GULF SHORES AND ORANGE BEACH, AL. – According to data released today by Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism (CVB), Alabama’s white-sand beaches gathered $69.8 million in lodging revenue during July 2011. This figure represents a 34.5 percent ($17.9 million) increase over July 2007 ($51.9 million), which is the previous benchmark year. On a similar note, gross retails sales for July 2011 ($94.8 million) also saw an increase of 17.9 percent ($14.3 million) over July 2007 ($80.4 million).

When comparing year-to-date lodging figures, the area is currently 22.2 percent above the same period for 2007.

“The Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan areas had a phenomenal July, and we are extremely grateful to all of the families that choose to spend their vacations along our white-sand beaches,” said Herb Malone, president/CEO of the CVB. “These numbers also show the tremendous growth that our area has seen in comparison to 2007, which is a testament to the united, synergistic effort among our tourism industry, government leaders and community.”

These lodging and retail figures contribute to the income of more than 40,000 Baldwin County residents, who are employed in travel-related jobs.

August lodging and retail tax figures are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

To see the complete report, go to www.agccvb.org/stats, and view the Lodging and Retail Revenue.