Visitors spend a lot on food, study finds

Vacation rental giant Airbnb released a study Thursday reporting that its guests on Oahu spent $41 million eating out within the past year.

The online shared economy site, which markets privately owned accommodations, is likely to use results of this study to help it move past last year’s veto of their tax collection bill.

In July, Gov. David Ige vetoed Bill 1850, which would have allowed short-term accommodations brokers, such as Airbnb, to act as tax collection agents for the state. Ige said the bill “provided a shield for owners who choose not to comply with county laws.” Given Hawaii’s concerns over affordable housing and homelessness, Ige said he did not want to encourage illegal vacation rental growth.

“Airbnb serves a vital role in supporting local businesses around the islands and helping everyday Hawaii locals make ends meet. We’re grateful that policy makers and industry leaders have recognized this fact as we continue to explore our options for the coming legislative session,” Cynthia Wang, Airbnb public policy manager, said in a statement.

Airbnb’s new analysis, which was conducted in 36 cites across the world, reveals that most Airbnb tourism dollars are spent dining out. Airbnb guests on Oahu and in the rest of these cities contributed $4.5 billion in restaurants, the company said.

“The foot traffic and positive economic impact Airbnb’s community brings to Oahu restaurants, coffee shops and bakeries are truly outstanding,” Wang said.

In Hawaii, Airbnb estimates that its guests spend an average of $274 per day.