London Welcomes 2.1 Million Overnight Visitors with a Five per cent Increase Over 2022 Along with More than 150,000 International Tourists – Travel And Tour World

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Tourism in London experienced a significant boost in 2023, with spending by tourists surpassing the billion-dollar mark. According to a report prepared by the Conference Board of Canada’s Economic Research Division for Tourism London, tourists spent nearly $1.1 billion in the city last year, marking an 11 per cent increase from the previous year. This surge in spending underscores the vital role tourism plays in bolstering the local economy and supporting numerous jobs.

A Year of Growth in Travel Industry

London welcomed 2.1 million overnight visitors in 2023, a five per cent increase over 2022. More than 150,000 of these visitors came from abroad, highlighting the city’s growing international appeal. The substantial rise in tourist numbers and spending is attributed to several factors, including improved amenities, successful events, and strategic marketing efforts.

Economic Impact on London Travel Industry

Tourist spending in London generated significant revenue across various sectors. According to the report, tourists spent $417 million on food and beverages alone, with three-quarters of this amount spent in restaurants. The overall tourism activity contributed $616 million to London’s economy, supporting 7,864 full-year jobs.

Leadership’s Take

Mayor Josh Morgan expressed his delight at the growth in tourism spending. “I’m thrilled by the remarkable growth in tourism spending in our city this past year,” Mayor Morgan said. “This increase highlights the essential role tourism plays in enriching our community’s industries, supporting numerous full-time jobs, and contributing to the well-being and success of London.”

Cheryl Finn, Tourism London’s general manager, echoed the Mayor’s sentiments, noting the organization’s efforts to drive tourism growth. “We knew we were on trend to recover strong,” she said. “Just being a mid-sized city, having large center offerings through culinary and entertainment and events.”

Key Drivers of Growth to Boost Tourism Industry in London

Finn highlighted several key attractions and events that contributed to the rise in tourist spending. Among them, 100 Kellogg Lane emerged as a major entertainment and culinary destination, drawing visitors of all ages. The site represents a significant private sector investment in the city, further enhancing London’s tourism appeal.

Additionally, the recent 60-year anniversary and $5 million revamp of East Park London announced in March added to the city’s allure. Popular events like Rock the Park and Sunfest also played crucial roles, attracting large crowds and showcasing London’s vibrant cultural scene. Finn praised Londonlicious for promoting the city’s culinary offerings, further boosting the local food and beverage sector.

Upcoming Events and Future Prospects That Propel London Tourism

Looking ahead, Finn is optimistic about continued growth in tourism spending. The Ontario Summer Games, set to begin on August 1, is expected to attract over 3,000 athletes and their families to the city for the four-day event. This influx of visitors will provide a significant boost to the local economy, reinforcing the importance of hosting major events.

Another factor contributing to London’s success is the region’s “low seasonality,” meaning Southwestern Ontario experiences fewer fluctuations in visitor numbers throughout the year. This stability helps mitigate the impact of sudden economic downturns or changes in demand.

Engaging the Student Population

Tourism London also recognizes the importance of engaging the city’s student population. With a significant influx of students from Western University and Fanshawe College returning each fall, the organization gears events and programs to appeal to this demographic. “We know that we have a huge influx of students coming back in the early fall, so looking at events and programs that appeal to students is incredibly important,” Finn noted.

The remarkable growth in tourist spending in London in 2023 underscores the city’s appeal as a vibrant destination with a diverse array of attractions and events. The strategic efforts of Tourism London, coupled with significant private sector investments and successful event planning, have driven this success. As London continues to attract more visitors and host major events, the city is well-positioned to sustain its momentum in the tourism sector, contributing to economic growth and community well-being.