Toronto reaches new record in room booking for conventions and meetings

Mumbai,January 21, 2015(STAT):-Toronto’s convention sector reached new heights in 2014 by booking a record number of future hotel room nights for conventions and meetings, Tourism Toronto announced today. In 2014, Tourism Toronto and its partners confirmed 665 future meetings and conventions that will bring 463,400 attendees to the Toronto region, generating 640,345 hotel room nights.

“People are increasingly choosing Toronto as an international destination and that includes meeting planners and major event organizers who recognize the outstanding experience and global reputation Toronto delivers,” said David Whitaker, President and CEO of Tourism Toronto.

During 2014, Toronto hosted such global events as International Astronautical Federation with 2,500 attendees from around the world, the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (4,500 attendees), Million Dollar Round Table (7,000 attendees) and Lions Club International (15,000 attendees).

The impact of meetings is far-reaching as many international delegates extend their stay, bring family with them to the convention and often are inspired to return again for a pleasure trip to explore the region.

“Conventions, meetings and events are a mainstay of the tourism economy in Toronto providing solid business for the region and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs,” said David Whitaker. “Conventions generate spending on a range of businesses including hotels, restaurants, retail, taxis and convention centres. In addition, a significant number of services benefit from the meetings industry such as audio-visual, entertainment, attractions and transportation.”