Liverpool businesses have reported “footfall like Christmas” due to an expected 500,000 Eurovision guests.
The “most successful Eurovision Song Contest” in Liverpool boosted hotels, restaurants, and stores.
Loreen of Sweden won Saturday’s grand final.
Steve Rotheram claimed Liverpool may gain £250m in economic benefits over the following two years.
The city hosted the event for war-torn Ukraine.
Liverpool City Council stated early footfall statistics and Merseyside Police numbers showed up to 500,000 additional visitors during EuroFestival from 1-13 May.
Liverpool ONE had more over 500,000 visitors last week, making it the biggest week of the year, according to the city council. Some days witnessed 53% rises.
Merseymade creator Vicky Gawith stated they were “busier than they imagined” due to the tournament.
She stated it was unmatched.
“We had staffing levels and footfall of Christmas, and Saturday was the busiest day ever.”
“Great” outfits, sequins, and glitter, she remarked.
“We’re just so pleased; so lucky… it was here in Liverpool and we were able to be part of it,” Ms Gawith said.
The Netherlands, Poland, and Spain delegations slept in the city’s Hope Street Hotel, as did Rita Ora, who performed a medley of her classics at the contest’s semi-final.
The EuroFestival increased business by 32%, according to general manager Fiona Creed.
It exceeded expectations. She said it was great.
Maray on Albert Dock reported “record sales” last week.
The Middle-Eastern restaurant’s general manager, Rob Swift, claimed business was up a third on a typical week.
“It was easily the busiest week we have ever had [with] over 1,500 covers which is fantastic,” he added.
“Eurovision saved many dockside and Liverpool businesses.”
Mr. Rotheram called Liverpool the “most successful Eurovision Song Contest ever”.
It “had been unbelievable… I’ve never felt a buzz like it” and should capitalize on its success.
Visitors “seen and heard and experienced what we know about this great place that we live in, that it is one of the most warm and friendliest places on the planet,” he added.
The metro mayor remarked “the winners in the end are the people of Liverpool because we have been able to showcase just what a wonderful place this is”.
He added the city region’s economic legacy “could be as great as £250m” in two years.
He stated “we need to build on that… to optimise on the opportunities that that brings to us” since the city will draw more tourists.
He said “attracting more businesses and diversifying our economy”.
Liverpool’s adoption of this suggests that additional things may come here.
We’ve done big events well.
“More large-scale events are good for the economy and local people.”
Liverpool Business Improvement District (BID) Company CEO Bill Addy stated Eurovision in Liverpool would be remembered fondly.
“[Businesses are] telling us they have seen a real boost in people coming in and just wanting to enjoy the atmosphere,” he added.
We’ve worked with city center companies on everything from window decorating and artwork to karaoke displays and language training, so it’s fantastic to see it pay off.
“We know Eurovision’s impact isn’t purely in the two weeks of celebrations, but for the 160m people watching at home and the projected economic impact of £250m over the next three years.”
