A record 24.7 million "music tourists" traveled to UK concerts and festivals last year, injecting an unprecedented £11.2 billion into the economy. This surge in music tourism had a significant impact on small businesses, with much of the money landing in the tills of hoteliers, restaurateurs, taxi firms, and independent traders far beyond the stadium gates.
The figures show attendance up 4.8 per cent on the previous year, with total spending rising 11.3 per cent from £10 billion. High-profile acts such as Oasis, Coldplay, Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, and Lana Del Rey drew large crowds, with the Oasis reunion being a major draw, marking the Gallagher brothers' first shows in 15 years.
Of the £11.2 billion spent, £5.7 billion was spent directly by fans on tickets, food and drink, merchandise, travel, and accommodation. A further £5.5 billion flowed through the supply chain, benefiting businesses such as fencing and security contractors, and restaurants stocking up for gig weekends.
The regional numbers demonstrate the significant impact a big tour can have on local trade. Oasis's five nights at Manchester's Heaton Park helped push music tourist spending in the North West up 15.6 per cent to £1.4 billion. In London, where the band played seven dates at Wembley, spending jumped 27.4 per cent to £3.4 billion.
The overseas market is growing rapidly, with foreign music tourists surging 26.8 per cent to 2.1 million, up from 1.6 million in the previous year. This growth is driven in part by several major artists playing only UK dates in Europe, attracting visitors who stay longer and spend more per head than domestic fans.
The music industry now supports 74,000 full-time equivalent jobs, with the gig economy driving high street trade. Data shows that Oasis concerts helped lift UK card spending last summer, with entertainment purchases hitting their busiest day of the year.
The government has announced measures to support the music industry, including a ban on ticket resale above face value, following a scandal over pricing for the Oasis tour. However, the boom is unevenly spread, with grassroots venues fighting for survival against rising energy bills, business rates, and National Insurance costs.
Despite the record year, concerns remain about the long-term sustainability of the music industry, with 43 UK festivals cancelled, postponed, or closed entirely. The challenge now is to keep the pipeline of future headliners alive and ensure that the benefits of the music industry are shared more widely.
