On Tuesday, more than 2,320 paid visitors toured the museum, with the museum collecting $35,483 in admission sales and $12,045 in the gift shop. By comparison, an average day in April last year saw more than 998 paid visitors touring the museum and a total revenue of $22,770.
“We believe these single-day successes will translate into a record spring that will carry over into the summer,” said Patriots Point Development Authority (PPDA) Board Chairman Ray Chandler.
Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette released the following statement:
“We’re thrilled to see these numbers and it goes to show that our efforts are working. We attribute our success to several factors:
• With the support of the PPDA Board, we have developed an effective marketing program, targeting new markets in unique ways. Working in tandem with the Rawle Murdy Agency, our Marketing Department is implementing a comprehensive, strategic marketing plan that is effectively increasing audiences’ awareness of our museum.
• Success breeds success. We’re working hard each day to improve our product – just like any other business. We’re developing innovative new ways to experience history aboard our fleet of ships and we’re bringing history to life. We are introducing new tours, hosting exciting events and working hard to remain in the public view in a positive way.
• We’re made stronger by our partners in the Charleston tourism industry. The Charleston Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is doing an outstanding job of promoting the Lowcountry. As the “Top City in the U.S.” for the second year in a row, there are many reasons that people visit us. The diversity of attractions and activities found in Charleston is evidence that the tourism economy isn’t based on any one thing. We are pleased to be a part of the greater Charleston experience.
• Economic recovery. The numbers posted yesterday are indicative of hopeful signs of recovery. We wouldn’t have dreamed of seeing these numbers five years ago and they’re part of a growing positive trend that we hope will continue.
With the marked increase in attendance in revenue, we’re on track to achieve the goals set forth in our Three Year Business Plan, and to develop a new museum experience, with an additional 40,000 tickets sold annually by 2016.”