Football enthusiasts are projected to spend a groundbreaking £3.8 billion during the upcoming World Cup event, with pubs expected to serve over 58 million pints. The unveiling of Thomas Tuchel’s 26-player England squad has ignited hope among devoted fans, despite notable exclusions. Meanwhile, Scotland has already disclosed its roster.
As the football spectacle in the United States, Mexico, and Canada approaches in under three weeks, businesses in the UK are anticipating a significant increase in sales. A forecast by VoucherCodes.co.uk suggests that up to £3.8 billion could be injected into the economy during the 37-day tournament, contingent on the progress of England and Scotland. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is poised to witness potential economic benefits from the surge, supporting England’s skipper Harry Kane and the team.
This year’s projected expenditure surpasses the £2.75 billion spent during the 2024 Men’s Euros and the £2 billion boost from the 2022 World Cup, which was impacted by the winter schedule. The only event that comes close is the 2020 Euros, reaching £3.52 billion due to heightened football enthusiasm during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite an anticipated decrease in viewership due to late match kick-off times, VoucherCodes.co.uk estimates that 34.9 million fans in the UK will tune in to watch the tournament from various venues over the five-week competition, slightly lower than the viewership for the last men’s Euros.
Retail establishments, including supermarkets, are poised to benefit the most from the World Cup spending spree, with an estimated £2.9 billion in sales projected. Additionally, the hospitality sector is expected to receive a £900 million boost, with 12.4 million individuals anticipated to watch games in pubs and other venues. Pubs are expected to be the preferred viewing location, with 82% of respondents planning to watch at least one match there.
During the tournament, fans are expected to consume 58.5 million pints of beer, equivalent to 11 Olympic-size swimming pools. The British Beer and Pub Association forecasts a potential revenue of £275 million for pubs, with an average increase of 1,240 pints per pub.
Emma McClarkin, BBPA’s chief executive, highlighted the positive impact of the World Cup on British pubs and brewers, emphasizing the communal spirit and excitement that come with watching matches together. She encouraged support for local pubs and national teams during the summer event.
While pubs are expected to benefit significantly, supermarkets are projected to rake in an estimated £1.95 billion in sales. The report also anticipates substantial spending on new TVs, electronics, team merchandise, and outdoor equipment.
Late match schedules pose a risk of increased absenteeism, with over a quarter of fans admitting they might consider taking a day off.
