Alabama's beaches set a new spring record that surpassed the previous benchmark year of 2007.
GULF SHORES, Ala. and ORANGE BEACH, Ala., Aug. 1, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to data released today by Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (CVB), Alabama's beaches set a new spring record that surpassed the previous benchmark year of 2007. More than $64.9 million was spent in lodging rentals for spring 2011 (March – May), which is 12.7 percent higher than spring 2007 ($57.6 million). Incidentally, May 2011 finished 22.2 percent ahead of 2007. When comparing year-to-date figures, the area is currently 14 percent above the same period for 2007.
"These lodging figures show that the area is continuing to recover in a strong manner as lodging revenue is the best indicator of tourism growth," said Herb Malone, president/CEO of the CVB. "To have figures that are outpacing our previous banner year speaks volume for the area's resiliency, the loyalty of our consumer base and the synergistic effort of our entire tourism and hospitality industry."
Gross retail sales for spring 2011 finished at $167.7 million.
These lodging and retail figures contribute to the income of more than 40,000 Baldwin County residents, who are employed in travel-related jobs.
June lodging and retail tax figures are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Resource:
To see the complete report, go to www.agccvb.org/stats, and view the JUNE - Destination Growth Indicators.
Media Contact:
Kim Chapman
Public Relations Manager
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
P.O. Drawer 457; Gulf Shores, AL 36547
kchapman@gulfshores.com
1-800-745-SAND
251-974-4625 (direct)
251-752-8448 (cell)
About the Organization:
Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism serves as the official destination marketing organization for the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in addition to the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan. To learn more about Alabama's 32 miles of sugar white sand, visit either www.gulfshores.com or www.orangebeach.com. The convention and visitors bureau is an accredited Destination Marketing Organization, 2008-2012.
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