Mining Convention Brings Lode Of Business Annual Gathering Pumps $2.2 Million Into Spokane’s Economy

Spokane merchants and restaurants look forward to the annual Northwest Mining Association Convention nearly as much as the Inland Northwest mining community.

The convention, which kicks off Monday with registration and exhibitor setup in the Spokane Convention Center, is the largest annual gathering in the city, said Martha Lou Wheatley of Spokane’s Convention and Visitors Bureau. More than 3,000 delegates are expected at this year’s meeting.

The mining convention anchors the city’s December convention lineup, Wheatley said.

“The surprising thing is that (in other cities) December is typically a very slow month in the business,” she said. “But we have seven conventions this month and it’s always strong for us.”

The mining convention is important to local merchants for another reason. It draws mostly executives and professionals, who spend more money than many conventioneers.

December conventions are expected to inject $4.1 million into the economy, with the mining convention accounting for $2.2 million of that total.

“Stores count on the mining convention as a big part of their Christmas shopping season,” Wheatley said. “These mining delegates are well-paid people, and they often bring spouses and family members.”

Upscale restaurants often fare the best during the convention week, she said.

Convention delegates usually fill up the tables at Ankeny’s at the Ridpath Hotel, said manager Dan Zimmerer. The private dining room is booked most of this upcoming week with delegates.

“We have a good time with them,” he said. “The convention sure helps us, because our private dining room usually isn’t that booked.”

The 101st edition of the convention has the usual elements that make it one of the largest mining gatherings in the nation, said Tim Olson, executive director of the Spokane-based association.

Courses and speakers will cover technical, environmental and political issues in the industry. More than 300 exhibitors will display new products.

Mining executives also like to party, Olson said with a smirk. Receptions and social events dot the upcoming week.

“It’s going to be a great meeting,” he said.

, DataTimes