The American Bus Association (ABA) announced Cleveland, Ohio will host the ABA’s annual Marketplace, to be held January 14-17, 2017 at the Cleveland Convention Center. The ABA’s Marketplace is the motorcoach, travel and tourism industry’s premier event.

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ABA says its members attending Marketplace produce substantial economic impact for the host city. When ABA held its 2013 Marketplace in Charlotte, North Carolina officials said the direct economic impact in lodging, entertainment, food and other activities was seven million dollars. Additionally, previous host cities have seen at least a 10% increase in motorcoach and group travel related tourism after Marketplace, because of increased awareness of the city by the travel and tourism industry. It is anticipated that the 2017 Marketplace will result in more than eight thousand hotel room nights by the 3,500 members who will attend.

A single motorcoach visit to the region can generate as much as $25,000 per day for the local economy in lodging, meals, tickets to events and other spending. In 2012, motorcoaches were responsible for nearly 640 million passenger trips, and many of those group tours are booked at Marketplace. During the 2014 Marketplace in Nashville, the 3,500 members in Nashville generated nearly $130 million dollars in total business, that’s nearly $89,000 per company.

“The American Bus Association is thrilled when we can bring new cities into the ABA Marketplace family,” said President and CEO Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS. “Cleveland will be a fantastic host city. We know our members will have a great time, visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the city’s many other attractions, and, of course, generating tens of millions of dollars’ worth of travel and tourism business for Cleveland.”

“The ABA’s Marketplace is the Super Bowl for travel and tourism – and the City of Cleveland is honored to be able to host an event of this magnitude in January of 2017,” said David Gilbert, President and CEO of Positively Cleveland (CVB). “Much like the group tour industry, Cleveland is experiencing a rebirth with nearly $3 billion in visitor-related infrastructure developments that have enhanced the overall visitor experience. With that said, we are excited to introduce our city’s attractions, restaurants, and accommodations to the 3,500 members of ABA, while showcasing Cleveland as a top group tour destination.”