NYC sets new tourism goal of US$70 billion

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and NYC & Company have announced that the city has set a new goal to generate US$70 billion in economic impact from travel and tourism by 2015. Building on a new visitation goal to attract 55 million visitors in this same time period, NYC & Company continues to expand its efforts with particular focus on attracting international visitors, who account for 50% of direct tourism spending. Based on new programs, officials estimate that, in addition to increasing its economic impact across the five boroughs, the tourism industry will also contribute to US$45 billion in direct spending to the city and add 30,000 new jobs to the city’s workforce by 2015 – bringing the tourism workforce to upwards of 350,000 jobs across the five boroughs. In 2011, New York City met and exceeded its goal to attract 50 million visitors by 2012, a year ahead of schedule and a first in New York City history. NYC & Company CEO and Brand USA vice-chair George Fertitta made the announcement at Pow Wow International in Los Angeles — the same week that Brand USA announced a new international marketing campaign to boost travel to the United States. “Today’s announcement is another reminder of the important role tourism plays in New York City,”said Bloomberg. “Every visitor that comes to our city and every dollar they spend are critically important to our economy. After reaching a record-breaking 50 million visitors last year and setting our sights on attracting 55 million visitors by 2015, New York City is working hard to remain the favourite destination for visitors from around the world.”