The Frisco Convention & Visitors Bureau is conducting its third study on the economic impact of the tourism industry in Frisco.
The CVB commissioned to have this study done in 2008 and again in 2013. CVB Executive Director Marla Roe said the CVB is looking to have this study done every two years.
“It’s important for developers and businesses to have fresh data when they are looking to develop or own a business in Frisco,” Roe said.
The study takes about 10 months to complete to have a good sampling of people, Roe said.
Destination Analysts is conducting the study for the third time.
The study looks at out-of-town guests staying in Frisco hotels or private homes, as well as regional daily visitors.
Many people may think the average Frisco visitor comes for the sports, but Roe said that is not the case.
According to the 2013 study, Frisco visitors spent $530 million on retail purchases and $337 million on restaurants. The top five venues for visitors were Stonebriar Centre, Frisco Square, old downtown Frisco, IKEA and Toyota Stadium.
The study also asked guests about potential future attractions such as botanical gardens, fine art museums and amusement parks.
“We want to find out what would be of great interest to a traveler so we can have repeat visitation,” Roe said.
For the current study being conducted, Roe said the CVB is looking further into the demographics of Frisco to have a better profile of the average visitor.
After the study is complete, the CVB and the research company will give a presentation to city officials, including the Frisco Economic Development Corp.
“Businesses that are looking to develop a facility or establish operations in Frisco are desirous of a healthy tourism industry,” FEDC President Jim Gandy said.
Gandy said the study is a crucial part in bringing in more of regional destination projects such as dining, entertainment and hotels.
“The city invests a lot of money in tourism development not only for the resident but to bring that influx of money in, and so you have to have some kind of measure of how your community is performing,” Roe said.
