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Airbnb contributes $653M boost to Montreal

By HUB SmartCoverage Team on August 24th, 2018

Airbnb is being hailed for its benefit to the Quebec economy after a recent study revealed the positive impact the home sharing platform has had in Montreal.

The study, conducted by GLS Réseaux on behalf of Airbnb showed a whopping $653 million in spending through its operations in the city last year. An additional boost was contributed with the total spending habits of travellers staying in Airbnb hosts amounting to $475 million-higher than both Toronto and Vancouver.

The San Francisco based company now boasts 13,000 hosts in Montreal, all of whom provided accommodation for over 283,000 travelling groups.

While Airbnb has received negative press in the past, particularly in Vancouver and Toronto, where the community is being held to blame as a key player in a difficult housing market, the recent figures reveal a different picture for Montreal.

"The numbers clearly show Airbnb is having a meaningful impact on Montreal's local economy," said Rémy Gauthier, President at GLS Réseaux. "Spending by Airbnb hosts and guests is supporting jobs and generating new income for local neighbourhoods outside traditional tourist areas."

Not only has Airbnb boosted tourism income in the city, in 2017 Airbnb in Montreal directly supported more than 3,300 jobs and contributed to over $20 million public insurance programs, pension and social services. The company also has its ‘Luxury Retreats’ headquarters in Montreal, generating 350 jobs for residents.

"The benefits of Airbnb go far beyond everyday people sharing their homes," said Alex Dagg, Director of Public Policy for Airbnb in Canada. "Airbnb guests visit stores, coffee shops and restaurants in the neighbourhoods where they're staying - which supports local businesses and helps create jobs in the community."

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