It is important to remember that tourism is an integral part of the Berkshire economy that continues to sustain economic growth, and by doing so, enhances the quality of life for residents in the region. Jobs directly related to tourism supported nearly 4,000 residents throughout the county in 2015, continuing the growth in the number of jobs for the 4th year in a row and a 22% increase in associated payroll.
Location: Berkshire Theatre Group, Photo Credit: Michelle McGrady
Visitors in the Berkshires generated $453 million of spending at local businesses throughout the county in 2015, a 6% boost over 2014 according to data just released by the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. This spending returned almost $23 million to the state in tax revenue and Berkshire communities received an additional $12.9 million to use for local services. These figures are based on “visitors” defined as those who are more than 50 miles away from home.
“When more people than ever visit the Berkshires and spend their hard-earned dollars in our local businesses, that means more money for our communities and it also means more jobs for our residents,” explained Jonathan Butler, President of 1Berkshire.
“We have an excellent track record of getting a great return on investment for what we spend on marketing the Berkshires,” Butler continued. “Tourism promotion does not just boost the number of visitors but brings economic benefits to the Berkshires in the form of greater investment and new business openings in the region. It also boosts the perception of our region and acts as a magnet for creative economy workers and young professionals. This more than confirms the need for us to continue working with our businesses and partners to support the growth and expansion of our tourism industry.”
Location: Bizen Gourmet Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar, Photo Credit: Ogden Gigli
“Travelers come to the Berkshires from across the country and around the globe,” explained Lauri Klefos, Chief Marketing Officer for 1Berkshire. “We are seeing more visitation from international markets as we continue to focus some of our marketing dollars on building that business. The Berkshire region offers a wide variety of assets with unique attractions, an active agricultural and culinary movement, and small communities with picturesque views – all of which caters to the international traveler,” she added. “The tourism industry isn’t only our cultural attractions and hospitality venues, but any business or event that is frequented by visitors, they all add to the economic impact of tourism. We are a place envied by others.”
Butler agreed, stating “Tourism is one of our top industries that continues to grow and is an instant revenue generator for the Commonwealth as well as our 32 communities throughout Berkshire County.”
According to the U.S. Travel Association, Massachusetts posted an increase in tourism revenue last year generating over $20 billion dollars in spending, supporting 134,970 jobs across the commonwealth and returning $812 million in tax revenue.