2026 Open Championship set to double spending in Royal Birkdale
This week’s Open Championship at Royal Birkdale is set to double takings at businesses in the local area, according to data from Mastercard.
Last year’s edition at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland delivered a 119 per cent increase in spending within 5km of golf’s oldest major tournament, while the 2024 Open saw an 82 per cent bump within 3km of Royal Troon.
The hospitality industry is among the biggest winners. Spending in bars and restaurants around Portrush last year leapt 234 per cent and 95 per cent respectively, while at Troon spending on both more than doubled.
“As fans travel to Royal Birkdale to enjoy one of golf’s greatest Championships, the local hospitality sector is in for a bumper weekend,” said Mastercard UK and Ireland president Simon Forbes.
“From Australian tourists to B&B owners in Merseyside, live events bring people together. We’re proud to help businesses at these busy times, connecting them to tourists from all over the world with the tap of a card.”
Golf and sport among top draws in experience economy
Play began this morning at Royal Birkdale, where local Tommy Fleetwood is among the favourites to win the Claret Jug.
The Open attracts more than 250,000 spectators and many come from overseas, in particular from the United States – home of the defending champion Scottie Scheffler – and Australia. Spending on accommodation at the 2024 Open was up 44 per cent, Mastercard found.
It comes as Brits continue to spend more on experiences. The share of UK consumer spending on experiences, excluding travel, grew to 23.3 per cent, up from 22.3 per cent, last year, the payments giant said.
This increased spending is also a boost to the wider economy, with the 2025 Open credited with generating £89.2m in economic impact for Northern Ireland. The 2024 Open generated a similar amount, £87.3m, for Scotland.