- England's World Cup run is projected to deliver a £7.6 billion boost to the UK economy, with significant spending anticipated during the quarter-final match against Norway.
- The hospitality sector is expected to be a major beneficiary, with 6.7 million fans forecast to visit pubs and bars, generating £105 million in food and drink sales during the game.
- Retailers are also set to gain from 17.4 million people hosting or attending watch parties, leading to an estimated £280.3 million in home-viewing expenditure, primarily on food and drink.
- Previous matches have already shown an economic uplift, with payments data indicating a nearly 15 per cent increase in year-on-year hospitality spending during the group stage.
- While the World Cup provides a short-term boost, businesses are cautioned not to mistake it for a sustained recovery, as high operating costs and fragile consumer confidence remain challenges.
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