Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Celebrates Impact of Travel on Area's Economic Development during National Travel and Tourism Week
Tourism Remains No. 1 Industry, Generating $7 Billion Annually;
Destination Gears Up to Welcome 20 Million Visitors by 2020
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C., May 2, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, in conjunction with National Travel and Tourism Week, the beautiful area of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, released new figures detailing tourism's impact on the area's economic development. In addition to remaining the No. 1 industry in both Horry and Georgetown counties, which span the Myrtle Beach area, independent research conducted by Coastal Carolina University also found that tourism generates $7 billion annually for the local market and supports more than 83,000 jobs, a notable 80 percent of which are maintained year-round.
The area also announced today that it is gearing up to welcome 20 million visitors annually by the year 2020 across its 60 miles of coastline, by promoting its spring and fall shoulder seasons which offer summer-like weather, beautiful ocean waters, and all the amenities and attractions the area is known for with even more affordability. As of 2014 findings, more than 17 million visit the destination annually.
"National Travel and Tourism Week was created to celebrate what travel brings to our lives. This means not just the power of travel to educate, rejuvenate and inspire, but also its positive impact on job creation and economic development," said Brad Dean, president and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. "Locally, tourism is a huge story for us: it means tax revenue for our schools, hospitals and houses; ongoing development and infrastructure improvement; preserving our area's rich culture and history; and much more. What I am most proud of, though, is that I am able to call this amazing place home. When more than 17 million people choose your hometown as their vacation destination each year, how can you not boast?"
The $7 billion in economic development locally represents an impressive 37 percent of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism's statewide economic impact of $19 billion. Coastal Carolina University also found that tourism generated $2.2 billion in annual income for employees and businesses, as well as $485 million in state and local taxes.
For more information on the area and to view seasonal deals, visit www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com.
The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, comprising 12 distinct cities along the South Carolina coast. Home to 60 miles of sandy beaches, an assortment of entertainment and family attractions, Southern hospitality and world-class golf, the Myrtle Beach area presents the quintessential vacation experience.
For additional information on the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1.
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SOURCE VisitMyrtleBeach.com
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