Key facts
- The 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale is projected to double local business spending.
- Mastercard data shows previous Opens at Royal Portrush and Royal Troon resulted in significant spending increases.
- Spending in bars and restaurants around Royal Portrush increased by 234% and 95% respectively.
- Spending on accommodation at the 2024 Open rose by 44%.
- The 2025 Open generated £89.2m in economic impact for Northern Ireland, and the 2024 Open generated £87.3m for Scotland.
The 2026 Open Championship, scheduled to be held at Royal Birkdale, is anticipated to significantly boost local businesses, potentially doubling spending in the area, according to data from Mastercard. This projection follows similar economic impacts observed at previous tournaments. Last year's Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland saw a 119% increase in spending within a 5km radius, while the 2024 event at Royal Troon recorded an 82% rise in spending within 3km.
The hospitality sector is expected to be a major beneficiary. At Royal Portrush, spending in bars and restaurants surged by 234% and 95% respectively. Similarly, spending on these services more than doubled around Royal Troon. Simon Forbes, President of Mastercard UK and Ireland, highlighted the event's role in bringing people together and supporting businesses by connecting them with global tourists.
This trend aligns with a broader increase in UK consumer spending on experiences, excluding travel, which grew to 23.3% last year. The economic impact of the Open Championship is substantial, with the 2025 event generating £89.2 million for Northern Ireland and the 2024 event contributing £87.3 million to Scotland's economy. Golfers Tommy Fleetwood and Scottie Scheffler are mentioned in relation to the tournament.