Visitor Contributions Propel Economic Growth in Long Beach

Visitor Contributions Propel Economic Growth in Long Beach

A recent analysis indicates that visitors to Long Beach generate nearly $2 billion in economic impact, an impressive increase of $213 million over previous figures recorded before the pandemic. This insightful report, prepared by Kleinhenz Economics and commissioned by Visit Long Beach, sheds light on the significant role that tourism plays in invigorating the local economy.

Understanding the Economic Contributions

The research focused on the effects of both business and leisure visitors, detailing how overnight stays and day trips contribute tangibly to the city’s financial health. According to the report, visitor spending directly supports local businesses, fosters job creation, and enhances tax revenues used for essential city services.

Some key findings from the report highlight:

• Approximately 14,600 jobs created as a result of visitor spending.
• $785 million in labor income, with an average salary of $53,850.
• Tax revenues reaching $359 million, with $171 million of this stemming from local and state taxes.
• $38.2 million generated from transient occupancy taxes, which are paid by visitors staying in hotels.

Rebounding Tourism Industry

The tourism sector in Long Beach is on a strong recovery trajectory, even surpassing the growth rates seen across Los Angeles County. There have been notable increases in hotel revenue and airport usage, indicating a resurgence in travel interest and activity.

Steve Goodling, President & CEO of Meet Long Beach and Visit Long Beach, emphasizes that Long Beach continues to hold its own against competitive tourism markets. Recent data indicates that hotel revenue in Long Beach has outperformed not only L.A. County but also San Diego in revenue per available room—a measure that reflects the financial performance of hotels within the area.

Convention Business as a Catalyst for Growth

A considerable part of Long Beach's economic success can be attributed to the thriving convention business hosted at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center. Major attractions such as the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific, coupled with significant events like the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, also contribute to boosting visitor numbers.

In a bid to modernize, there have been substantial investments in the Convention Center, with a $10 million upgrade completed in 2013 that transformed the Long Beach Arena into the Pacific Ballroom. This venue has been pivotal in facilitating large assemblies and has generated an estimated impact of $427 million over the past decade.

An ongoing investment approach has seen the city commit over $85 million to enhancing the convention center facilities, ensuring they are equipped with cutting-edge amenities that provide significant savings for event planners.

Prominent Awards and Recognition

The Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center has been honored with several accolades, including a gold award for the "Best in the Far West" at the Stella Awards for seven consecutive years, showcasing the prowess of the venue as an ideal location for events.

In addition, Meet Long Beach has similarly received accolades for its efforts in marketing the city as a premier destination for conventions and events, consistently earning recognition that highlights the city’s appeal to both visitors and meeting planners.

About Visit Long Beach

Founded in 1982, Visit Long Beach is dedicated to marketing and promoting the city as a vibrant destination for leisure travel, conventions, and events. Employing various strategies from digital marketing to media relations, Visit Long Beach aims to boost local tourism and assist businesses in capitalizing on tourist interest.

About Meet Long Beach

Launched by local business leaders in 2023, Meet Long Beach focuses on positioning the city as a choice destination for larger conventions and meetings. Their experienced sales team actively pursues major events to draw visitors, creating a ripple effect of economic growth across the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total economic impact of visitor spending in Long Beach?

Visitor spending in Long Beach generates nearly $2 billion, marking a significant increase from previous years.

How many jobs are created through visitor spending?

Approximately 14,600 jobs have been created due to increased visitor spending.

What organizations are tasked with promoting Long Beach?

Visit Long Beach and Meet Long Beach are the primary organizations responsible for marketing the city.

How much did the Pacific Ballroom's upgrades cost?

The renovations to the Pacific Ballroom started with an initial investment of $10 million in 2013.

What awards has Long Beach's Convention Center received?

The Convention Center has received the Gold award for "Best in the Far West" in the Stella Awards for several consecutive years, reflecting its prominence in the meetings industry.

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