Impact of large events on consumer spending in local UK economies - January 2026

12th January 2026

Analysis of the impact of large events on UK consumer spending using Visa cardholder spending data.

New data capabilities allow us to understand the impact of events in greater detail, which helps to assure the quality of gross domestic product (GDP) estimates and better interpret and communicate their movements.

To illustrate these new data capabilities, this article explores card spending during three events: Taylor Swift's 2024 UK tour, Six Nations Championship rugby matches, and the temporary closure of Holyhead Port in Wales in December 2024.

Taylor Swift concerts had little impact on national consumer spending levels, though Wembley (postal district HA9) saw rises in international spend during concert months.

French and Irish cardholder spend increased in Cardiff (postal district CF10) during the Six Nations Championships between 2019 and 2025.

Irish and Northern Irish cardholder spend declined during the temporary closure of Holyhead Port between December 2024 and January 2025, while nearby ports saw an annual increase in Irish cardholder spend.

Read the full ONS report HERE