -- in restaurants and breweries, retail shops and galleries, with tour outfitters and transportation providers. Nearly 2,000 Explore Asheville partner businesses and organizations both serve and benefit from guests to our community. We are grateful for travel and hospitality businesses and their team members for delivering quality experiences and services to customers every day. This virtuous cycle is what makes travel such an economic powerhouse, job creator and community builder for our Asheville, Buncombe County and the state of North Carolina! Other key findings on the #economicimpact of #visitors in Asheville and Buncombe County can be found in this report: https://lnkd.in/ektEVHAt

Understanding the true economic impact of destination marketing initiatives is paramount to evolving strategy and driving advocacy. Join Tourism Economics for this dynamic session and learn how to track which digital visitors become actual visitors to your destination: https://lnkd.in/etRvj4x2

How many visitors do you think graced the Phoenix metropolitan area in 2023? 5 million? 12 million? 20 million? You're still way off - more like 46.7 million! And with that, what do you think the total economic impact of tourism was for our city and region? Its well outside of anything in the millions, try $22.8 billion (count it!) - yes, billion. The story of Greater Phoenix in 2023 was one of remarkable growth, driven by the magnetic allure of its landscapes, experiences, people and events. The latest Tourism Economics Economic Impact study unveils how the travel and tourism sector has not only enchanted millions but has also become an economic powerhouse for the region, encompassing Maricopa and Pinal Counties. This study highlights the profound benefits that visitors bring to local households, businesses, and government, emphasizing tourism's pivotal role in shaping the region's prosperous future.  This study also underscores the transformative impact sports tourism and mega-events have on our destination. In 2023 alone, Phoenix hosted Super Bowl LVII and the World Baseball Classic, in addition to a World Series appearance from our Arizona Diamondbacks, and our annual Cactus League Spring Training season. Each a spectacle in their own right, these events drew hundreds of thousands of visitors to the area. Looking ahead, the future of sports tourism in Greater Phoenix is bright, and with an impressive lineup of events on the horizon, we’re set to continue this positive trajectory. With the 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four and the 2024 WNBA (Women's National Basketball Association) All-Star Game having just took place, in addition the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four and the 2027 National Basketball Association (NBA) All-Star Game, travel and tourism will continue to drive economic growth and provide unparalleled exposure for our city and region.  Travel and tourism remain an undeniable anchor in the growth and evolution of the Sonoran Desert; we continue to bolster our legacy as a one-of-one destination defined by unmatched hospitality and endless opportunity, and together, we will continue to show the world that Phoenix is always a good idea. We’re always moving forward; Phoenix is ours to share and a place for all to keep.