Liverpool businesses are jubilant as they describe the Eurovision events in the city as even better than anticipated, leading to a significant increase in footfall and economic benefits. With an estimated 500,000 visitors flocking to Liverpool during the Eurovision festivities between May 1-13, hotels, restaurants, and shops experienced a tremendous boost in business. According to early footfall data and figures from Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council reported a remarkable 32% growth in numbers at Liverpool ONE compared to the same period last year. Some days even saw increases as high as 53%, culminating in the busiest week of the year so far, with over 500,000 people visiting the bustling shopping center.
Local businesses, such as Merseymade, a hub for artists and makers, expressed their surprise at the overwhelming response. Vicky Gawith, the founder, revealed that their staffing levels and footfall were akin to the festive season, with Saturday marking their busiest day ever. The colorful costumes, sequins, and glitter of Eurovision created a vibrant atmosphere, and the opportunity to be part of such an event in Liverpool was cherished by all.
Hope Street Hotel, a renowned establishment in the city, had the privilege of accommodating delegations from the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain, along with various stars like Rita Ora, who utilized the hotel’s spa and delivered a medley of her hits during the contest’s semi-final. The hotel’s general manager, Fiona Creed, reported a 32% increase in business during the Eurovision period compared to the corresponding weeks in May of the previous year. She described the experience as beyond anyone’s expectations, stating that it had been truly fabulous.
Maray restaurant, situated on Albert Dock, experienced record-breaking sales during the Eurovision week. Rob Swift, the general manager, revealed that business was up by a third compared to a typical week, serving over 1,500 covers. Eurovision proved to be a saving grace for numerous businesses in the area, breathing new life into Liverpool’s docks and the city as a whole.
Steve Rotheram, the city region mayor, proudly declared that Liverpool had successfully hosted the most successful Eurovision Song Contest to date. The event generated an incredible buzz, with Rotheram expressing that he had never witnessed anything like it. He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on this success and leveraging it for the city’s benefit. Rotheram believed that showcasing the warmth and friendliness of Liverpool had left a lasting impression on the visitors, who had experienced the city’s unique charm firsthand. He anticipated an economic legacy of up to £250 million over the next two years for the city region.
Rotheram emphasized the need to seize the opportunities presented by increased tourism, attracting more businesses, and diversifying the local economy. He lauded Liverpool for embracing an event of such magnitude, showcasing its ability to host large-scale events brilliantly. Rotheram stressed that more significant events would be advantageous for the economy and the local population.
Bill Addy, the chief executive of Liverpool Business Improvement District (BID) Company, highlighted the prevailing sentiment of joy that will be the lasting memory of Eurovision in Liverpool. Businesses reported a noticeable upswing in customers seeking to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere. The BID Company worked closely with city center businesses, assisting with window dressing, artwork, karaoke displays, and language classes in preparation for the event. Addy emphasized that the impact of Eurovision extended beyond the two weeks of celebrations, as an estimated 160 million viewers watched the contest at home, contributing to the projected economic impact of £250 million over the next three years.
Overall, Liverpool’s business community celebrated the tremendous success of the Eurovision events, which surpassed expectations and delivered substantial economic benefits. The city’s ability
