The buzz around Royal Birkdale is building – and it's not just about the golf! This week's Open Championship is set to be a shot in the arm for local businesses, with takings expected to DOUBLE. The stats are staggering: Mastercard's research suggests that consumer spending within 5km of the course will rocket, much like it did at previous Opens.
The hospitality sector is poised to tee off big time! Bars and restaurants surrounding the Open venues have consistently seen a spike in business. Take Royal Portrush last year – bar spending soared by a whopping 234% and restaurant takings rose by 95%. We saw similar numbers at Royal Troon in 2024, with more than double the usual spending on both fronts.
"The Open is a game-changer for local economies," says Simon Forbes, President of Mastercard UK and Ireland. "It brings people from all walks of life together – tourists, business owners, locals... everyone's a winner! And we're proud to be part of the team that makes these connections happen."
The Open is the ultimate draw for the UK's experience economy, attracting over 250,000 fans from far and wide. Americans and Aussies are among the most enthusiastic visitors, and they bring their spending power with them – accommodation bookings have shot up by a staggering 44% in recent years!
But it's not just about the short-term gains. The Open has a lasting impact on regional economies, generating millions for local businesses and employment. The 2025 event in Northern Ireland brought in £89.2 million, while Scotland reaped around £87.3 million from the 2024 tournament. This is more than just a golf tournament – it's an economic powerhouse!