Spending in the centre of Cardiff was significantly boosted by this summer’s series of concerts.
Data from retail analysts Beauclair shows that city centre sales reached £44.1m in July alone, marking a 15.6% increase compared to the same time last year. The data reflects the impact of the comprehensive programme of gigs across venues including the Principality Stadium, Cardiff Castle and Blackweir Fields. Acts including Oasis, the Pet Shop Boys and Alanis Morissette.
Entertainment sector sales rose 231.2%, to £4.69m, with food and drink sales 20.1% up year-on-year at £18m.
Some 33.4% of the overall spend was generated by Cardiff residents, with a further 32.8% from those living outside of the capital, but within the other nine authority areas of south Wales making up the Cardiff Capital Region.
Spend from non Welsh Ƶ residents was up 67% to £9.7m, whilst spending from non Cardiff Capital Region Welsh residents climbed 41% to £5.2m.
FOR Cardiff, the city centre business improvement district, said the figures backed up what its member businesses have experienced on the ground.
Carolyn Brownell, executive director of FOR Cardiff, said: “This summer has been nothing short of transformative for Cardiff and we expect the data for August to show a similar uplift to what we see here for July.
"Major shows drive demand across the city – from increased bookings for taxis and hotels, to extra shifts for hospitality staff, to new business for local suppliers, security teams, and event crews.
"They also help introduce first-time visitors to Cardiff, many of whom return for other breaks, business events, or future gigs. This kind of city-wide economic ripple effect turns cultural moments into long-term gains for Cardiff’s foundation economy.”
Becca Thomas, co-founder of Bacareto, and independent bar and restaurant in the city centre said: “This summer of music in Cardiff has been fantastic for us. We’ve really benefited from the influx of visitors to the city, as well as more visits from our regulars. Everyone has been excited to enjoy the gigs so the vibes have been great, and it’s been a chance to show off the city. The business has also seen a huge benefit, which is so important at a very tough moment for hospitality in general.”
The concerts also provided a major boost to the city’s hotel sector.
Karen Matthews, general manager of the Radisson Blu Cardiff, and member of Cardiff and District Hoteliers Association, said: “We’ve seen an increase in guests coming to Cardiff not just for a night, but for long weekends built around major events.
"People are booking ahead, staying for two or three nights, and exploring the city in between gigs. From a hospitality perspective, it’s a huge opportunity, and one that Cardiff is now perfectly placed to capitalise on.”
Nick Saunders, founder of Depot Live (organisers of the Cardiff Castle and Blackweir Live events) said: “Bringing live music to the heart of Cardiff is always special, but what’s blown me away this summer is seeing the knock-on effect it’s had. It shows just how powerful events can be in shaping the life of a capital. We’re proud that the gigs at the Castle and Blackweir have played a part in that story - it’s been incredible to watch Cardiff shine on such a big stage.”
A series of concerts with headline acts are planned for summer 2026.
