Country USA Business Boost
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Businesses around the Oshkosh area get a boost from the outdoor country concert. Video by nbc26.com
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OSHKOSH, WI – Country USA is bringing in big bucks for businesses in Oshkosh. Millions of dollars are pouring in for hotels, gas stations and campgrounds. And the economic impact is expected to grow throughout the weekend.
“This is just another opportunity for hundreds of thousands of people to come into the city who normally wouldn't think of stopping,” said Marty Schibbelhut, owner of OshVegas Campground and store.
He explained, they prepare for Country USA months in advance.
"For those people who don't think it's a good thing to have events like that in the city of Oshkosh, it's really good for the economy around here," he said.
They sell more in this one week, than six months of regular camping season. And campers themselves feel the business boost.
"There's twice as many people here as what there are in the actually city of Oshkosh, it's a big boom for all the business around here,” said R.J. Fleigle who came for the concert from Waukesha.
This is a common theme throughout the city for stores, restaurants and other businesses.
"It effects and impacts all of those things here in Oshkosh," Brittani VonRuden, Marketing Director with the Oshkosh Visitor's Bureau.
She said the concert helps brand the city, “Wisconsin's Event City”.
“Last year, travelers spent over $200 million here in Oshkosh," said VonRuden. And $13 million comes from Country USA alone.
VonRuden explained Country USA, Rock USA and the EAA Convention are the three big summer activities that bring in the most money to the Oshkosh area.
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