While the final Republican National Convention (RNC) economic impact report has yet to be released, initial data shows that tourism spending generally dropped during the month of the RNC in Milwaukee, according to Wisconsin Public Radio.
Several business owners reportedly complained about slow business during the convention, which took place July 15-18, despite RNC boosters’ promises that the event would be an economic boon for the area, citing an economic impact of $200 million.
Sales data from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue show spending on tourism-related industries including restaurants and bars was down in Milwaukee County over the month that the event occurred. Restaurant and bar spending was also $12.5 million lower in July 2024 compared with June 2024 across the city of Milwaukee, the sales data showed.
Hotels, in contrast, saw a double-digit increase in sales in both the city and county in July.
A comparative look at sales subject to tax for tourism- and travel-related industries in July 2023 and July 2024 in Milwaukee County shows:
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Restaurants and bars saw a 1%, or $1.8 million, decline in sales;
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Performing arts and spectator sports saw a 24.6%, or $5.9 million, sales drop;
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Amusement and gambling experienced a 14.5%, or $3.7 million, decline in sales;
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Museums and historical sites saw a 38.1%, or $275,664, drop in sales; and
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Accommodation, or hotels, experienced a 41.5%, or $17.9 million, increase in sales.
