Tourism’s positive impact on a community is well understood. When I look at the numbers, however, it just amazes me how much of an impact there is locally.
Recently statistics were released detailing the impact of tourism in Marion County for 2011. The statistics are a result of an integrated consumer-based research study organized by the Ohio Department of Development’s Tourism Division and conducted by Longwoods International and Tourism Economics. Marion County was one of 61 county/city convention and visitor bureaus, cities and economic development boards that that took part in the tourism study for the year 2011.
Visitor spending and tourism related employment figures are essential factors to consider when evaluating the importance of travel and tourism to Marion’s economy. We must also consider the indirect benefits that result from this important industry. By shaping the quality of life, leisure destinations play an important roll in shaping the local climate for business.
Tourism contributed more than $2.7 billion in combined state and local taxes to the State of Ohio.
In Marion, tourism contributed $6 million in state and local taxes.
According to the report, tourism generated nearly $94.6 million in business activity in Marion County in 2011 from direct, indirect and induced sales. $61 million of that is from direct sales of which includes cost of goods sold from the retail sectors.
Here are more Marion County figures:
- It is estimated there were 511,522 visitors to Marion County in 2011. That includes an estimated 42,512 overnight stays.
- Tourism is an integral and driving component of the Marion County economy, sustaining 5.9% of salaried employment.
- Tourism supports 1 in every 17 private sector jobs in Marion County.
- Tourism in Marion County generated business activity of nearly $95 million, directly and indirectly, in 2011. That figure is up 2.9% over 2010.
- Tourism is a diverse composite of economic activities, including transportation, recreation, retail, lodging, and food & beverage sectors.
- Tourism generates 1435 jobs in direct, indirect and induced jobs
- Tourism generated $6 million in state and local taxes to the Marion Area.
- Of the eleven counties in the Central Ohio area, Marion County comes in fifth in total tourism impact with $94,648,599.
Many of the numbers are up from a previous year study and indicate positive growth in the area. The Marion Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is dedicated to promoting the Marion Area’s many historical and unusual attractions, with the purpose being to bring economic growth to the Marion area.
About Marion Convention and Visitors Bureau
