The economic impact of international sports organisations in Switzerland 2008-2013

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the International Olympic Committee being headquartered in Lausanne. In conjunction with this milestone, the International Academy of Sports Sciences and Technology – the AISTS – has completed a study on the overall economic impact of the International Olympic Committee and other international sports organisations. The study concentrates on Switzerland, with emphasis on the Lausanne region and the Canton of Vaud. It spans the years 2008 to 2013 and consolidates data from 45 responding international sports organisations. Together, these organisations and their visitors spend an average of CHF 691 million within Switzerland each year. This spending generates CHF 379 million of additional impact on the Swiss economy, creating an average yearly economic impact of CHF 1.07 billion for Switzerland, CHF 0.55 billion for the Canton of Vaud and CHF 0.25 billion for the Lausanne region. This economic impact has a positive effect on employment, business tourism, and the construction sector. The impact goes well beyond what is tangible. Swiss residents are not only well aware of the presence of international sports organisations but also consider this presence important.