Arrow boosts BC's economy to the tune of $360 million

BC has hit an economic bullseye thanks to The Warner Bros. Television show, Arrow.

In it’s five-year existence, the show has created more 7,000 jobs in BC according to a new economic study and “has contributed over $360 million to our province’s economy,” said Shirley Bonds, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training.

The report, by Canada’s MNP LLP, examined the fourth season of production to assess the economic impact of the production since the series started.

It found that in that season alone, the production spent $44.3 million on crew and labour, and $27.9 million on goods and services.

The report also found approximately 825 businesses from 31 communities across BC benefited from the series’ production, including 15 communities in Metro Vancouver and 14 communities from Vancouver Island, Thompson/ Okanagan, and the Mainland/Southwest regions.

“British Columbia has become the home for our superhero lineup, and we are thrilled with how the local communities have embraced these productions,” said Andrew Kreisberg, Executive Producer with Warner Bros. Entertainment in a statement.

“We have unbelievable talent and crews who work tirelessly to make this show the success that it is, not to mention a beautiful province to film in.”

For the uninitiated, Arrow revolves around hooded vigilante Oliver Queen – played by Canadian Stephen Amell – who fights crime in his home of Star City.

The show is “just one of today’s most popular television superhero series that call B.C. home, and demonstrate the many benefits of a sustainable incentive program that attracts investment, creates jobs and makes a positive impact on local business and communities,” said Wendy Noss, president of Motion Picture Association-Canada.

“Last September… I was able to tour the set of Arrow and see firsthand how the talented crew, designers, and artists bring this show to life,” said Bond. “I’m proud that British Columbia has become a key location for film and TV production in North America, and thank Warner Brothers for their continued investment and support in our province.”