The Division has published its 2012 Annual Report as required by statute. The report notes that North Carolina’s tourism industry outpaced the national growth rate and achieved record performance in 2012, with visitor spending increasing in each of the state’s 100 counties and resulting in an all-time high $19.4 billion in direct spending. Spending by travelers directly supported 193,610 jobs with a payroll of $4.39 billion and generated $1.549 billion in state and local tax revenues for reinvestment in communities all across North Carolina. Partnerships with destinations, attractions, lodging and dining properties and associations statewide remain key to North Carolina’s success. Despite a marketing budget ranking 27th among the 50 states, effective collaboration within the tourism industry contributed to North Carolina maintaining its position as the nation’s sixth most-visited state. The report includes detailed results for all Division programs. The Division’s Strategic Plan is also available online.