Purpose:
This study was conducted to determine the economic impact of MLB Spring Training in Florida and the MLB Spring Training team operating, facilities, and concessions expenditures. The study calculated the overall economic impact, the number of jobs supported, and the associated wages paid for the state of Florida for all non-local attendees of MLB Florida Spring Training.
Methods:
During this study, the data gathered originated from 2,311 event attendee interviews across Spring Training games throughout Florida, attendance and expenditure figures from the MLB, and the tourism database at Downs & St. Germain Research. Total economic impact of 2018 MLB Spring Training on the state of Florida was a function of direct spending by visitors and the subsequent induced & indirect effects. IMPLAN models were used to calculate the economic multiplier. The Florida Sports Foundation desired information gathered on four different types of fans that attended the spring training games. The attendees were distinguished by their state residency and if the spring training games were their primary reason for visiting the area.
Results:
This results from this study produced a wide array of information ranging from the impact of team and fan spending to attendee demographics and behaviors. Study results showed that Spring Training in Florida culminated in an economic impact of $687,067,100 and supported 7,152 jobs & $253,799,400 in associated wages. By segmenting attendees, the Florida Sports Foundation determined what segments make up the largest part of spending and economic impact.
