Manchester’s Glee at tourism boost
The cast of Glee’s two-night residency at the MEN Arena helped Manchester secure it’s highest ever hotel occupancy level for June.
On the nights the American musical was in town the city's
hotels reached 98% capacity. Performances by Take That at the then
City of Manchester Stadium sold almost as many hotel bedrooms -
with the city 97% full.
These events helped make June 2011 the highest June for hotel
occupancy since records began eleven years ago.
Paul Simpson, managing director of Visit Manchester, said:
"The Greater Manchester Tourism Strategy clearly identifies major
events as a key driver of the local economy.
"Given the average price of a hotel room per night in the city
centre, these occupancy levels translate to around £12.4m in terms
of spend in the city. This supports not only our hotel industry but
also bars, restaurants and transport providers.
"The MEN Arena and the Etihad Stadium, as well as venues like
the O2 Apollo and Manchester Academy, are incredible assets for the
city and the occupancy levels for June show the tangible benefits
they bring."
For more information about what to see and do in Manchester,
check out: www.visitmanchester.com
ENDS