San Diego Projects Record Medical Meetings in 2017, $1.1B in Regional Impact

January 23, 2017

The San Diego Convention Center Corporation is forecasting a record-breaking calendar year in 2017 for medical meetings.

A total of 21 medical events, including BIO 2017, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Association of Diabetes, will hold their annual events in San Diego during the next 12 months: that's the highest number of medical meetings ever in a calendar year.

"The upcoming year will be one of our strongest ever for medical meetings," said Clifford "Rip" Rippetoe, CFE, President and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center Corporation.

He added, "Medical meetings are key to San Diego's success as a premiere meeting and convention destination. Our region is a hotspot for research, education and the biotech industry. In calendar year 2017, medical meetings account for 27 percent of total attendance and 53 percent of our regional impact."

The economic benefits from the medical meetings alone are estimated to account for 53 percent of the convention center's estimated $1.1 billion in regional impact that will be generated between January and December of 2017.

Here's a fun fact: The forecasted attendance of 219,275 for 2017 medical meetings is more than the populations of the cities of Escondido and Encinitas combined.

This calendar year, a total of 62 citywide conventions will take place. The City of San Diego benefits from each event, because the hotel and sales tax revenue that results form these conventions goes directly to the city's general fund.

In 2017, that number will be an estimated $24.4 million. Convention attendees are projected to generate approximately $653.5 million in direct attendee spending.

Currently, center events are projected to account for 769,282 hotel room nights in 2017.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.