G7 is anticipated to energize the economy and increase hotel occupancy in Calgary

G7 is anticipated to energize the economy and increase hotel occupancy in Calgary and nearby mountain communities.

The upcoming G7 leaders' summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, is expected to significantly boost the local economy, particularly in the hospitality sector. The summit, taking place from June 15 to 17, will draw thousands of delegates, journalists, and security personnel to the area, with an estimated 10,000 hotel room bookings.

Calgary, which will host much of the summit's support infrastructure, is already seeing a substantial increase in demand for accommodations, with hotels in the city and surrounding mountain towns filling up quickly. The event is projected to generate approximately $190 million for the Calgary region and $240 million for Alberta's economy.

The Calgary Hotel Association reports that the summit will lead to an estimated 45,000 hotel room nights, with security services accounting for about 2½ times the initially planned amount. This has led to a scramble for accommodation options, with some visitors turning to alternative lodgings such as university residences. Both Mount Royal University and the University of Calgary have made their residence buildings available for the summit's personnel.

The summit coincides with other major conferences in the area, including the Global Energy Show and the Rotary International Convention, which is adding to the demand for accommodations. However, tourism officials in Canmore and Kananaskis are optimistic about the impact, with hotels reporting full capacity and restaurants seeing higher-than-average bookings for the typically quieter shoulder season.

The Calgary Chamber of Commerce anticipates the summit will provide a substantial boost to the local economy, not only through increased spending by visitors but also by raising the area's international profile. This comes as a welcome boost for local businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. The summit's location in the picturesque Rocky Mountains is also seen as an excellent opportunity to promote tourism in the region.

Leaders from the G7 nations, including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Canada, as well as representatives from the European Union, will attend the summit. The event's focus on international cooperation and key global issues is expected to bring significant media attention to the area.

The increased economic activity from the G7 summit, combined with other large events happening in the area, is expected to create strong momentum for local businesses in the hospitality sector and beyond. This positive outlook is being embraced by many in the region as an opportunity to showcase Alberta's beauty and capabilities to a global audience.