Central Florida's Tourism Industry Reaches
Record $94.5 Billion in Economic Impact in 2024
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According to the 2024 Central Florida Tourism Economic Impact Study, the tourism and hospitality industry reached a new all-time high economic impact of $94.5 billion in 2024 - a 2.2% increase from 2023. This included direct visitor spending at $59.9 billion, - a 2.4% increase from the previous year.
Additionally, Central Florida's hospitality industry supported 468,000 jobs within our community in 2024 throughout various sectors, which now accounts for 37% of all jobs in the entire Central Florida region. This includes the $28 billion in wages and benefits that were paid to our local residents - up 2.5% year-over-year - who worked within the hospitality industry last year.
Lastly, state and local taxes collected from visitor activity reached $6.7 billion in 2024. Tourism revenue continues to fund essential services in the region, such as fire and law enforcement personnel, school teachers and infrastructure, which saves each household an average of $7,474 in annual taxes.
Read the full press release here.
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August CFHLA Board of Directors Meeting and
VIP Member Reception
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I-Drive/LBV Area General Managers Meeting
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On Thursday, the I-Drive/Lake Buena Vista General Managers held their second meeting of the year at the Hyatt Regency Orlando (Thank you, Paul Joseph, General Manager).
Our President/ CEO, Robert Agrusa, had an oppportunity to provide an update on the state of the Central Florida Hospitality Industry and a recap of our 2025 Legislative Report.
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Welcoming Our New Government Affairs Manager
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We're excited to welcome Zack Brodersen as our new CFHLA Government Affairs Manager!
Zack brings seven years of experience in government relations, public policy, and campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels. Most recently, he served as Government Relations Coordinator at Propelus, and previously worked with Senate President Pro Tempore Jason Brodeur and Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine.
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We’re confident Zack’s expertise and passion will strengthen our advocacy efforts and support the continued growth of Central Florida’s hospitality industry.
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Register Now: 2025 Patriot Day
Remembrance Breakfast
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Join us for the 2025 Patriot Day Remembrance Breakfast, taking place on Thursday, September 11, 2025.
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Held annually in September, this event commemorates the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and pays tribute to the local law enforcement, fire rescue, EMS, and hospitality security personnel who have gone above & beyond in the line of duty. This year’s program will feature Former NYPD Detective Walter Lynch.
📅 Date: Thursday, September 11, 2025
📍 Location: DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando
🏨 Address: 5780 Major Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM
💵 Registration: $55 per person or $550 for a Table of 10
👉 Click here to register
Secure your spot today and join us in honoring those who serve and protect our community!
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Visit Orlando’s Industry Insights Forum 2025
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Earlier this week, CFHLA and other top industry professionals came together for Visit Orlando's Industry Insights Forum 2025.
We heard from two dynamic keynote speakers during the Insights & Outlooks for the Future of Travel session. Economist Anirban Basu and Maria Henson of Visit Orlando delivered impactful presentations that explored the latest economic and tourism data shaping our region. Thank you again to Casandra Matej, President & CEO of Visit Orlando and the team for hosting this important industry insights forum.
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Partners in Action - Community Partners Serve Up Support at Cheney Elementary
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CFHLA thanks Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando Airport at Gateway Village and Hyatt House Orlando Airport for joining forces with CFHLA allied partner LandCare to support Cheney Elementary’s 5th grade graduating class!
Together, they served lunch to over 60 students, celebrating their milestone with love and community spirit. Special thanks to Chef Yvonne at Hyatt House Orlando for preparing a delicious meal for everyone.
Thank you to all our hospitality partners for showing that when we come together, our community thrives!
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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR
MEMBERS OF THE MONTH
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Meet our August Members of the Month
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To nominate a future CFHLA Allied and/or Lodging Member of the Month, please CLICK HERE.
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MEET THE SILVER PARTNER MEMBERS
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At Century Fire Protection, we believe in delivering superior customer service. Our adaptive approach to fire protection ensures every project begins by understanding our clients’ unique needs and ends with a client-centered solution that is not only functional but also helps our clients operate more successfully.
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Natura is a horticultural design, installation and maintenance firm delivering biophilic design elements. We care for PLANTS & PEOPLE within the built environment. We incorporate live plants, greenwall systems and holiday decor packages in the spaces where we live, work, learn and play.
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Check out the latest hospitality employment opportunities in Central Florida.
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About CFHLA
6675 Westwood Blvd #210, Orlando, FL 32821
The mission of the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association is to represent the Central Florida Hospitality Industry, by setting the standard of excellence through advocacy, collaboration, education, recognition, and service.
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