After Chicago made headlines earlier this year by cutting costs and unifying marketing agencies, Illinois released its 2012 tourism numbers in July, which revealed another record-breaking year for the state.
The report indicated an increase in visitors of more than 6.1 percent, as the state hosted 99 million U.S. visitors in 2012, compared to 93 million the year prior, which was the previous record.
Gov. Pat Quinn also announced that the tourism growth generated $31 billion in economic impact within Illinois. While in office, the governor has worked to expand the reach of the state’s tourism marketing efforts, recognizing its role in business growth and job creation. Marketing campaigns were launched in Canada, China, Mexico and Brazil, in addition to new partnerships with regional CVBs.