Value of Tourism in Richmond BC

Throughout 2017, Tourism Richmond conducted a Visitor Volume Project to help measure the impact that tourism has on our economy. Overnight visitation to Metro Vancouver was approximately 10.35 million in 2017, with about 3.4 million of these visitors, or 33%, staying overnight in Richmond. In 2017, an estimated $1,780,000,000 was spent in Richmond by visitors from outside the Lower Mainland. This represents an estimated 23% increase over 2015. The tourism sector, excluding the Vancouver International Airport, accounts for an estimated 12% of all jobs in Richmond.

Ongoing Direct Economic Impact of Richmond’s Tourism Sector:

• 19,810 jobs or full-time equivalents (FTEs)
• $652 million in incomes and wages
• $1.78 billion in economic output
• $448 million raised in federal, provincial, and municipal taxes

PRESERVING RICHMOND’S HERITAGE  

Richmond’s unique historical and cultural resources are major tourism attractions. Tourism fosters awareness of and engagement with local cultural and historic resources by residents, community leaders, businesses and governments. Taking care of our unique historical and cultural assets is key to growing tourism revenues that support communities and ultimately increases the quality of life for local residents.

Steveston is a location unlike any other. Rich in history and culture, the area is an attraction for local, national, and international tourists alike. Some come to experience the ongoing maritime traditions that are maintained by Canada’s largest fishing fleet, some come for the historical significance of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and Britannia Shipyards, and others arrive to star gaze during filming days of popular film and television productions. All of these diverse visitors help keep this historical area alive with their continued interest and the dollars they spend.  

COMMUNITY PRIDE AND AMENITIES

Tourism has the ability to connect different aspects of a community, with the cooperation of local government, business leaders, destination marketing organizations, and citizens alike. Working together to offer a positive experience to visitors usually includes steps to improve residential infrastructure and amenities, and often leads to increased community pride and engagement.

Tourism Richmond helps to enhance and make communities more livable and welcoming by working with stakeholders, such as the City of Richmond, to keep tourism areas vibrant and providing support for amenities, programs, and services enjoyed by residents and tourists. Appreciation by visitors stimulates local engagement and awareness, support of local celebrations, and renewal of culture and traditions.

Support among all groups for local festivals and attractions has led to the ongoing development seen in the Canada Day Festival and Richmond Maritime Festival, and the creation of new festivals and venues such as the Richmond World Festival and the Richmond Olympic Experience.