An independent report into the economic impact of the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales has revealed that it generates more than £130M ($212.5M) a year for the city and nation and sustains more than 2,500 permanent jobs. Econactive Ltd.'s report, which was carried out for the Welsh Rugby Union, concluded that the financial benefits delivered by stadium events are highly significant within the context of Welsh tourism. Wales First Minister Carwyn Jones said, "The stadium is a key component of what Wales has to offer as a host of major events. The stadium has set its sights on attracting high profile events of global importance which have attracted more visitors from outside Wales." The report found that 70% of the visitor spend was non-local in origin, which represented a significant impact on the Welsh economy. Millennium Stadium attracts around 770,000 paying visitors each year to the main events such as int'l rugby and rock music concerts. Additionally, more than 50,000 people visit the venue annually for guided tours. The average spend per person by visitors from Wales was £54 ($88), with that rising to £195 ($319) for U.K. visitors and £370 ($605) for overseas visitors. During the 10-year period covered by the report, it is estimated that more than 2 million visits to the Stadium will come from non-locals (Welsh Rugby Union).
