Georgia’s Meeting and Convention Industry Surges

News Summary

Georgia’s meeting and convention sector has seen remarkable growth in recent times, attracting 16.4 million domestic visitors and generating $4.3 billion in direct spending. The state’s strategic connectivity and diverse venues position it as a prime destination for events of all sizes. Major developments like the expansion of the Savannah Convention Center and the renovation of various facilities illustrate Georgia’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure for the meetings market. This growth not only boosts the economy but also creates jobs across multiple sectors, promising a bright future for Georgia’s tourism industry.

Atlanta – Georgia’s meeting and convention industry is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2023, welcoming 16.4 million domestic visitors for business and conventions and generating an impressive $4.3 billion in direct spending. This surge marks a record-breaking year for the state’s tourism sector, significantly contributing to Georgia’s economy by supporting local businesses and creating jobs across various sectors including lodging, food and beverage, retail, and transportation.

The state’s strategic domestic and global connectivity makes it a prime destination for meetings and conventions. Georgia boasts a diverse selection of world-class venues and hospitality options that cater to events of all sizes. New and innovative meeting spaces across the state are fostering creativity and enhancing connections among event attendees, making Georgia the go-to spot for corporate gatherings.

Meeting spaces in Georgia are continuously evolving to meet the increasing demand for flexible, state-of-the-art venues. This expansion includes convention centers, conference resorts, and unique meeting spaces specifically designed to attract both large and small gatherings. The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) in Atlanta is the largest combined venue for conventions, sports, and entertainment in the United States, featuring an impressive 1.5 million square feet of exhibit space. The GWCC ranks as the fourth-largest convention center nationwide, while the new 976-key Signia by Hilton Atlanta offers over 100,000 square feet of meeting space, housing the largest hotel ballroom in the state.

Notable Venue Developments

Several key developments illustrate Georgia’s commitment to enhancing its meeting and convention infrastructure:

• The Savannah Convention Center recently doubled its size, now providing 200,000 square feet of exhibit space which includes a new 40,000-square-foot ballroom. Additionally, a new 400-room Signia by Hilton Savannah hotel is planned adjacent to the convention center.
• The Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta underwent a $1 million renovation, boosting its versatility and location appeal near popular attractions.
• The Boathouse at Lake Lanier Olympic Park features 18,000 square feet of flexible meeting space while upholding its notable Olympic rowing heritage.
• Cloudland at McLemore Resort offers panoramic views with 20,000 square feet of event space, positioning it well for guests interested in outdoor activities.
• The Delta Flight Museum offers 68,000 square feet for meetings, located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world.
• Duluth’s Gas South District features a multipurpose campus with an expanded convention center and a new Westin hotel, complementing the area’s rich culinary scene and shopping options.

Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The Georgia Department of Economic Development emphasizes that professional meetings extend benefits beyond the immediate event. The economic ripple effect created by these gatherings not only highlights the necessity for versatile and high-quality meeting spaces but also enhances Georgia’s standing as a premier destination for conventions and events.

With its array of meeting venues and unique attractions, Georgia’s appeal to the convention and meetings market continues to grow. The state’s investment in its infrastructure, alongside the ongoing evolution of its venues, positions it well for future success as business travel demands increase.

As Georgia continues to thrive in the meetings and convention sector, the outlook remains bright for both the industry and local economies that benefit from the influx of visitors.

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