Travel leaders share impact of IPW on international inbound

Last week, U.S. Travel welcomed 5,700 attendees, including 2,000 international buyers and media from nearly 70 countries—an impressive 20% increase from last year—to IPW in Los Angeles.

Each IPW not only cultivates valuable connections and knowledge-sharing but also serves as an economic catalyst, driving over $5.5 billion in future travel to the U.S. by spotlighting the very best of what our country has to offer.

There is a decade of opportunity ahead as the United States prepares to welcome millions of new travelers to major events in destinations nationwide, such as Copa America this summer, the FIFA World Cup games and America’s 250th celebration in 2026, and the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028, among others that will attract leisure and business travelers.

Industry leaders, as well as elected officials joined IPW 2024, and shared why travel is essential to their communities, businesses, and economies. 

“Put quite simply, tourism is indispensable to Los Angeles. Right now, there are more than 530,000 Angelenos who earn a living in tourism-related careers….and last year alone, our local business community saw over $40 billion in local business sales, including in hundreds of small and diverse-owned businesses.” – President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, Adam Burke

“[The travel industry’s] contributions to our economy help provide an incredible experience for tourists for lifetimes to come.” – Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

“The energy and engagement we’ve seen at IPW 2024 reinforces Chicago’s status as a world-class city for both leisure and business travelers. I am so excited to bring this momentum back home and continue to elevate our city’s profile on the global stage.” – City of Chicago Deputy Mayor, Kenya Merritt

“The relationships forged at IPW are invaluable. Past IPWs have generated billions of dollars in additional economic impact through increased international visitation to past host cities, and we anticipate a significant boost in global travelers choosing Chicago in the years following our hosting next year.” – Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, Daniel Thomas

Later this month, during National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), May 19-25, 2024, the industry will continue to underscore travel’s essential role in driving our nation’s economy, cultivating vibrant communities, and forging connections. Join us in celebrating the power of travel in your local community.