As we approach Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) on April 3, 2025, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the pivotal role that meetings and events play in our communities and economies. GMID serves as an international day of advocacy, highlighting the undeniable value that business meetings, trade shows, incentive travel, exhibitions, conferences, and conventions bring to people, businesses, and communities worldwide. MPIWeb+5PCMA+5SITE Global+5
In the Hickory Metro area, the significance of the meetings industry is particularly evident through the contributions of the Hickory Metro Convention Center (HMCC). This facility has been instrumental in attracting a diverse array of events, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the region's reputation as a premier destination for business and leisure activities.
Economic Impact and Growth
The HMCC has consistently demonstrated its value by hosting over 200 events annually, ranging from one-day meetings to week-long conferences. This robust event schedule has significantly boosted the local economy. In the fiscal year 2022-2023, occupancy tax collections reached an unprecedented high of nearly $2.5 million, surpassing the previous year by over $300,000. This increase is attributed to factors such as higher average daily rates, the resurgence of business travel post-pandemic, and the successful attraction of more meetings, events, sports tourism, and leisure travelers. visithickorymetro.comCloudinary
Furthermore, according to a study conducted by Visit North Carolina, domestic and international visitors to Catawba County spent approximately $331.48 million in 2022, marking a 13.5% increase from the previous year. This spending supported over 2,400 jobs in the county, generating a total payroll of $85.2 million. State and local tax revenues from travel-generated activities amounted to $13.3 million and $11.3 million, respectively, resulting in a tax savings of $151.57 per resident in Catawba County. Cloudinary
Expansion and Renovation: Elevating the HMCC Experience
Recognizing the need to accommodate larger events and enhance the overall experience for attendees, the HMCC embarked on a significant expansion and renovation project. Initiated with a groundbreaking ceremony on May 1, 2023, this $14 million endeavor aims to add over 46,000 square feet to the convention center, bringing the total usable space to more than 132,000 square feet on a single level. The project is slated for completion by the summer of 2024. Cloudinary
The expansion includes the addition of a multi-purpose sports complex, which will feature a wooden gymnasium floor suitable for various sports such as basketball, volleyball, and pickleball. This facility is expected to attract numerous tournaments and sporting events, further boosting local tourism and economic activity. As of August 2024, preparations were underway to stripe the gymnasium floor for these sports, with the process anticipated to conclude by early September. visithickorymetro.com
In addition to the sports complex, a canopy-covered walkway is being constructed to connect the convention center's main entrance to the parking deck, enhancing accessibility and convenience for visitors. Despite weather-related delays, significant progress has been made, with concrete poured near the main entrance and plans for the canopy installation moving forward. visithickorymetro.com
Looking Ahead
The ongoing expansion and renovation of the HMCC underscore the commitment of the Hickory Metro community to fostering a vibrant meetings and events industry. These enhancements are poised to attract new and larger events, yielding a positive economic impact and solidifying the region's status as a premier destination for conventions and gatherings.Cloudinary
As we celebrate GMID 2025, let us acknowledge the transformative power of meetings and the vital role they play in driving economic development, fostering community engagement, and creating lasting connections. The investments made in the HMCC today will undoubtedly yield dividends for years to come, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.
