The Olympic Games in London proved to be hugely beneficial for the capital with higher tourism levels, an increase in business opportunities and higher spending recorded during the event and since. Now, it appears that the Commonwealth Games may have had just as strong an impact on Glasgow, with the host city noting a significant boost in footfall during the event.
During the Games, Glasgow’s footfall levels in major retail destinations saw a 21.9 per cent increase when compared to the same period a year earlier, indicating that consumers were buoyed by high spirits and eager to spend. Furthermore, the two weeks leading up to the opening ceremony saw footfall increase by 36.4 per cent.
Yet it is not only Glasgow which has seen a positive change in consumer mood, as Scotland as a whole was shown to have benefited in the latest data released by Springboard.
The country’s high streets, although not quite on a par with Glasgow, nevertheless noted a 13.8 per cent jump in year on year footfall levels, sparking hopes that Scotland’s economy will be strengthened by the Commonwealth Games’ legacy.
Marketing and insights director at Springboard, Diane Wehrle, says; “Shoppers have been out in force: historically, major sporting events have had a positive impact on footfall and the Commonwealth Games have been no exception.
“Footfall across Scotland is up 13.8 per cent year on year with Glasgow up 21.9 per cent over the same period.
“Whilst footfall across High Streets has been unpredictable this year, the Games has triggered a strong uplift which we anticipate is set to continue in the coming weeks into the August bank holiday weekend.”
Glasgow City Council executive member for jobs and the economy, Liz Cameron, says; “We are thrilled that not only has our great city been showcased to the globe, but that our high streets have benefitted from an influx of visitors.
“We are hopeful footfall will remain strong over the coming weeks as the legacy effect of the Games kicks in and look forward to a strong August bank holiday weekend on the horizon.”
With the independence referendum fast approaching, many Scottish businesses will be wondering exactly what the future holds no matter which way the public votes. Hopefully, the legacy left by the Commonwealth Games will be enough to see them through what could be extremely challenging times ahead.
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