WNC Craft Economy

WNC CRAFT ECONOMY A $206.5 million industry A 2008 study assesed the direct economic impact of craft in the 25 counties of Western North Carolina. By surveying the many sectors of the craft community, the study provides a snapshot of the impact of craft on our region. Craft Suppliers and Publishers Craft Artists 7.3% Craft Schools and Organizations 41.7% 7.8% 15.2% Craft Consumer 27.9% Craft Galleries PROFILE OF A CRAFT CONSUMER WOMEN 82% are Female EDUCATED 72% are College Graduates MIDDLE-AGED HIGH INCOME 61% are between 46 and 65 57% make more than $75,000 35 25 30 20 25 15 20 15 10 10 25 CRAFT TOURISM 62% of regional craft sales are to tourists or visitors is the average spending on goods and services per WNC visit. 56% of craft consumers $642 stay in the area over- night. 38% of spending goes toward craft purchases with the remainder going toward lodging, food and transportation. The average length of stay is 3.7 nights. Data Source: 2008 study on the Economic Impact of the Craft Industry in Western North Carolina $100k-$125k $125k-5150k $150k-$175k