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Western New York’s hospitality and tourism sector is thriving, with travelers spending a record-breaking $3.7 billion in 2023, an 11% increase over the previous year, according to Oxford Economics. This growing industry fuels local businesses, creates jobs, and strengthens Buffalo Niagara’s economy—but sustaining that momentum requires strategic innovation and careful balance.

On January 30, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership convened top industry leaders at the Hospitality & Tourism Industry Leaders Forum (ILF) to discuss the future of travel and sustainability in our region.

The Challenge: Growth vs. Sustainability

As destinations worldwide compete to attract visitors, the industry faces a dual challenge:
How do we continue to grow Buffalo Niagara’s tourism economy while preserving its cultural and natural heritage?
What local, national, and international trends will shape the future of hospitality in WNY?

Expert Insights from Industry Leaders

A distinguished panel of hospitality and tourism executives shared their perspectives on the sector’s most pressing opportunities and challenges:

• Tom Barney, SVP & Treasurer, Delaware North
• Karen Fashana, VP of Marketing & Communications, Visit Buffalo Niagara
• Andrea Czopp, COO, Destination Niagara Falls
• Sara Capen, Executive Director, Niagara Falls National Heritage Area

Their discussion explored strategies for sustaining growth, enhancing visitor experiences, and ensuring long-term economic impact while balancing tourism with responsible environmental and cultural stewardship.

Why It Matters

Buffalo Niagara’s hospitality and tourism industry plays a critical role in the region’s economic vitality, supporting businesses across multiple sectors. In 2023, Niagara Falls State Park attracted nearly 9.5 million visitors.  Additionally, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum welcomed approximately 325,000 visitors in its inaugural year following expansion, setting a 50-year attendance record. These premier attractions significantly bolster the local economy, underscoring the importance of strategic adaptation and collaboration among industry leaders to maintain Buffalo Niagara as a top-tier destination.

As employers, let's continue these topics of discussion in our organizations to continue the vital momentum of tourism.

As the ILF series continues, BNP will bring together executives across manufacturing, healthcare, energy, finance, and more to tackle sector-specific sustainability challenges and uncover new opportunities for economic growth.

Stay tuned for insights from upcoming ILF sessions. Want to be part of the conversation? Learn more about BNP’s Industry Leaders Forum here.