Tourism in the Grand Lake St. Marys region continued to grow in 2014, according to figures provided by Auglaize-Mercer Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Donna Grube.
The total economic impact of tourism totaled more than $50.8 million, up from $48.5 million in 2013 and $44.5 million in 2012. The 2014 tourism figures are very close to matching the pre-algal bloom figure of $51.6 million set in 2008.
In 2014, tourism also supported 2,670 local jobs – more than the 2,551 it supported in 2013 and the 2,584 jobs it supported in 2008.
NOTE: Tourism figures are derived from hotel statistics, and DO NOT include figures from campers, weekenders, or day-trippers. Special thanks to CVB Executive Director Donna Grube for sharing these figures with the LIA.
Auglaize & Mercer Counties 2014 Tourism Spending
Gross Room Sales $ 5,340,589
Gasoline, Oil & Auto Repair $ 16,021,767
Restaurants and Clubs $ 18,692,061
Entertainment & Recreation $ 4,325,876
General Retail Purchases $ 6,462,113_
Total Tourism Income $ 50,842,407
Total Jobs supported 2,670