Hospitality to grow from ‘Flower Power’ festival

Hospitality trade is set to blossom in Canberra from Australia’s biggest celebration of spring – Floriade 2013 – themed Beautiful Innovation, the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) ACT Branch said today.

In a much-needed boost for the hospitality and tourism sector, more than 430,000 visitors are expected to visit Canberra, stay in local hotels and enjoy licensed venues for the 26th Floriade festival from September 14 to October 13, 2013.

AHA ACT Branch General Manager Brad Watts said while many local hospitality venues and hotels struggled through the winter downturn, venues were gearing up to welcome an influx of tourists over the next month.

“The economic and industry benefits of this world-famous festival are vital for the local hospitality sector – Floriade has a special ‘Flower Power’ effect on Canberra’s hospitality and tourism businesses,” Mr Watts said.

“While many leading hotels were still recovering from the recent downturn – with some reporting revenue falls of up to 50 per cent – hotels* are reporting steady booking rates for Floriade which is expected to build during the month-long festival.

“Local restaurants, pubs and other licensed venues will also strongly benefit from the annual arrival of leisure tourists.”

Mr Watts said the hospitality and hotel trade should also benefit later in the year from the National Gallery’s summer exhibition Gold and the Incas – featuring more than 200 works of intricate art, from jewellery and ceramic sculptures to gold pieces.

“It’s hoped visitation from Floriade and the NGA exhibition will trigger a turnaround for Canberra’s hospitality and tourism industry to enjoy a more profitable spring and summer period.”

*There are currently around 5000 hotel rooms available across the ACT – with more several new hotels rooms expected to be opened or under construction in late 2013.

Source: Australian Hotels Association ACT, 13 September 2013