Tourism London reports that tourism spending in London, Ontario will exceed $1 billion in 2023.
A report prepared by the Conference Bureau of Canada said tourism spending in the city increased by 10.8 per cent last year, bringing in an additional $106.5 million in revenue for the local economy compared to 2022. This will bring total annual overnight tourist spending in 2023 to $1.08 billion.
“When you talk about our new initiatives, our work through 100 Kellogg’s, our work and investment through East Park, what our restaurants are doing to increase our culinary presence in a very competitive market, and the UNESCO City of Music designation putting us in international markets,” said Cheryl Finn, general manager of London Visitors Bureau.
“Our staple events such as Rock the Park and our air show Sunfest have grown – these are now must-see and must-attend festivals and events for many people who come from all over the world.”
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Earlier this month, Rock the Park and Sunfest set records for ticket sales and attendance.
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Throughout 2023, the city welcomed approximately 2.1 million overnight guests, including 136,000 visitors from the United States, 25,000 international visitors, and approximately 2 million domestic tourists. This tourism activity generated approximately $1.052 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) for the state and contributed approximately $616.1 million to the local economy.
“Our partners are very willing to negotiate,” Finn says. “None of this is done by us alone; it’s always done in collaboration with others. We couldn’t be more proud of the people who are always willing to work with us.”
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This is positive news for 2024, and especially for the economic impact of tourism to London as the industry begins to recover following the pandemic. This tourism boom supported 10,196 jobs across the state, of which 7,864 were in London.
“We’re working with local tourism associations to put together great packages for people who are looking to come for more than just a day trip,” Finn says. “If you’re coming from abroad or the U.S., what would your southwestern Ontario itinerary look like?”
Food and beverage spending totaled $417.3 million, accounting for 38 percent of total tourism spending, of which $311.1 million was spent in restaurants and $106.3 million in stores.
“I’m pleased to have seen a significant increase in tourism spend in our city over the past year,” Mayor Josh Morgan said. “This increase highlights the vital role tourism plays in enriching our region’s industries, supporting many full-time jobs and contributing to London’s prosperity and success.”
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