It’s no surprise to find that major sporting events attract visitors, increase demand for hotel rooms, and improve rates. But it’s certainly not quite as obvious why Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement should have the same effect in Manchester…
London: Champions League Final
Hotel prices in London have increased by 63% this Saturday 25 May, according to the) reported monthly by hotel comparison website www.trivago.co.uk.
On the same day that Wembley Stadium will welcome 90,000 visitors to the UEFA Champions League Final, one night in London will cost an average of £281. This is a £108 increase from the monthly average of £173 per night.
Hotel prices have also increased the day preceding the Champions League Final. One night on Friday 24th May will cost an average of £224, which is a 30% increase from the monthly average. The day following the Champions League Final, hotel prices decrease by 48% to an average of £145, despite this being a Bank Holiday in the UK.
Fergie’s followers flock to Manchester?
lastminute.com reports that it has seen a 30% surge in Manchester hotel bookings. The unexpected year on year increase has been attributed to the announcement of Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
The average booking value for hotel stays on 12 May, when Sir Alex is due to make his final appearance as manager on the United home ground, is also up by 11% with the value of Saturday night bookings up 39%.
Mark Maddock, Managing Director of lastminute.com UK and Ireland comments; “Our booking trends suggest that fans are seizing the last chance to see Sir Alex as Manchester United manager. Hotel booking values for the weekend of the 12 May also suggest loyal supporters are keen to honour Sir Alex’s managerial swan song with a memorable night’s stay.”
Meanwhile in Brighton…
It’s good to see that culture also has a positive impact. trivago Hotel Price Index (tHPI) reports that the Brighton Festival has resulted in a prices increase of 19%.
Brighton Festival is England’s largest art festival, taking place between Saturday 4 and Sunday 26 May and welcoming over 200,000 visitors. Hotel prices have increased by 19% in Brighton this month, making it the third most expensive popular UK destination, after London and Edinburgh.